Double-decker bus operators seek to revoke ban on using steep incline routes

Double-decker bus operators are threatening to seek redress from the Administrative Court over an order by the Land Transport Department (LTD) barring them from using seven routes containing steep inclines, considered as too hazardous for such vehicles.

For instance, on the Khao Phub Pha route, between Trang and Phatthalung provinces, the LTD is requiring all passengers to disembark from a double-decker bus at the start of the incline and to board a normal bus for the short trip to the other side of the Phub Pha mountain. They must then stop in front of a prison in Srinagarind district of Phatthalung, where passengers disembark to board the original double-decker bus to their destination.

Sakda Chongchit, a double-decker bus owner, complained that the LTD’s order has increased his expense, because he has to hire a normal bus, at about 2,500 baht per trip, just to take the passengers on the short trip along the Khao Phub Pha route.

Sakda said he hopes the LTD will review the order, otherwise he and other bus operators will take their case to the Administrative Court.

Double-decker bus operators in the north-eastern region are also expressing their grievances over the ban.

Chaiwat Wongbenjarat, deputy managing director of Nakhonchai Tour Company, said he agrees with the LTD’s concern for the safety of passengers, but he would like the department have concern for the bus operators as well, adding that villagers along the seven steep inclines are also affected.

He suggested that the LTD use the GPS system to monitor the speed of the buses, instead of prohibiting their use on routes with steep inclines.

The seven steep inclines included in the ban are:

• Highway 118 between Chiang Mai and Doi Nang Kaew

• Highway 103 between Mae Hong Son and Mae Teep

• Highway 1256 between Pua district and Doi Phu Kha National Park in Nan

• Highway 2013 between Bo Pho and Kok Ngarm

• Highway 2331 between Cho Who and Phu Hin Rong Khla National Park in Phetchabun

• Highway 304 between Kabin Buri intersection

• Wang Nam Khieu and Highway 4 on Khao Phub Pha mountain, between Trang and Phatthalung