Khon Kaen Provincial Police Chief Orders Strict Controls at Railway Crossings Over Fears of Repeating Bangkok Tragedy
Khon Kaen police launched strict controls at railway crossings following concerns about repeating Bangkok accidents, improving visibility, installing safety equipment, and enforcing penalties for traffic violations near tracks.
On May 19, Deputy Provincial Police Commander Pol. Col. Thanawat Debunya Na Chumphae, along with traffic police and provincial disaster prevention officials, led an inspection of railway crossing points in Khon Kaen municipality. The operation aimed to prevent accidents at crossings, including locations at Nong Kung village kilometer 454 and Sila subdistrict kilometer 458.
Pol. Col. Thanawat stated that the operation represents an integrated, multi-faceted approach to solving the problem. The physical dimension includes improving visibility by cutting trees and clearing vegetation blocking sightlines, allowing drivers to see approaching trains clearly from a safe distance. The province will also consider installing CCTV cameras, alarm systems, and additional warning signs at appropriate locations, along with public safety education campaigns.
The deputy commander instructed eight police stations along railway routes—including Khon Kaen city, Nam Phong, Ban Phai, Phol, Khao Suan Kwang, Ban Haet, Tha Phra, and Non Sila—to coordinate with relevant agencies and intensify safety inspections. Traffic police will conduct strict enforcement throughout the month, with penalties of up to 1,000 baht and immediate deduction of one driving behavior point via the PTM system for drivers who run red lights or breach safety barriers.
Pol. Col. Thanawat appealed to the public to follow traffic regulations and remember the railway safety mantra: 'three musts, three prohibitions'—slow down, stop 5 meters from tracks, and look both ways; don't breach barriers, don't overtake within 30 meters of a crossing, and don't reverse. Citizens can report damaged barriers or blocked sightlines to local police pages, the 191 emergency radio center, or the State Railway hotline at 1690 any time.
