PM awards Mo Chit 2 bus terminal 8 out of 10

This year’s Songkran Festival, the Thai traditional new year, runs from April 12 to 15, with many Thais using the holiday to travel to their hometowns for family reunions.

Accompanying the premier were Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Tourism and Sports Minister Sudawan Wangsupakitkosol, as well as executives of Transport Company, the state-run interprovincial bus agency which also operates the bus terminal.

Srettha urged officials to focus on the physical readiness of bus drivers as well as drug screening to ensure safe travel during the long holiday, which usually sees a significant spike in road accidents due to speeding and drunk driving.

The PM then checked the progress of renovation projects at Mo Chit 2, including the terminal building, bus waiting areas, restrooms, and food court. He advised Transport Co to install LED monitors in the waiting areas to generate income from advertising and give passengers something to watch to pass the time.

Srettha also talked with passengers waiting for buses at the terminal and asked how they find the upgrades to Mo Chit 2. Most of the respondents said the terminal has improved significantly. Srettha appeared to agree, giving the terminal a score of 8 out of 10.

Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote told reporters that he has ordered officials at Mo Chit 2 to facilitate people travelling during Songkran to make sure that no one was stranded at the terminal. Officials were also told to regularly patrol the area in and around the terminal to crack down on ticket scalpers and illegal taxis.

He insisted that all bus drivers must pass an alcohol test before operating the vehicles to ensure safety of all passengers during the Songkran exodus.

Transport Co estimates that up to 800,000 passengers will use Mo Chit 2 over the holiday as they travel upcountry and then back.