Following a viral social media video showing a toll barrier arm at a motorway checkpoint hitting a vehicle, and a staff claim that a lizard triggered the sensor, the Department of Highways issued a clarification on June 12, addressing the incident in three main points:
- The Department of Highways, through its Intercity Motorway Division, oversees toll collection for Motorways No. 7 and No. 9, with private contractors responsible for maintenance of both manual (MTC) and automatic toll systems (M-Pass/Easy Pass). Contractors are required to inspect and maintain the systems at least once a month and must promptly fix any issues to ensure system functionality.
- After reviewing video footage, the department confirmed the incident occurred at Bang Pakong 2 Tollgate, lane EN03, on May 31, 2025. This was the first such incident in over a year. Two key issues were identified:
- System malfunction: The department will oversee a complete inspection of the tollgate's system and instruct contractors to ensure future reliability.
- Misinformation by staff: Security staff provided inaccurate procedural information. A fact-finding committee has been formed, and disciplinary measures will be taken if proper procedures were not followed. Staff have been warned and will undergo daily briefing sessions to ensure strict adherence to operating protocols.
- Regarding damage compensation, the Department of Highways confirmed that all related costs will be covered by the contractor. The toll fee division director has contacted the affected party, who declined compensation but requested that the system be improved to prevent similar incidents in the future.