Traffic on Mittraphap Road through Sikhiu District, Nakhon Ratchasima, is heavy but still moving well as people gradually return to Bangkok after the long New Year holiday. Traffic volume is expected to increase further in the evening at peak hours.
A reporter observed traffic conditions on Mittraphap Road heading toward Bangkok around 16:00 today (2 Jan 2026). People are steadily returning to work after New Year celebrations, resulting in heavy traffic on the inbound side near the Skill Development Institute 5, Nakhon Ratchasima, and near Mo Chabok in front of the Provincial Waterworks Authority in Sikhiu. Although traffic is dense, it remains smooth without congestion, allowing speeds of approximately 100-110 kilometers per hour. Many travelers are returning early to avoid weekend traffic jams during the final days of the extended New Year holiday.
The road is mostly straight but includes a steep incline near Mo Chabok, requiring drivers to slow down when ascending or descending, traveling at about 80-100 kilometers per hour. Vehicles on the road include private cars, pickup trucks, some passenger buses and cargo trucks, and motorcycles. Most motorcyclists ride on the shoulder to avoid obstructing the main lanes, although some ride in the middle of the road, which poses significant safety risks.
Additionally, junctions, intersections, and turning points are areas prone to collision accidents. Highway police emphasize that drivers should exercise extra caution. Vehicles on the main road should reduce speed to allow sufficient stopping distance if a vehicle emerges from a side street. Drivers must be vigilant for smaller vehicles such as motorcycles and motorcycle sidecars, which may swerve from the shoulder into the main lanes to avoid roadside obstacles. Those entering from side streets or making turns or U-turns should remain patient and avoid cutting closely in front of oncoming traffic. They must ensure there is enough distance to safely merge, cross, or turn to protect the safety of all road users.
Traffic volume is expected to increase significantly this evening.
