Train strike brings country to partial halt

Routes that have been suspended are: Bangkok-Den Chai; Nakhon Sawan-Chiang Mai; Lop Buri-Nakhon Sawan; Taphan Hin-Bangkok; Phitsanulok-Lop Buri; and Silaart-Bangkok.

Among other routes affected are: Udon Thani-Nakhon Ratchasima; Nakhon Ratchasima-Bua Yai; Bangkok-Ubon Ratchathani; Kaeng Khoi-Khon Kaen; Yala-Sungai Kolok; Sungai

Kolok-Nakhon Si Thammarat; Hat Yai-Chumphon; and Hat Yai-Sungai Kolok.

Authorities say all passengers can get refunds, as it is unclear when the strike will end.

State Railway of Thailand deputy governor Thawin Sarmnakhon is urging people to call the 1690 hotline to check which routes are affected.

In Khon Kaen, 24yearold Akarapon Khorrosklang said he could not afford a bus back to Bangkok. "My budget is limited and trains are always cheaper," he said.

In Yala, more than 2,000 passengers were left stranded.

Meanwhile, in Bangkok, not a single sprinter train left for its destination yesterday, leaving many passengers frustrated.

"I've never encountered a situation like this before. I hope both parties talk to each other. Please don't leave people in trouble," said passenger Somchai Boonpama. He was hoping to visit his hometown in Si Sa Ket two days ago.