BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s rail system saw a surge in passenger usage during the Songkran holiday, with authorities adding special train services to accommodate returning passengers.
Director-General of the Department of Rail Transport (DRT) Pichet Kunathamaraks reported that rail passenger numbers rose significantly during the Songkran festival, with 1.23 million trips recorded on April 13 alone. This total exceeded initial estimates by 13 percent.
Urban mass transit systems accounted for most travel, with 1.14 million trips. The Green Line had the highest volume due to its connection to major water-splashing sites, including Siam Square and Silom Road. The Gold Line saw a 45 percent increase in passengers above projections, driven by festivities at ICONSIAM.
Inter-city rail services accommodated over 82,000 passengers, with the Southern and Northeastern lines experiencing the highest demand. The DRT confirmed that no passengers were left stranded at stations. Rail operators have been instructed to strictly enforce crowd management protocols to ensure safety. Passengers are also asked to empty water containers before entering stations to prevent slipping hazards.
As commuters return to Bangkok today (April 14, 2026), the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has added special trains from Nakhon Ratchasima, Yala, and Chiang Mai. The SRT also advised motorists to exercise caution at railway crossings and urged the public not to burn grass near tracks to prevent delays and accidents. (NNT)
