Public transport complaints in Thailand exceed 100,000 in 9 months

The Department of Land Transport has revealed that complaints about public transport in the past nine months have exceeded 100,000 cases, with the most common issue being rude behaviour. Over 40,000 public transport drivers have had points deducted, and 404 drivers have had their licenses suspended.

Today, July 24, Seksom Akkharaphan, Deputy Director-General and spokesperson of the Department of Land Transport, disclosed that from October last year to June this year, there were 115,122 complaints recorded through the Public Passenger Protection Centre (1584) for the fiscal year 2024. Of these, 108,650 complaints, or 94.38%, have been resolved.

Out of the total complaints, 14,637 were about public vehicles regulated by the Motor Vehicle Act, such as taxis, tuk tuks, small four-wheelers, and motorcycle taxis. Of these, 13,671 cases have been addressed. Complaints regarding public vehicles under the Land Transport Act, including buses, minibuses, vans, and songthaews, totalled 18,552, with 17,280 resolved.

The top five complaints under the Motor Vehicle Act were:
1. Rude behaviour
2. Refusal to take passengers
3. Reckless driving
4. Not using the fare metre
5. Overcharging fares

Under the Land Transport Act, the top complaints were:
1. Reckless driving
2. Failing to stop at designated stops
3. Rude behaviour
4. Parking obstructively
5. Unsafe vehicle conditions

Complaints about other vehicles (personal vehicles) amounted to 81,933, with 77,699 resolved. The Department of Land Transport emphasised the importance of public participation in reporting issues. Upon verifying complaints, the department enforces a point-deduction system for public transport drivers.

Between October last year and June this year, 41,465 offences have led to point deductions, 404 drivers have had their licenses suspended, and 1,025 drivers have undergone training to regain their points, Seksom said.

“If serious accidents occur due to violations, the Department of Land Transport will revoke the driver’s license.

“The government prioritises promoting tourism to stimulate the economy, leading to increased foreign visitors who frequently use public transport. Public transport drivers must not exploit passengers and must strictly adhere to the law.”

Drivers are required to register their vehicles correctly, have insurance as mandated by law, and hold a valid public driver’s license. They must also pass a criminal background check by the Royal Thai Police before obtaining a public driver’s license, reported KhaoSod.

Taxi drivers must always use the metre and charge fares according to the law. Motorcycle taxi drivers must dress appropriately, wear their designated vests showing their public motorcycle taxi license (yellow card), and ensure that their vest numbers match. Fare rates must be displayed clearly at the motorcycle taxi stands for public visibility.