BANGKOK, THAILAND – Authorities tightened controls on taxis and other public transport around the CentralWorld shopping district, flagging 14 drivers for various violations.
Checks in one of Bangkok’s priciest districts
Between 27 February and 4 March, the Department of Land Transport (DLT) sent inspection teams to Ratchadamri Road in the zone around CentralWorld and Big C Ratchadamri.
The area was regarded as a hub for shopping, hotels and transfers, which increased pressure to ensure passengers were moved quickly and in line with regulations.
DLT chief sets goal of smoother rides for locals and visitors
Sorapong Paitoonphong, director-general of the DLT, said the operation was intended to improve convenience and reliability for commuters and visitors.
In Bangkok, the first contact with a taxi often determined whether holidaymakers felt safe or opted instead for alternatives such as apps or hotel counters.
14 violations ranging from uniforms to unpaid tax
Inspectors identified a total of 14 legal violations, indicating a lack of compliance and in some cases missing vehicle checks.
Offences included six drivers wearing non-compliant uniforms and two vehicles operating without paid annual vehicle tax.
Taximeters, equipment – and one refusal to take passengers
In three cases, vehicles had not been presented for mandatory taximeter inspections, which in everyday life could quickly lead to disputes over fares and billing.
There was also one case of passenger refusal, one of illegal additional lighting and one driver who had not displayed his driving licence visibly.
Fines and warnings focused on meters and service obligations
The authorities imposed penalties and issued warnings, coupled with a reminder to follow regulations and use taximeters correctly.
At the same time, the DLT stressed that rejecting passengers must stop in order not to damage the country’s tourism image.