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Saksayam defends decision against mandatory replacement of passenger vans with micro buses
13 Sept 11:54 Key points summarised by AI
- Transport Minister Saksayam Chidchob clarified that the policy to replace passenger vans with micro buses is voluntary, not mandatory, due to the high cost of micro buses (2.2 million baht compared to 1.2-1.3 million baht for vans).
- He argued that mandatory replacement would force operators to raise fares, burdening commuters, and could lead to drivers speeding to cover costs, potentially reducing safety.
- Saksayam emphasized the necessity of a prior support system, including low-interest credit for operators and a robust maintenance infrastructure, given that micro buses and their parts are imported.
- He also noted that voluntary replacement would reduce the trade deficit, avoiding an estimated 20 billion baht in foreign exchange for importing 10,000 micro buses.
- The minister stated that most passenger van accidents are driver-caused, not vehicle-related, and that extending the service duration from 10 to 12 years depends on individual vehicle condition, with unsafe vans being banned regardless of age.
