Bangkok: "Siripong" has issued a warning about the dangers present at railway sites after a civilian was hit by a train. He emphasized that the incident was distinct from the Makkasan intersection case and noted that the ongoing three-month trial study of a train bypass around the city has not yet reached a conclusion.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Deputy Minister of Transport, expressed his regret over the incident where a man was struck by a train near the Makkasan railway crossing. He highlighted that the situation differed from previous incidents as it did not occur at a main railway crossing with barriers. The injured individual had crossed the tracks to urinate, leading to the collision. He stressed that legal procedures will follow, as railway crossings are inherently dangerous, and extreme caution is necessary. In this case, the train was operating at normal speed, and the accident occurred too close for any braking action to be effective. Siripong reiterated the importance of public awareness and caution at railway sites.
In response to questions about the experimental measure to ban trains from inner Bangkok for three months, Mr. Siripong clarified that Transport Minister Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn has directed the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) to develop a plan within two months, with a total evaluation period of three months. He emphasized that this is not a new initiative, as similar measures have been implemented before. They are currently addressing various concerns, such as the use of BMTA buses alongside the train system, which previously led to delays, and the higher fares associated with switching to electric trains. The current measure is still under study and is not yet a trial. He assured that all feedback is being taken into account. The goal is to elevate all rail lines, akin to the successful Bang Sue to Rangsit line, which alleviates traffic problems. He also mentioned the ongoing study of the unfinished "Missing Link" system, which will eventually be fully elevated. Presently, the SRT remains in the study p hase.