Transport Ministry Orders Vehicles Off Expressway as Floodwaters Recede
Thailand's Transport Ministry has ordered vehicles parked on expressways to be removed as floodwaters recede, warning of tow trucks for non-compliance. Free parking is available at Bangkok Mass Transit System facilities through October 2 fo
Transport Deputy Minister Siripong Angskul addressed the Expressway Authority's directive requiring motorists to remove vehicles parked on expressway stretches, warning that officials will tow cars if they are not relocated. Since flooding began on Saturday, September 26, main roads have largely recovered, and although water still lingers in several areas, normal traffic patterns have resumed. The expressway authority ordered the removals because drivers are now returning to normal speeds on cleared lower roads, making parked vehicles on express lanes and bridges a safety and property liability risk.
Motorists without alternative parking still have access to Bangkok Mass Transit System facilities across the city, particularly the Ladphrao station, which can accommodate nearly 1,000 additional vehicles. Siripong confirmed the Transport Ministry has arranged free parking at BMTS structures through October 2, with an option to extend if conditions do not improve.
Siripong addressed confusion from the first day, when some motorists reported being charged to exit the expressway. He apologized for the miscommunication, explaining that charges were collected only from vehicles parked before the formal order was announced. The BMTS has recorded payment details and will refund all collected fees to affected motorists on Saturday, September 25.
Regarding vehicles parked on surrounding non-expressway roads and outer street areas, Siripong said traffic police will determine whether parking is permissible, though he emphasized that current driver behavior has returned to normal and stationary vehicles face collision risk. In areas around the Royal Palace complex still experiencing localized flooding, residents may continue parking on main roads and bridges where congestion severely blocks traffic, following guidance from the Prime Minister to prioritize public accommodation. However, on highways and express lanes with high-speed traffic, vehicles should be relocated.
On parking at various bridge intersections, Siripong stated that traffic police will issue guidance through public announcements. The Transport Ministry has stationed approximately 40 tow trucks as of 1 p.m. on September 29, though final parking decisions rest with traffic police. The ministry provides equipment support.
