Bangkok: The government is implementing strict regulations to reduce the repair time for vehicles emitting black smoke, mandating that such vehicles be fixed within 15 days. This measure has already been enforced by the relevant authorities.
According to Thai News Agency, the Pollution Control Department, in collaboration with the Traffic Police Division, has intensified efforts to prevent the use of vehicles that emit black smoke. Traffic officers are now required to ensure that owners of vehicles emitting black smoke above the acceptable standard bring their vehicles in for repairs within the new 15-day timeframe, a significant reduction from the previous 30 days.
Ms. Priyaporn Suwannaket, Director-General of the Pollution Control Department, stated that the department, together with the Traffic Police Division, has heightened measures to enforce compliance with the Land Traffic Act and the Promotion and Conservation of National Environmental Quality Act B.E. 2535. Drivers found operating vehicles emitting black smoke beyond the standard will face maximum fines as stipulated by law. Traffic officers are authorized to demand that vehicle owners repair their non-compliant vehicles within the stipulated 15 days.
The decision to strengthen these measures arises from the high PM2.5 dust levels in many areas, particularly in Bangkok and its surrounding areas. The government's policy is to rigorously enforce laws against all pollution sources, with a special focus on inspecting and suspending the use of vehicles that exceed black smoke standards. The regulations apply to all types of vehicles, including private cars, pickup trucks, public buses, trucks, buses belonging to government agencies, and joint-service vehicles. Authorities noted that some vehicles with black smoke issues, previously marked with a 'Temporarily prohibited from use' sticker for necessary repairs, were found operating during the restricted period. The new measure is now in effect for all vehicle types.