🛣️ Free Motorway Travel Announced for Songkran Festival: April 11–17
THAILAND – In a move to ease travel during the Songkran holidays, the Department of Highways (DoH) has announced free access to several key motorways from April 11 to April 17, 2025. The initiative is expected to accommodate the surge of people traveling to their hometowns or on holiday during Thailand’s traditional New Year celebration.
✅ Motorways Open for Free Travel
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Suriya Juangroongruangkit, confirmed that two major motorway routes will be toll-free:
- Motorway No. 7: Bangkok – Chon Buri – Pattaya – Map Ta Phut
- Motorway No. 9: Bang Pa-in – Bang Phli and Phra Pradaeng – Bang Khun Thian
⏰ Free travel begins at 12:01 AM on April 11 and ends at midnight on April 17.
🚗 Temporary Routes Opened
In addition to the main motorways, the DoH is opening temporary routes to help manage holiday congestion:
- Motorway No. 6 (Hin Kong – Pak Chong – Nakhon Ratchasima, 163 km):
- Outbound from Bangkok: April 11–13
- Inbound to Bangkok: April 14–17
- Motorway No. 81 (Bang Yai – Kanchanaburi, 96 km): Open April 11–17
🔧 Nationwide Travel Assistance
To ensure smooth travel, Director General Aphirath Chaiyavongnoi has ordered all highway branches to:
- Inspect and maintain traffic signs, lighting, and signals
- Identify and rectify hazardous road areas
- Clear construction sites to prevent bottlenecks
Emergency Mobile Service Cars will be on standby to assist with breakdowns and accidents.
🚨 423 Service Points Set Up Across the Country
Travelers can rely on 24-hour roadside assistance at:
- 130 points managed by the DoH and motorway divisions
- 205 points staffed by highway police
- 88 points at truck weigh and rest stations
These service areas will provide:
- Travel information and alternative routes
- Drinking water
- Clean restrooms at 651 highway sections nationwide
📢 Reminder for Travelers
Motorists are encouraged to:
- Plan routes in advance
- Use real-time traffic apps
- Follow safety regulations and rest if tired
