Samut songkhram: Truck operators staged a protest on Rama 2 Road, calling for leniency in vehicle rest period regulations. Over 150 truck operators convened at a gas station on kilometer 79 in Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram Province, where they parked their trucks in a line and displayed signs demanding changes to the laws governing truck operating hours.
According to Thai News Agency, the protest was organized in response to laws that restrict truck drivers to a maximum of 4 consecutive hours of driving, with a mandatory 30-minute break, and a total driving time of no more than 8-10 hours within a 24-hour period. The protesting operators argue that these regulations effectively limit them to 10 hours of work per day, forcing them to take breaks that total over 14 hours. They claim this is impractical and could lead to unsafe driving practices, such as speeding to meet delivery deadlines.
The leaders of the protest are urging a review of the existing law to allow for more flexible working hours within a 24-hour period. They are also requesting consideration for adjusting driving times based on the type of vehicle. The protesters plan to submit a formal letter of demands to a representative of the Director-General of the Department of Land Transport later in the day.