SRT goes on strike nationwide

The labour union of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) on Monday had gone on strike nationwide in protest against the state enterprise's plan to restructure itself.

Labour union president Sawit Kaewwan said all SRT employees had jointly stopped working, halting all rail services across the country.

The employees opposed the plan to allow a private company to manage their operation, he said.

He said the labour union had previously submitted a proposal on ways to improve the organisation to the SRT board, but they insisted on the same privatisation plan, which would lead to higher fares.

Mr Sawit said he could not tell how long the nationwide strike will last, but it would depend on the negotiations with the government and SRT governor Yutthana Thapcharoen.

Mr Yutthana said he was informed that the strike was prepared on Sunday night, but there were some groups of employees who may not comprehend the purpose of the restructuring plan.

He said he will meet and negotiate with Mr Sawit on Tuesday at 3pm.

Negotiations can take place but the employees must not cause troubles to the general public, he said.

The governor insisted the restructuring plan will not privatise the state enterprise, but it will set up two companies to oversee its assets and the Airport Link project.

He said commuters can ask for more information about the rail services by calling the SRT hotline at 1690.