Traffic congestion rises as Thai motorists head home for new year
Traffic congestion has begun as people return home for the new year celebrations. Roads across Saraburi, particularly Phahonyothin and Route 304, are seeing increased volumes of vehicles, prompting traffic police to expedite the flow towards the gateway to Isaan.
Reports yesterday highlighted the growing traffic on Friendship Highway as people journey back to their hometowns for the new year festivities. The stretch from Nong Khae to Saraburi City experienced a steady increase in vehicles, maintaining speeds of 80 to 90 kilometres per hour (km/h).
However, there was a noticeable slowdown approaching Saraburi City, especially when turning right onto the overpass towards Nakhon Ratchasima, as the overpass narrows at this point. Upon descending the overpass and turning right towards the Friendship Highway, congestion intensified, particularly in the Kaeng Khoi to Muak Lek area, due to the uphill terrain, reducing speeds to 40 to 50 km/h.
The Sri Maha Bodhi-Nakhon Ratchasima road, or Route 304, and the newly constructed Sa Kaeo route (Phanom Sarakham-Sa Kaeo) or Route 359, showed heavy but manageable traffic conditions in the afternoon. Traffic police from Rabo Phai and Sri Maha Bodhi police stations were on site, managing traffic lights to facilitate smoother flow towards Nakhon Ratchasima, aiming to alleviate bottlenecks and slow-moving traffic.
Alongside the police efforts, Swang Bampen Dhamma Sathan rescue volunteers set up tents to manage traffic and assist the public in case of road accidents. Collaborating with provincial officials, they established service points at key locations to aid those returning to their northeastern hometowns for the new year celebrations.
“We’re doing our best to ensure everyone returns home safely and promptly,” said a representative from the rescue team.
The annual exodus for the new year period often results in significant traffic increases, particularly on major routes leading from Bangkok to the northeast. This year is no exception, as many seize the opportunity to reconnect with family and friends. The police have been proactive in their approach, deploying traffic police and service personnel to monitor and manage the flow of vehicles, reported KhaoSod.
“It’s a challenging time, but our teams are well-prepared to handle the situation efficiently.”
