Siripong admits the train driver was negligent during the incident and orders strict, comprehensive drug testing for all transport system employees. He denies this is a case of closing the stable after the horse has bolted. Regarding measures to ban trains from running into inner Bangkok, he is open to hearing public opinion.
At 10:30 a.m. on 21 May 2026 at the Parliament, a House of Representatives session was held presided over by Sopon Sarum, Speaker of the House. The session considered a question raised by Sangkhom Daengchoti, Member of Parliament for Prachuap Khiri Khan from the Bhumjaithai Party, who questioned Transport Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn about the incident where a freight train collided with a bus at the Asok-Din Daeng intersection, resulting in 8 fatalities. He highlighted shortcomings in safety management within the public transport system, asking for clear details about the status of barriers and signaling systems, why the train could not stop in time, and emphasizing that blaming the bus for blocking the tracks alone is insufficient. He inquired about drug testing measures, enforcement mechanisms for banning train operation if barriers fail, plans to ban trains entering inner Bangkok, and compensation measures for victims.
Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angkasakulkit, speaking on behalf of the Minister, explained that the train involved was traveling at 34 kilometers per hour, below the normal speed limit of 40 km/h. Before the incident, a yellow signal had warned the train to slow down at Makkasan station. At the moment of collision, the speed was 18 kilometers per hour. Investigations found the train driver negligent in operation and later tested positive for multiple drugs. The State Railway of Thailand has suspended the driver and formed a committee to investigate the facts. This is unacceptable. Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn has ordered stringent drug testing across all public transport personnel, not just random checks, emphasizing this is not a reactive measure but a continuation of ongoing policy. Previously, testing was random, but now comprehensive screening is enforced. Initial results show an increase in drivers testing positive, though formal hospital tests are pending. The minister affirmed that negligence on this issue will not be tolerated.
Siripong added that regarding questions about freight trains running only at night between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., the train involved was scheduled for a 11 p.m. run on 15 May but was delayed by 900 minutes, resulting in daytime operation when the accident occurred. On studying the ban of trains entering inner Bangkok, officials are open to public feedback about the added burdens, delays, and train changes this may cause, aiming to find solutions that minimize risks. This is seen as a short-term measure. Medium-term plans include integrating signaling systems among the State Railway, Bangkok authorities, and traffic police, utilizing technology systems. Long-term plans envision an entirely elevated rail system, reserving roads below exclusively for vehicles. Regarding compensation, both the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority and the State Railway are expediting support and visiting the injured. They apologize and care for all affected, providing compensation ranging from 130,000 to 1 million baht for injuries, and 2.39 million baht per fatality.