Mallika stresses!! Transport Co. tightens safety for buses and drivers, raising transport ministry standards to ensure confidence in all public transport journeys.
Ms. Mallika Chirapanwanich, Deputy Minister of Transport, revealed that she has instructed the Transport Co., Ltd. (Transport Co.) to advance public bus safety by regularly checking driver readiness, maintaining buses to ensure operational condition, and strictly supervising bus operation standards for the company and affiliated operators on all routes. This is especially important during the long holiday for National Father's Day from 5–7 December 2025, when passenger volume is expected to be high. Preparations are also underway for the upcoming New Year 2026 holiday travel to provide convenience, comfort, and safety to the public, with the following safety measures to be implemented.
1. All Transport Co. buses undergo vehicle condition inspections by the Department of Land Transport every six months, twice a year. Additionally, Transport Co. has an experienced maintenance team responsible for regular bus upkeep and inspection of all onboard equipment to ensure buses are ready before serving passengers each time.
2. Driver readiness is checked: for routes exceeding 400 kilometers, two drivers are assigned to alternate driving shifts. Annual health checks are required, along with safety driving and service skills training to enhance service understanding, foster positive attitudes, build customer service awareness, and raise service standards to satisfy passengers.
3. Drivers and onboard attendants are instructed to prioritize passenger safety by informing passengers about safety details, including fastening seat belts in all seats before departure, emergency exit usage, fire extinguisher locations, and using the glass-breaking hammer in emergencies.
4. Staff from the Accident Prevention Unit, Passenger Protection Division, regularly inspect Transport Co. and affiliated buses at five Bangkok passenger terminals: Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak) or Mo Chit 2, Ekkamai, Sai Tai (Borommaratchachonnani), Pinklao, and the Small Bus Terminal (Chatuchak). They check vehicle conditions such as smoke emissions, cleanliness, tire condition, onboard equipment, seat belts, fire extinguishers, glass-breaking hammers, and vehicle documents including logbooks. They also inspect driver readiness by testing for drugs, measuring alcohol levels, verifying driving licenses, and checking attire.
“However, I emphasize that Transport Co. must continuously implement these safety measures, prioritizing the safety of passengers’ lives and property, to ensure passengers can confidently use the service throughout the upcoming New Year travel period,” Ms. Mallika concluded.
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