The Government of Thailand has announced that motorists will enjoy free access to two expressways and two motorways during the new year holidays. The initiative aims to ease travel and encourage economic activity during the festive period.
According to deputy government spokesperson Anukul Prueksanusak, the fee waiver applies to the Burapha Withi Expressway, the Kanchanaphisek (Bang Phli-Suk Sawat) Expressway, the Inter-City M7 Motorway (Bangkok-Map Ta Phut), and the Inter-City M9 (Bang Pa-in-Bang Phli) Motorway. The waiver will be in effect from December 26 to January 2.
The official new year holiday period is from December 28 to January 1. During this time, the government expects increased travel as people celebrate with family and friends.
The temporary suspension of toll fees on the two expressways is projected to result in a revenue loss of 96 million baht. Anukul estimates that approximately 2.6 million motorists will use these expressways during the waiver period.
The state also anticipates a revenue loss of 207 million baht from the two motorways. Despite these figures, Anukul highlighted that the economic benefits could outweigh the losses.
This decision underscores the government’s strategy to boost domestic spending during the holiday season while facilitating smoother travel for the public. It reflects a broader understanding of how infrastructure management can impact economic dynamics.
Overall, the initiative is expected to provide financial relief to motorists, allowing them to allocate funds towards holiday-related expenses. This approach not only supports individual travellers but also contributes to the wider economy by increasing disposable income during a peak spending period, reported Bangkok Post.
As the new year approaches, the government anticipates that the waived tolls will encourage more people to travel, supporting local businesses and tourism. This move is part of a larger effort to stimulate the economy as the nation embraces the holiday spirit.
In related news, Thailand is ringing in the new year with a determined focus on safety, as Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin reveals a no-nonsense plan to tackle alcohol-fuelled road accidents during the festive celebrations.
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