Transport Ministry Responds to Widespread Flooding in Thailand

Bangkok:A total of 319 public roads have been affected by recent flooding in Thailand, with 119 of these roads currently impassable.

According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, shared updates from the Emergency Operations Center for Flood Response (EOC-MOT) as of October 3, 2026. The Ministry of Transport's road network has been significantly impacted, affecting 168 highways (41 impassable) and 151 rural roads (78 impassable). Efforts are underway by the Department of Highways and the Department of Rural Roads to monitor high-risk areas and expedite the reopening of routes as water levels recede.

Minister Pipat outlined various transportation measures to assist flood victims, focusing on "assistance, relief, and recovery" initiatives. These include opening free parking spaces, reducing vehicle repair costs, simplifying vehicle registration processes, and ensuring ride-hailing services adhere to set pricing to prevent exploitation.

The Ministry of Transport has also facilitated bus services in flood-affected areas of Bangkok, Pathum Thani, and Nonthaburi, with six routes in operation since September 26. Additionally, buses are connecting Suvarnabhumi Airport to central Bangkok, and six tow trucks are deployed to clear disabled vehicles from critical areas.

To further support flood victims, the Department of Land Transport has partnered with 29 car and motorcycle manufacturers to offer discounts on spare parts and labor, free inspections, and other services. These benefits vary according to each company's terms. The department also streamlined the process for replacing lost or damaged vehicle documentation, allowing citizens to use copies until November 30, 2026.

The Ministry has provided 10 aluminum boats with engines and 20 fiberglass boats with oars to assist those in heavily flooded areas. Moreover, 3,200 sets of meals and drinking water have been distributed to the public and shelters.

In an effort to accommodate those needing to relocate vehicles from high-risk areas, the Mass Transit Authority of Thailand is extending free parking until October 9, 2026, at eight facilities. Don Mueang Airport is also offering free parking in the Cargo Terminal 4 area.

Mr. Pipat stressed the importance of safety in high-risk zones, advising officials to issue warnings, close unsafe routes, and provide alternative pathways. Once water levels decrease, the focus will shift to rapid recovery and reopening of transportation infrastructure.