Enhanced Drug Testing for Thailand's Bus Drivers

Post by : Shakul

In a decisive move, Thailand's Transport Company Limited (BKS) has instituted more stringent drug testing protocols for public bus drivers, following fresh safety measures introduced by the Deputy Minister of Transport, Siripong Angkasakulkiat.

The initiative took place at the Mochit 2 bus terminal in Bangkok, where drug screenings were performed on all bus drivers affiliated with BKS and its partner transportation firms before their shifts commenced.

As stated by BKS Managing Director Atthawit Rakchamroon, this action forms a part of a comprehensive plan by the Ministry of Transport to boost public trust in long-distance bus services and elevate overall safety standards in transportation.

During the inspections, nearly 100 drivers were evaluated, with no illegal substances detected in any samples. Results from the tests were documented officially in vehicle logbooks to assist with safety monitoring.

Officials have confirmed that any driver caught using illicit substances will face immediate suspension. Samples would then be forwarded to the Department of Medical Sciences for thorough validation before any disciplinary steps are initiated against the driver and their respective transport company.

The Ministry of Transport has reiterated that all public transport drivers must be entirely free from drugs and alcohol to safeguard passenger wellbeing. Consistent inspections and urine tests will remain a fixture at main Bangkok terminals such as Mochit 2, Ekkamai, Southern Bus Terminal, Pinklao Bus Terminal, and the Mini Bus Terminal.

Officials highlighted that safety evaluations will tighten during peak travel times, including New Year and Songkran holidays, when millions take to the roads nationwide. The government aspires that these robust measures will lead to fewer road incidents and heighten public confidence in Thailand's transport system.

#World News #Asia News #Transport #Safety