Bangkok: Railway workers have extended their gratitude to the Cabinet following the approval of increased special welfare payments for officials working in risk areas within the southern border provinces. This decision also includes additional payments for officials stationed outside these risk zones but whose duties require them to work within these areas.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Wirit Amrapal, Governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), announced that on June 10, 2025, the Cabinet sanctioned the SRT’s proposal, put forward by the Ministry of Transport, to enhance welfare payments. This decision addresses the need for increased support, as the current payment of 2,500 baht per person per month, established in 2008, does not extend to officials whose primary offices are outside the designated special areas but whose work necessitates their presence in these zones. This includes roles such as train crews, route and signal maintenance technicians, public relations personnel, and special train u
nits.

To incentivize workers in these areas, the Cabinet has approved a payment increase from 2,500 baht to 3,500 baht per month for 219 workers whose offices are within the special areas. Workers who spend 15 days or more in these regions are eligible for the same monthly rate. Additionally, for 115 workers operating daily on trains (22 trains in total) and whose offices are outside the risk zones, a special welfare payment of 233.33 baht per day has been approved. They, too, can earn up to 3,500 baht per month if they work in the area for at least 15 days.

The policy also extends to workers based in Songkhla Province, beyond the five districts designated as special areas, and those involved in the 4th Bridge Repair Project under the Civil Engineering Division, which has responsibilities in the southern region. Although their office is in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, these 165 individuals occasionally work in special areas and will receive 233.33 baht per day, or up to 3,500 baht per month for 15 days or
more of work in these zones.

“The board of directors, executives, and the State Railway of Thailand Labor Union prioritize the needs of officials in the risk areas of the southern border provinces. We aim to alleviate their challenges and demonstrate that the organization acknowledges the difficulties they face. We extend our thanks to the Cabinet for their recognition of the significance of our personnel’s efforts in these areas. The welfare adjustment takes effect from the date of Cabinet approval,” stated Mr. Amrapal.