BANGKOK, THAILAND – The operator of Bangkok’s Skytrain called on passengers with long hair to hold it in place to prevent discomfort and minor injuries in crowded carriages.
When hair turns into a weapon
The BTS in Bangkok was known for its packed trains, especially during rush hour when space was tight. In these conditions, a quick turn of the head or a passenger leaning forward could send long hair whipping into the face of someone standing nearby.
What might have looked like a small annoyance could actually hurt. On social media, the Skytrain operator warned that loose hair could cause unexpected contact in confined spaces.
“Loose hair can accidentally strike other passengers in the face, on the shoulders, in the eyes or even in the mouth.”
said the BTS operator.
The new code of conduct
The Skytrain appealed to all passengers with long hair to hold it when boarding and alighting, walking past others or turning their heads. The message targeted everyday movements that often happened in crowded carriages.
According to the operator, the appeal was about respect and consideration.
“Let us build a polite travel culture and be considerate of one another to ensure a pleasant journey for everyone.”
said the official BTS announcement. Those who ignored the advice did not face fines, but they could expect disapproving looks from fellow riders.
Other rules that apply
Alongside the new hair guidance, the BTS reminded passengers of other behaviour rules. Riders were instructed to hold on to handrails and keep seats free for monks, pregnant women and people with disabilities.
Eating and drinking in the carriages was strictly prohibited. Leaning on doors or blocking passageways with luggage was also considered unacceptable on the Skytrain.
On the platform, passengers were told to queue behind the yellow line, let people exit the train before boarding and stay outside if the doors were already closed. These rules aimed to keep flows orderly and platforms safe.
Strict bans on board the BTS
The list of prohibitions on the BTS network was extensive. Smoking, bringing lighters or carrying dangerous substances was completely banned.
Animals were not allowed on the trains. Passengers were also forbidden from bringing roller skates, skateboards or bicycles into the system.
Anyone who caused trouble, behaved loudly or defaced trains could be removed from the service. The operator said it wanted to maintain a clean and safe environment for everyone using the Skytrain.
How passengers reacted
Reactions on social media were mixed. Many women with long hair expressed understanding for the request.
“I always try to hold my hair in the crowd. It is simply respectful.”
said one female user. Others thought the campaign was exaggerated and questioned whether such advice was necessary.
“People should just keep a bit of distance.”
said a male passenger. The BTS responded calmly and framed the campaign as part of its effort to promote harmony in the daily transport chaos.
How to keep the ride comfortable
The operator advised passengers to tie up or hold long hair when using the BTS, especially in crowded conditions. Luggage should be placed so that it did not block aisles or doors.
If something fell onto the tracks, passengers were told to inform staff immediately and never jump down themselves. The BTS wished everyone a pleasant, and preferably hair-free, journey.
Overreaction or sensible consideration?
In crowded trains, even small disturbances could become a serious nuisance or cause minor injury. The hair guidance from BTS might have sounded unusual but was intended to encourage more attentiveness in cramped conditions.
The appeal raised a broader question for urban transport: were such reminders necessary to maintain comfort and safety, or would common sense and social norms be enough to regulate behaviour on their own?