Bangkok: The Department of Transportation is taking decisive action against vehicles with drivers exhibiting inappropriate behavior, such as using rude language and reckless speeding. The ride-hailing app market has seen significant growth due to the digital lifestyle; however, passenger complaints remain a pressing issue. Traditional taxis alone received 13,725 complaints via telephone during the 2025 fiscal year, with unprofessional conduct and reckless driving consistently topping the list.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sorapong Paitoonpong, Director-General of the Department of Land Transport (DLT), indicated that the DLT currently certifies nine ride-hailing applications for cars and motorcycles. With an increasing number of application providers, two more companies, PapaGo and SwiftGo, have approached the DLT to expand their services. This development reflects the growing trend of app-based ride-hailing services in Thailand, offering new income opportunities and contributing to the country's economic growth.
Complaints regarding driver behavior have been persistent. According to the Public Transport Passenger Protection Center, in the fiscal year 2025, taxi users lodged 13,725 complaints, with 12,535 coming from Bangkok. The primary issues included impolite language and demeanor, reckless driving, fare disputes, circuitous routes, and failure to drop off passengers as agreed. Additionally, there were 88 complaints of behavior suggestive of sexual harassment.
The Department of Land Transport is committed to enforcing laws to ensure public safety with ride-hailing apps. All transportation offices have been instructed to enforce laws equitably. Collaborating with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, the DLT aims to regulate and penalize application service providers in violation of the law, in line with the Digital Platform Business Notification Act B.E. 2565 (2022) and the Electronic Transactions Act B.E. 2544 (2001).
A report from the Consumer Council, in collaboration with Rangsit University, surveyed consumer protection issues related to ride-hailing services in fiscal year 2025. The survey, targeting a sample group from Bangkok and major cities, revealed that the primary users of ride-hailing apps are aged 20-26 years. Key consumer concerns included the potential leakage of personal information and a lack of safety services, such as the absence of helmets.