PHITSANULOK — The most dangerous railroad crossing in this northern province got a little less hazardous Wednesday after transport ministry workers put up warning signs and upgraded the landscape at the previously unguarded intersection.
The level crossing in front of Wat Phrakul Warararm in tambon Buang Phra of Muang district has been the scene of countless car-train collisions causing dozens of deaths and injuries in recent years. The latest fatality came on June 12 when a man was killed and another seriously injured when a Bangkok-bound train tore their pickup truck in half.
The ministry's Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning selected the Wat Phrakul Warararm crossing for a pilot programme to prevent accidents caused by careless motorists in the province. The move is in line with the State Railway of Thailand's policy to provide safety measures at ad hoc crossings nationwide.
Authorities on Wednesday adjusted areas around the crossing, erected a warning light and repainted road marking to make the crossing more visible for motorists. In a bid to draw attention from passers-by and drivers, they also erected a large vinyl banner bearing the message: "A train cannot fly; you will surely die if you fail to stop".
The sign also bears images of an Angel of Death holding a trident, a train and a pickup truck.
Last month, two women were badly hurt when their car was struck by a train at the crossing. Residents said most of those injured or killed were from other provinces and all failed to see a train approaching. Accidents continued even after authorities cut grass along the tracks making the oncoming train clearly visible.
According to Transport Minister Prajin Juntong, there are at least 2,517 railway crossings in Thailand, of which 1,933 are legal. Locals created at least 584 more ad hoc crossings as short cuts.
The State Railway of Thailand has allowed the crossings to stand, but had refused to install barriers. It also posted a disclaimer exempting it from liability in case of accidents.