Road rationing urged for congestion woes

Businesses have suggested a new traffic rule be applied in downtown Nakhon Ratchasima to ease congestion by rotating the days on which cars are allowed to be driven according to even and odd licence plate numbers.

The proposal, seen as crucial given that the situation will almost certainly worsen as a result of a new city railway project, was made by the province’s Federation of Thai Industries (FTI).

It came as Deputy Transport Minister Pailin Chuchottaworn unveiled a plan to build a transit linking Saveone Market and Mukkhamontri Road in Muang district.

The FTI voiced concerns over traffic flow during the construction of the 11.17-kilometre track and asked the ministry to come up with new forms of traffic management.

The idea of allowing motorists to drive their vehicles on alternate days was among the measures Mr Pailin and FTI representatives discussed on Wednesday.

The deputy minister did not elaborate, saying only the businessmen wanted the Transport Ministry to consider their proposal.

Plans to regulate traffic flow are essential as officials are going ahead with the light rail construction project.

According to Mr Pailin, construction is expected to start in the next two years and last 39 months until the end of 2024.

The Commission for the Management of Road Traffic, which has initiated the project, is seeking an adviser and is preparing to conduct an environmental impact assessment (EIA) report.

It needs a year-long study before the cabinet can be approached to approve a financial plan.

The project value is estimated at 8.4 billion baht, Mr Pailin said.

There will be 18 stations along the route. FTI adviser Phaisit Pitisongsawat said transport officials should ensure the new mass transit system encourages people to leave cars at home.

This will be a long-term solution to traffic congestion, he said.