BANGKOK, Thailand – The Department of Rail Transport (DRT) has launched a fact-finding investigation and suspended a female train driver following reports of her screaming while operating a commuter train on the Red Line.
The incident occurred on April 7, 2026, at approximately 2:30 p.m. on a train traveling between Rangsit and Don Mueang stations. Passengers reported hearing repeated screams from the driver’s cabin, which only stopped after a passenger knocked on the door.
Pichet Kunadhamraks, Director-General of the DRT, stated on Wednesday that the driver has been temporarily removed from duty pending the investigation. Authorities are also reviewing her operating license.
Preliminary findings suggest the driver was completing her final shift of the day when the incident occurred. Officials believe personal issues combined with accumulated work stress may have triggered the behavior. Although the driver completed the route to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, the department noted that the operator, SRT Electrified Train Co., Ltd. (SRTET), does not currently require mental health evaluations for its drivers prior to employment.
The DRT cited the Rail Transport Act, which allows the Director-General to order medical or competency tests if a staff member’s fitness is in question. The department has instructed SRTET to tighten its screening processes for both physical and mental health to ensure passenger safety. (TNA)
