Measures to keep smooth Songkran festival being planned

BANGKOK, March 16 (TNA) -- Transport authorities discussed a plan to provide travelers during the Songkran festival with conveniences and safety. Chartchai Tipsunave, permanent secretary for transport, said concerned authorities would arrange for adequate public transport services. The Department of Highways and the Department of Rural Roads will tell their contractors to suspend their road maintenance work from April 8 to 18 and keep traffic signs and lights in good conditions. Direction signs for shortcuts will be installed for motorists’ conveniences. The State Railway of Thailand will deploy a few more carriages to each train and operate additional trains. Local administration organizations will have staff facilitate traffic at unofficial level crossings. The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority will send its staff to crowded bus stops to ensure good services. The Mass Rapid Transit Authority will also have more staff at crowded subway stations like those in Hua Lamphong, Chatuchak, Kamphaeng Phet and Silom areas. (TNA)