Bangkok: The Ministry of Transport has announced comprehensive measures to ensure smooth and safe travel during the Songkran Festival 2025. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Minister of Transport, has directed the Department of Highways (DoH) to inspect and prepare key routes, including the opening of the M6 Hin Kong-Korat section for free public use and the M81 Bang Yai-Kanchanaburi section for trial use, spanning 96.41 km. Emphasis has been placed on safety, with a halt to all construction projects during the festival to prioritize the public's wellbeing.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Suriya has specifically tasked the DoH with monitoring the Special Highway No. 6 Bang Pa-in - Nakhon Ratchasima (M6) project to ensure full readiness for the influx of travelers during Songkran. The initiative is part of the 'Happy Festival, Everywhere in Thailand, Convenient and Safe Travel on the Transportation Network' campaign, aimed at minimizing accidents. The M6 motorway's Hin Kong - Pak Chong route, covering 85.4 kilometers, will be accessible from April 11 to April 17, 2025, with designated traffic directions for different dates.
Mr. Apirat Chaiwongnoi, Director-General of the DoH, confirmed the ongoing progress of the M6 project between km. 33+100 and km. 196+000, covering 163 kilometers. The section has been available for two-way traffic since the New Year Festival 2024, and additional service will be offered during Songkran, with two temporary rest stops at Thap Kwang and Sikhiu. Meanwhile, the M81 Bang Yai - Nakhon Pathom - Kanchanaburi motorway is open for trial use, with a speed limit of 80 km/hr to enhance safety.
Nationwide, the DoH has established 423 service points, including 130 set up in collaboration with other agencies, 205 by the Highway Police, and 88 at truck weight and rest stations. An additional 227 service points bring the total to 650, offering 24-hour services such as route information, alternative route suggestions, drinking water, and clean restrooms.
To further ensure safe travel, the DoH is undertaking road repairs, maintaining lighting and traffic signals, and preparing emergency assistance vehicles. They are also offering real-time traffic updates via the M-Traffic application and other online platforms.
The Ministry of Transport and the Department of Highways urge the public to plan their journeys in advance, ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, and drive cautiously to ensure a safe and enjoyable Songkran Festival 2025.