Bangkok: The Department of Disease Control, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), has initiated a national master plan to curb motorcycle accidents, aiming at systematically reducing road casualties. The initiative is part of an integrated Safe System Approach that targets people, vehicles, roads, the environment, and management systems. This plan follows findings that over 17,000 people die annually in road accidents in Thailand, with more than 80% involving motorcycle users.
According to Thai News Agency, the project, titled 'Improving Motorized Two-wheeler Safety in Thailand,' was launched by Dr. Montien Kanasawasdi, Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, with Dr. Anek Mung-aomklang, Deputy Director-General, presiding over the event. Key figures from WHO, UN-Habitat, UNESCAP, and various academic and governmental bodies were present to support the initiative.
Dr. Anek Mung-aomklang highlighted that the most affected group in these accidents are individuals aged 15-29, who constitute 32% of motorcycle fatalities, while 20% of fatalities occur among the elderly. Alarmingly, only 43% of general motorcycle users wear helmets, and among those injured or killed, only 15% were wearing helmets, indicating a significant gap in current safety measures.
He further explained that motorcycle accidents also result in economic losses exceeding 1.7 trillion baht annually. The master plan developed under the Safe System Approach, with in-depth data analysis, aims to tailor safety measures to the Thai context. Successful implementation will require collaboration across all sectors, including government, private entities, civil society, and the public, to foster safer roads.
Dr. Olivia Corazon Nieveras of WHO emphasized that the action plan reflects Thailand's commitment to enhancing motorcycle safety through evidence-based measures. The plan aligns with the Global Action Plan for the Second Decade of Action on Road Safety 2021-2030, with the UN providing specialized expertise in public health, injury prevention, and transportation planning.
Thailand is among the countries chosen for targeted support under the United Nations Road Safety Fund, signifying its leadership in tackling motorcycle safety issues. The Department of Disease Control believes that with concerted efforts, Thailand can significantly reduce motorcycle fatalities and ensure sustainable safety for its citizens.