Thailand-
The Thai government has announced a plan to temporarily lift the ban on double-decker buses along six steep and high-risk routes, allowing operations for 180 days beginning July 21st, under strict safety regulations. The move, overseen by the Department of Land Transport (DLT), aims to assess whether enhanced safety protocols can enable safer use of these vehicles on challenging terrain.
The six routes now open to double-decker buses include Highway No. 4 (Khao Phap Pha to Phatthalung), Highway No. 103 (Mae Yang Ho to Mae Teeb), Highway No. 118 (Chiang Mai to Doi Nang Kaew), Highway No. 2013 (Bo Pho to Khok Ngam), Highway No. 2331 (Cho Hoa to Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park), and Highway No. 1256 (Pua to Doi Phu Kha National Park). These roads were previously restricted due to steep inclines and accident history involving large vehicles.
Operators must meet several safety conditions before using the routes. Buses must pass a comprehensive inspection at the DLT or provincial offices, with special attention given to braking systems, including air brakes. Drivers are required to complete a two-hour online training course on operating large vehicles on steep slopes. Strict compliance with posted speed limits is mandatory throughout all segments of the permitted routes.
During the 180-day period, the DLT will monitor operations and evaluate the impact of these safety measures. The department is also developing a two-way GPS communication system to enable real-time tracking and improve oversight of bus movements along the approved corridors.
Highway No. 304, between Kabin Buri Intersection and Wang Nam Khiao, will remain closed to double-decker buses due to ongoing safety risks and a consistently high accident rate. Authorities have stated that the temporary relaxation will be continuously reviewed and adjusted based on actual operating conditions and safety data.
Source: Thai National News Bureau
