Bangkok, a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant street life and cultural landmarks, is abuzz with yet another forward-thinking initiative by the government. The Minister of Transport, Suriya Juangroongruangkit, announced on a recent Monday that a new flat fare policy is being proposed for the city’s train system. The policy proposal, assuring a flat fare of 20 baht, will be presented for cabinet approval on October 16 and is expected to be implemented swiftly thereafter.
The fiscally-friendly policy initiative is intended to first apply to the Purple and Red train lines of the city. Mr. Suriya communicated his conviction that, bearing the cabinet approval on October 16, the 20-baht flat fare scheme should be operational promptly rather than waiting for December 1, the date previously approved by the State Railway of Thailand. Although a more particular date is yet to be announced, the minister’s commitment to expedite the policy spoke volumes.
Originally, Minister Suriya intended to propose the plan for acceptance this week. However, given that Prime Minister Srettha Thavasin is currently on an international assignment, the proposition will be tabled the following week. Commuters are anticipated to be able to take advantage of the 20-baht flat fare using a credit card or an ATM card, making the whole process hassle-free and efficient.
In the current scenario, the fares for the Purple Line vary between 14 and 42 baht, and for the Red Line, they fall within the range of 12 to 42 baht. Thus, the new fare policy will certainly be a relief for commuters and foster enhanced ridership. The two prominent commuter lines comprising a substantial segment of the city’s public transport system, are about to become even more attractive with the introduction of this initiative.
The Red Line, a 41 kilometer stretch comprising 13 stations, links Taling Chan and Rangsit. Concurrently, the MRT Purple Line, which runs over a span of 23 kilometers, has 16 stations and connects Bang Sue and Khlong Bang Phai. This decision by the government underlines its commitment to ease the citizen’s daily commute while addressing financial constaints, making Bangkok an even more flourishing city.
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