Thai Observer Praises Bus Drivers9 Courtesy

Press, Volume C, Issue 29699, 18 December 1961, Page 16

Thai Observer Praises Bus Drivers 9 Courtesy

(New Zealand Press Association)

WELLINGTON, Dec. 17. “Your bus drivers not only drive a bus, but operate it—that is they even assist women passengers by handing out the prams for their children. Yet I never saw any evidence of bad temper, nor heard on-? angry word. That is very good indeed.” said Mr Pichai Nopakoon, of Bangkok. who has been studying the New Zealand transport system for the last six months. He will leave on his return to Thailand next week with a lasting impression of both the efficiency and patience of bus-drivers in this country. Mr Pichai was awarded a fellowship under the United Nations technical assistance programme. In Bangkok he is a member of the staff of the Express Transportation Organisation, a self-supporting Government organisation, which was established 14 years ago It has expanded from 18 trucks to a fleet of 450. This is not Mr Pichai’s first trip abroad. Some time ago he was sent to xokyo to study the transportation system there. “Here in New Zealand it is comparatively simple. But Tokyo with its enormous traffic, particularly

at peak hours, presents many problems,” he said. “While I have beeifi here I have had the opportunity of travelling throughout both islands—even to most remote places. Wherever 1 went I received the utmost courtesy and kindness. I am very grateful to all who have made my stay here both enjoyable and useful.” Mr Pichai has studied with the Railways and Transport Departments, the Wellington and Dunedin City Councils, the Auckland and Christchurch Transport Boards, and several private companies in different parts of the country.