State Railway of Thailand to take action against train driver and track supervisor; preliminarily dismiss them from civil service positions
State Railway of Thailand has preliminarily dismissed a train driver and track supervisor involved in a recent collision with a Bangkok bus, pending a full investigation into the accident's cause including substance testing and license veri
The State Railway of Thailand is taking action against the train driver and track supervisor involved in the recent collision, with preliminary dismissals from civil service positions and an investigation committee established to examine multiple individuals.
On May 18, 2025, Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angskul discussed the collision between a State Railway train and a Bangkok Mass Transit Authority bus. The Transport Ministry is conducting comprehensive fact-checking on driver standards, track control systems, warning systems, and substance testing procedures to determine the accident's true cause, with preliminary results expected by Wednesday.
Initial reports show the train driver possessed an existing locomotive license but had not yet verified identity for a new license under the Rail Transport Act, which took effect on March 27, 2025, during its 120-day transition period. The State Railway's internal license and the Rail Transport Authority's permit operate separately. Previously, the State Railway used its own system, but the new law brought additional oversight by the Rail Transport Authority, creating a system transition. However, Deputy Minister Siripong emphasized this is not an excuse—even during the legal grace period, accountability and investigation remain necessary.
Regarding substance and alcohol testing, alcohol checks are routinely conducted before each duty, while drug screening uses random testing rounds. Screen tests for the train driver showed positive results across all substances, though specific drug types have not been disclosed as results are preliminary. It remains unclear whether the driver admits to drug use, pending police investigation and interrogation.
The driver and track supervisor provided conflicting statements, requiring full investigation before proceeding. Both have been preliminarily dismissed from civil service pending investigation transparency, with an investigation committee formed to examine multiple parties. Progress reports are due by May 20, 2025.
The Transport Ministry is implementing short-term solutions by improving personnel management and reducing human error, while long-term strategies will incorporate technology to reduce risk, requiring significant budget allocation and accelerated infrastructure projects. The Prime Minister has directed all agencies to implement systematic management despite bureaucratic constraints.
Regarding freight train operations, the Transport Ministry is considering restricting heavy cargo train schedules during daytime hours, similar to land transport regulations, as freight trains require longer braking distances and higher operational skill levels. Night-time operations will be emphasized.
