On January 7 at 12:30 p.m., Deputy Government Spokesperson Karom Phonphonklang announced that the Cabinet had approved a draft ministerial regulation establishing specific speed limits for vehicles on concession highways. This regulation addresses the unique traffic conditions of concession highways, which are not adequately covered by existing general traffic laws, such as the 2021 ministerial regulation on road traffic speed limits.

The regulation primarily applies to Concession Highway No. 5 (Uttaraphimuk Elevated Tollway), the only concession highway currently in operation, connecting Din Daeng to the Monument of Remembrance. The new measures aim to enhance traffic flow, reduce violations, and improve safety.

Key Provisions of the New Regulation

  1. Revised Speed Limits by Vehicle Type:
    • Heavy Trucks (over 2,200 kg) and Passenger Buses (over 15 seats):
      • New limit: 80 km/h (previously 60 km/h).
    • Vehicles Towing Trailers or Compact Cars:
      • New limit: 65 km/h (previously 45 km/h).
    • School Buses or Student Transport Vehicles:
      • New limit: 80 km/h (previously 60 km/h).
    • All Other Vehicles:
      • New limit: 100 km/h (previously 80 km/h).
  2. Minimum Speed Requirement for the Rightmost Lane:
    • Vehicles in the far-right lane must maintain a minimum speed of 90 km/h, except under certain conditions such as traffic congestion, poor visibility, or road obstructions.
    • (Previously, no minimum speed was specified in the 2021 regulation.)

Purpose and Impact

Deputy Spokesperson Karom emphasized that the updated speed limits reflect the nature of concession highways, where appropriate speeds are crucial for maintaining smooth traffic flow and ensuring safety. By introducing specific speed regulations, the government aims to reduce traffic violations and provide a safer commuting experience.

The new rules are expected to come into effect following official publication and will serve as a model for similar regulations on future concession highways.