The Department of Highways (DoH) yesterday opened "Surat Gateway", a unique vehicle rest area adorned with sculptures of fruits and food.

The rest point is located by the roadside on Highway 41 that passes through Wiang Sa police's service point in Surat Thani province. As car accidents are common in the area, the Surat Thani 3 Highway District came up with the idea to build a rest area for drivers to take a break to reduce their fatigue levels.

DoH director-general Sarawut Songsivilai also supported the Surat Thani 3 Highway District's idea to make the rest area more fun and interesting, which he said would help promote tourism.

In the rest area, pavilions have been erected that reflect local architecture, specifically designed for drivers, passengers and tourists to enjoy. The highlight displays are large concrete statues that show signature fruits and foods of Surat Thani province, such as Na San rambutan, Chaiya preserved eggs and Kanchanadit oysters and cockles. The DoH expects the "Surat Gateway" will become a new popular spot for motorists to relax, unwind and take selfies.