Police ready to offer help to motorists during monsoon

BANGKOK, June 9 (TNA) -- The Royal Thai Police Commissioner General Pol Gen Chakthip Chaijinda has ordered police to offer assistance to motorists during the current monsoon season, according to a spokesman of the Royal Thai Police. Pol Gen Chakthip’s order came after the Meteorological Department issued a warning that heavy rainfalls are expected in the North, Northeast, Central, Eastern and upper Southern from Friday until next Monday. The department said waves in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are expected between 2-3 metres and small boats should stay ashore. Traffic policemen must perform their duties efficiently and to also cooperate with highway police and related government agencies in helping motorists, the spokesman quoted Pol Gen Chakthip as saying. Tourists must wear life saving vest while travelling by boats while those swimming at sea must take extra precautions due to heavy storm and high waves. Also, car drivers should check car engine and fuel before they start travelling, he said, adding that Bangkok motorists could ask for assistance from traffic police at telephone number 1197 round-the-clock. Those in upcountry can call 1193 for help. (TNA)