Bangkok: Starting tomorrow, the M6 route between Bang Pa-in and Pak Chong will be open for trial use, free of charge, every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This initiative is part of a government effort to alleviate short-term travel costs for the public.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ploytalay Laksmisangchan, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, announced that in accordance with the Quick Win policy, the Department of Highways under the Ministry of Transport has expedited the opening of the Bang Pa-In-Nakhon Ratchasima section of the M6 Motorway (Highway No. 6) on a trial basis. This strategic move aims to facilitate continuous travel from Bang Pa-In to Nakhon Ratchasima, thereby reducing travel expenses for commuters from Bangkok and nearby regions, and easing traffic congestion on Mittraphap Road, especially during holidays and long weekends.
Ms. Ploytalay further explained that the Department of Highways is prepared to open the 110-kilometer section from Bang Pa-in to Pak Chong for trial use without tolls. This initiative is designed to accommodate increased traffic volume on weekends. The route will be available every Friday from 12:00 PM (noon) until Sunday at 12:00 AM (midnight), starting from August 21, 2026, and will continue weekly until the New Year holiday in 2027. Plans are underway to eventually open the entire route for free use, 24/7.
For those traveling on the M6 route between Bang Pa-in and Pak Chong on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, starting from August 21, 2026, specific guidelines have been outlined. Departures from Bangkok can utilize the M6 route from Bang Pa-in toll booth, exiting at Pak Chong on Thanarat Road or continuing to the Nakhon Ratchasima bypass. On return trips to Bangkok, due to ongoing roadwork on the inbound side, travelers from Pak Chong should use Thanarat Road and Mittraphap Road to reach the Muak Lek toll booth before accessing the M6 highway.
Entry and exit points include the Bang Pa-in, Hin Kong, Kaeng Khoi, Muak Lek, and Pak Chong toll plazas. Two rest areas, located at kilometer 65, will offer restrooms and beverages, though they lack gas stations and electric vehicle charging stations.
Ms. Ploytalay emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic signs and official instructions for safe travel. She urged the public to monitor official updates regarding scheduled dates, times, entry and exit points, and facilities via the Department of Highways and Ministry of Transport's public relations channels for accurate information and convenient journey planning. The Department of Highways hotline, 1586, is available 24 hours a day for route inquiries or emergencies.