Mr Supawatkan Kunnarak, an official from Chalong Municipality and Chalong Traffic Police were called to investigate an incident at 1pm on Saturday where it was reported that a bus carrying Chinese tourist had been forced to stop in the middle of Chao Fa West Rd in front of S P Stainless Construction Co Ltd.
Upon arrival at the scene, the driver, Mr Kathawuth Kulbuth, 29, told police he had picked up tourists from Chalong Pier and was heading north along Chao Fa West Rd, when he attempted to make a turn in front of Wat Chalong he noticed a problem with the vehicle’s steering.
“I noticed a problem with the steering so I slowed down. The problem was getting worse as I approached Baan Chalong School so I again tried to force the steering wheel but it wouldn’t turn so I was forced to stop in front of SP Stainless,” he said.
“I checked under the bus and discovered loose wires were hanging from the steering system. I called the bus company to arrange a news bus be delivered so that I could transport the tourists,” he added.
Luckily, workers from S P Stainless Construction Co Ltd were able to help reconnect the loose wires to the steering system and Mr Kathawuth and the tourists were able to continue on their journey at 5:15pm.
Mr Supawatkan said that all bus companies must check all systems on their buses regularly and keep records of all maintenance carried out.
“Safety is a must for public transport, and drivers must drive with caution at all times,” he said.