Transport Ministry Halts Rama II Roadworks to Ease Holiday Travel
In a move aimed at benefiting holiday travellers, the Transport Ministry has ordered the suspension of all construction projects along Rama II Road from December 26 to January 2. This eight-day order is specifically designed to facilitate travel during the upcoming New Year holiday, with a focus on individuals planning to use the road to head south.
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit emphasized the importance of returning the road surface to its original state as much as possible to make it easier for people to use the route. Additionally, he urged travellers to study the route in advance to avoid traffic congestion during the festive season.
The decision to put a hold on the roadworks follows a recent tragic incident on Rama II Road in Samut Sakhon, where a crane collapse at the site of the elevated Ekkachai-Ban Phaeo Intercity Motorway 82 (M82) project resulted in the loss of six lives and left nine others injured.
Ministry’s Directive on Construction Contractors
Minister Suriya has instructed various ministry agencies, including the Department of Highways (DoH), the Department of Rural Roads, the Expressway Authority of Thailand, and the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand, to collaborate with the Ministry of Finance to evaluate the performance of construction contractors promptly. The evaluation results will be recorded in a “Contractor’s Notebook,” where scores can be deducted based on performance. Contractors failing to meet safety requirements risk being removed from the government’s registry.
Investigation and Removal Progress
Apirat Chaiwongnoi, the DoH director-general, disclosed that a fact-finding committee has been established to investigate the M82 collapse. The committee includes representatives from the Engineering Institute of Thailand and the Council of Engineers, with results expected by mid-month.
Regarding the progress of removing steel and concrete structure parts at the collapse site, the engineering team has successfully lifted three concrete bridge segments and will soon dismantle the steel structure. Completion of the removal process is anticipated by mid-month.
Holiday Travel Expectations
The Ministry of Transport anticipates a significant increase in private car trips during the New Year festival, with an estimated total of 17 million trips in and out of Bangkok. Public transportation is also expected to see high usage, with a projected total of 17 million trips via bus, train, boat, and plane.
Within Bangkok and its vicinity, 12 million trips are forecasted, while travel between provinces is expected to reach 2.3 million trips. International travel is projected to account for 1.8 million trips during the holiday season.
As holiday festivities approach, the Ministry’s decision to pause Rama II Roadworks aims to ensure smoother travel experiences for individuals across the country. From evaluating construction contractors to advancing removal efforts at the collapse site, the Ministry is taking proactive steps to safeguard public safety and streamline travel logistics during this festive period.