Minibus Driver Abandons Passengers, Apologizes Over Mechanical Failure
A Nakhon Nayok minibus driver was disciplined after abandoning passengers when a clutch pump failure left the vehicle unable to shift gears properly; he apologized for panicking and failing to arrange alternative transport to complete the r
Nakhon Nayok transport authorities have disciplined a minibus driver after passengers reported being abandoned mid-route. The driver apologized, citing a defective clutch pump that prevented proper gear engagement.
The driver explained that he shifted into fourth gear to start the engine, then hurried to a repair shop without arranging for another vehicle to collect the stranded passengers. He said the manual transmission system only allows operation in fourth gear when the pump fails, and he panicked and forgot to contact dispatch.
Transport official Piang Jun Pond Phodhi said the incident was brought to their attention through a viral clip. She stated that when a bus breaks down, operators must arrange an alternative vehicle to complete the journey. Failure to do so results in penalties.
At 9:30 a.m., driver Burpot Ying Sap reported to the provincial transport office. Officials briefed him on legal obligations and proper procedures when vehicles malfunction. According to the Land Transport Act B.E. 2522, Section 104, drivers cannot force passengers off before their destination without valid cause. Violators face fines of 500 to 5,000 baht, license suspension, and mandatory retraining.
Burpot explained he was at Rangsit Future Park Bus Terminal when the clutch failed as he prepared to depart. He told passengers to board a following vehicle, then shifted into fourth gear and drove to the repair shop. The manual transmission, when stuck in fourth gear, allowed limited movement by repeatedly starting and stopping the engine.
Burpot identified the cause as a faulty clutch pump cylinder seal and apologized to all passengers, acknowledging his panic prevented him from coordinating proper passenger transfer.
