Rail Department Files Charges Against All Vehicles Parked on Tracks During Bus-Train Collision

On May 22, 2025 at Makkasan Police Station, Raksit Waitee, Director of the Legal Division of the Department of Rail Transport, filed charges with investigating officers after receiving authorization from the department's director to prosecute vehicle drivers who parked on railroad tracks starting May 16 at 3:33 PM until the time of the train-bus collision. Charges were filed under the Rail Transport Act 2568 and other criminal statutes.

Raksit stated that the department has filed charges with police to proceed under the Rail Transport Act after discovering damage to the transportation system affecting the general public. The specific number of violations or charges cannot be clearly determined at this stage as each case must be considered individually, similar to traffic laws. Investigation officers will be responsible for gathering evidence and examining facts in detail.

When asked whether the charges relate to obstructions preventing the train from operating, Raksit said this is an important factor, as the law establishes liability for causing damage to the rail transportation system or obstructing train operations. For cases where vehicles may have unintentionally parked on tracks without intent to violate the law, Raksit noted that circumstances must be examined case-by-case, including how the situation occurred and whether drivers could have avoided or moved their vehicles.

Raksit emphasized that the Rail Transport Act is new legislation that took effect March 27, making this one of the first cases prosecuted under it. Regarding bus operators, charges will depend on criminal law elements including the act, damage caused, and the perpetrator. If no damage occurred, charges might be limited to attempted violation.

On the issue of employee substance use, Raksit revealed that following the incident, orders were issued to test all involved employees, emphasizing that drug use is unacceptable in any form of transportation, though criminal charges depend on legal elements.

When asked about the primary cause of the accident, Raksit stressed that parked vehicles are only one factor, and negligence from multiple parties—including bus drivers, train staff, and relevant officials—must be investigated thoroughly. The department has no authority to determine guilt but has a duty to oversee and prevent recurrence.

Regarding operator licensing under the new rail transport framework, Raksit noted the law recently took effect and licensing is ongoing, with approximately 300-400 of 900 applicants processed. During the transition period, existing workers may continue operating normally to avoid disrupting nationwide rail service.