Airport Rail Link increases security due to protests in Bangkok
The operator of the Airport Rail Link said on Saturday that the Department of Rail Transport has ordered all operators of public rail transport in Bangkok to increase security measures after a state of emergency was declared from Thursday morning.
Suthep Phanpheng, managing director of Electrified Train Co, the Airport Rail Link operator, said: “We will follow the order by increasing security measures as follows:
"Increase the number of security guards and inspection staff throughout the train system as well as increase the frequency of their patrol rounds.
"Check all CCTV camera, communication system and security equipment to make sure that they are functioning properly.
"Prepare an emergency evacuation plan for passengers and staff in case the situation escalates.
"Publicise security measures and latest updates of the situation to passengers periodically."
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha declared a state of emergency in Bangkok effective from 4am on Thursday, to control the escalating rallies by pro-democracy protesters at several venues in Bangkok.
“We would like to ask all passengers to cooperate with security staff who will need to check your belongings before entering the train system,” he added. “If you require assistance or wish to report suspicious activity within the Airport Rail Link system, please contact call centre 1690 or www.srtet.co.th, facebook: AirportRailLink and Twitter: Airport Rail Link.”