Rail Department Reveals Train Driver in Bus Collision Lacked License; Disciplinary Committee Established, Legal Action Underway, Calls for Deep Investigation

The Rail Department revealed that the train driver involved in the collision with a bus had not received an operator's license. A disciplinary committee has been established and legal proceedings initiated against all involved staff. On May 17, Rail Department Director-General Pichit Kunathammarak disclosed that police testing confirmed drug use in the urine of Sanyampon, 46, a driver of train 2126 running the Laem Chabang-Bang Sue route, which collided with line 206 bus at the Asok-Din Daeng railway crossing on May 16, killing 8 and injuring over 30.

In response to the incident, the Rail Department issued urgent orders to the State Railway of Thailand requiring drug and alcohol screening for all personnel with driving and operational responsibilities, as well as ground safety staff such as crossing gate operators and signal workers before each shift, implementing a zero-tolerance policy.

Pichit stated that Sanyampon had not received an operator's license from the Rail Department. The driver has been suspended, and the State Railway has been ordered to establish a serious disciplinary committee while suspending the train driver and associated crossing gate personnel immediately, with full legal prosecution. An in-depth investigation will determine how supervisors allowed a drug-impaired individual to operate a train carrying numerous passengers.

Pichit noted that the Railway Transport Act B.E. 2568, Section 90, empowers transport inspectors to conduct drug and alcohol testing on personnel suspected of impairment. The Rail Department is issuing implementing regulations to enforce the law. This order aims to restore public confidence that the Rail Department prioritizes safety above all else.