Bangkok: Minister Pipat has directed the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) to modify prayer carriages on southern train lines to accommodate Muslim passengers during Eid al-Adha, starting May 22, 2026.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, has taken steps to ensure that Muslim passengers can observe their religious practices during travel by converting passenger carriages into prayer compartments on southern trains. This initiative, which begins on May 22, 2026, demonstrates a commitment to inclusive and considerate travel for all religious communities. Mr. Pipat emphasized the importance of safety measures, urging the SRT to check the readiness of trains and equipment, deploy CCTV systems nationwide, and coordinate with the Railway Police to maintain safety throughout the journey.
Mr. Anan Pothinimdaeng, Deputy Governor and Acting Governor of the SRT, stated that the SRT has implemented policies to ensure the comfort and safety of Thai Muslim travelers during Eid al-Adha, which falls on May 28, 2026. The SRT has modified third-class carriages to include four compartments, separating men's and women's sections, and providing a prayer and ablution area to adhere to Islamic principles. These prayer carriages will be attached to express trains 171/172 and 169/170, covering routes from Bangkok Aphiwat to Suai Kolok and Yala. Additionally, the SRT has previously reserved seating for Buddhist monks in third-class carriages, reflecting its dedication to treating passengers of all faiths equitably.
To ease congestion during holiday periods, extra carriages have been added to express train No. 173/174, Bangkok-Nakhon Si Thammarat-Bangkok. This service began on May 15 and has been well-received.
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Great Eid, is a significant festival for Muslims worldwide. It occurs in Dhul Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar, and symbolizes sacrifice and faith. The introduction of prayer booths is considered a gesture of the government's care and concern for its citizens.
Passengers can obtain more information from the Customer Service Center at telephone number 1690, available 24/7, or through the State Railway of Thailand's Public Relations Facebook page. Train schedules and real-time locations can be checked at https://ttsview.railway.co.th/v3/.