The main bus terminal in Chiang Rai province expected more than 10,000 travellers per day travelling to Bangkok and had over 30 spare buses ready to transport those who had not purchased tickets in advance.

Officials are screening bus drivers for alcohol abuse before departures, with two drivers alternating every four hours for journeys over 400 kilometres.

The bus terminal in Uthai Thani was also flooded with passengers waiting to depart to Bangkok. The terminal did not allow advanced bookings, but expected to accommodate all passengers by 8pm last night. Vehicles underwent inspection, while alcohol tests were conducted on drivers prior to departure.

Passengers are encouraged to report reckless driving via the 1584 hotline.

Many residents originally from Yala province also made their way back to work in other provinces, after spending the New Year holidays in their hometowns.

A large number of passengers were seen boarding trains at Yala Railway Station to return to other provinces, especially Bangkok, returning either to work or school. As the New Year celebrations came to an end, every train leaving for the capital was reportedly full.

Local media also reported holiday-makers boarding trains with gifts for friends, colleagues and loved ones in Bangkok. Many tourists who left Yala during the break also returned to the province, as most businesses return to normal operating hours today.

Security officials at Yala Railway Station remained on duty to ensure safety for holidaymakers and facilitate their trips out of the province.