Thailand's Royal Thai Police will commence a nationwide enforcement campaign on June 1, targeting motorcyclists and their passengers who fail to wear crash helmets.

Offenders will face fines of up to 2,000 baht, a significant increase from the previous penalty of 500 baht.

The initiative is part of the "Safe Roads Project," led by Police Lieutenant General Nitithorn Jintakanon, head of the Traffic Police Image Enhancement Taskforce.

The campaign aims to enhance road safety awareness and improve traffic discipline across the country.

Provincial police units have been instructed to identify and monitor high-risk areas, including roads with frequent traffic violations and those near educational institutions.

Enforcement efforts will focus on ensuring compliance with helmet regulations in these zones.

Under the new directive, both motorcycle drivers and passengers are required to wear helmets at all times while riding.

Repeat offenders may incur double penalties, emphasizing the authorities' commitment to reducing fatalities and injuries among motorcyclists.

This enforcement aligns with broader amendments to Thailand's traffic laws, which have introduced harsher penalties for various violations.

For instance, fines for speeding, running red lights, and failing to stop for pedestrians at zebra crossings have increased to 4,000 baht.

Additionally, driving against traffic or not wearing safety equipment, such as helmets and seat belts, now carries a fine of 2,000 baht.

The Royal Thai Police have also emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding these new regulations.

Educational campaigns and community engagement initiatives are being implemented to inform citizens about the changes and encourage compliance.

These measures reflect the government's ongoing efforts to enhance road safety and reduce traffic-related incidents throughout the country.