Thailand - September 18, 2017

The Daily News, a Thai-language daily newspaper distributed nationwide, recently sat down with Thailand Country Manager Oratai Junsuwanaruk to discuss the progress of the Slow Down to Save Lives program in implementing Bangkok’s first safe speed zone. After three months of working closely with the Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB) and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), we are inching closer to the launch of Bangkok’s first safe speed zone, which will be in front of Yothinburana School and will have a maximum speed limit of 50 km/h. If the pilot safe speed zone yields positive results, we will work with local government and police to expand the project to other areas. Currently, the speed limit in Bangkok is 80 km/h. This is very high compared to other countries in Asia where the speed limit in urban areas is between 50 and 60 km/h, in line with the international best practice as designated by the World Health Organization.

This is one of several interviews involving the Thailand programs team, including one with Bangkok-based FM 99.5 Traffic Radio for Society, to inform the general public about its recent progress with the Slow Down to Save Lives program.The Slow Down to Save Live sprogram is a collaboration between AIP Foundation and the Global Road Safety Partnership (GRSP). The World Health Organization, ThaiRoads, Sidekick, Legal Development Program in Thailand, and other community leaders are supporting the initiative.