As the Songkran festival approaches, Bangkok’s bus services are experiencing a surge in travel as people make their way back to their hometowns. The Transport Company Limited (BKS), Thailand’s state-owned bus operator, has witnessed a significant increase in passenger journeys, with over 123,000 trips to and from Bangkok recorded on Thursday alone.
Anticipating an even busier day on Friday, the last working day before the extended Thai New Year holiday, BKS is bracing for a peak in the Songkran travel rush. Acting managing director Chatchawan Promratham stated that an estimated 130,000 passengers are expected to depart Bangkok on outbound services today, utilizing a total of 5,000 bus trips operated by BKS, joint operators, and vans.
To meet the heightened demand, approximately 1,000 extra non-scheduled buses have been deployed to accommodate the influx of travelers. Yesterday’s statistics revealed that 77,759 passengers left Bangkok, while 45,538 returned, totaling 123,297 individuals utilizing 6,628 services comprising outbound and return bus journeys.
Chatchawan reassured the public that BKS had effectively managed operations, ensuring that no passengers were left stranded. The last scheduled buses departed from Bangkok Bus Terminal (Chatuchak) and Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, with departures continuing until late in the evening.
Passengers holding pre-booked tickets for departures on April 11th and 12th, 2025, were advised to arrive at Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, Gate 2, from 6:00 PM onwards. They were urged to allow ample boarding time and verify their ticket details, including the boarding point and platform number, for a smooth travel experience.
Emphasizing safety as a top priority, BKS reiterated its commitment to passenger well-being by ensuring that all buses undergo thorough safety checks before each journey. Drivers are required to have adequate rest, undergo drug and alcohol testing (with a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol), adhere to traffic regulations, and maintain a speed limit of 90 kilometers per hour.
These stringent measures are in line with the Ministry of Transport’s directives, aiming to provide a secure and reliable travel experience for passengers utilizing public transport during the festive period. As Bangkok gears up for the Songkran celebrations at various locations, the transport sector remains vigilant in ensuring the safety and comfort of travelers during this peak travel period.
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