M6 Highway Section Opens Free on Weekends
A 110-kilometre section of the M6 Highway between Bang Pa-in and Pak Chong opened for free weekend use on Friday, offering drivers an alternative route to Nakhon Ratchasima that could reduce traffic on major roads by 30–40%.
On 21 August, Deputy Prime Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn and Transport Ministry Undersecretary Siripong Angskul opened the M6 Highway Bang Pa-in to Pak Chong section for trial operation. The 110-kilometre route between Bang Pa-in in Ayutthaya province and Pak Chong will be free to use every Friday from noon through Sunday midnight, providing an alternative route from Bangkok and surrounding areas to Nakhon Ratchasima and the Northeast. The route offers access at five points: Bang Pa-in, Hin Kong, Kaeng Khoi, Mueang Mak, and Pak Chong gates, connecting to the existing trial section running Pak Chong to Nakhon Ratchasima bypass.
The opening is expected to reduce traffic on Phahon Yothin Road and Mittraphap Road by 30–40%, especially during weekends and holidays. The full M6 line stretches 196 kilometres and serves as a strategic route to the Northeast, supporting regional connectivity and economic development. The highway will eventually open free service around the clock across its entire length during New Year 2570 celebrations.
Deputy PM Pipat stated that opening this section demonstrates the government's commitment to developing transport infrastructure and improving travel efficiency between Bangkok, the Central region, and the Northeast. He called for special attention to scenic areas, particularly around Lam Takhong, to prevent parking violations and accidents, and urged the public to observe traffic laws strictly. Highway authorities have coordinated with Highway Police, forest rangers, rescue units, and local agencies to ensure road safety and public assistance throughout the route.
