BANGKOK — The Thai government has approved a six-month pilot program allowing double-decker buses to operate on six previously restricted mountain routes, marking a significant shift in transport policy. The temporary measure, effective July 21 through January 2025, comes with stringent safety requirements following years of debate about the vehicles’ suitability for steep terrain.

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The Department of Land Transport (DLT) will oversee operations along the newly permitted corridors, which include several accident-prone highways connecting tourist destinations and national parks. Among the reopened routes are Chiang Mai’s winding Highway 118 to Doi Nang Kaew and the mountainous Highway 2331 leading to Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park. These roads were barred to double-deckers after multiple fatal crashes involving large vehicles on sharp curves.

Transport operators must comply with rigorous new protocols before deploying buses. Each vehicle must undergo enhanced mechanical inspections focusing on brake systems, while drivers complete specialized training for mountain driving. The DLT is simultaneously developing a GPS-based monitoring system to track bus movements in real time, with speed limit enforcement being a key priority.

Thought double deck bus should be outlawed, so many accidents the past 3 yrs! #Thailand https://t.co/tnr8wCkjA0

— Sean Boonpracong (@Rajprasong_News) October 2, 2024

Notably absent from the approved list is Highway 304 between Kabin Buri and Wang Nam Khiao, which remains off-limits due to its notorious accident history. Transport officials emphasize the trial period will be closely evaluated, with the possibility of immediate restrictions reinstated if safety concerns emerge.

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The policy shift follows pressure from tourism operators seeking to revive mountain route services, though safety advocates warn the steep grades still pose inherent risks. Preliminary data from the trial is expected to inform permanent regulations for double-decker operations nationwide.

-Thailand News (TN)