Thailand has opened the first of its planned 41 truck stops across the country with the inauguration of the first in Nakhon Ratchasima in northeastern Thailand.

The National News Bureau of Thailand reports that the establishment of the truck rest area is to accommodate the Ministry of Transport’s policy aimed at reducing traffic accidents, and fostering transport safety and connectivity in preparation for the emergence of ASEAN Economic Community (AEC). A budget of B44 million (US$1.276 million) has been approved for construction. 

The rest area comprises parking lots for trucks and passenger vehicles, washrooms, food outlets and convenience stores. Security cameras have also been installed around the area to ensure safety.