Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has firmly stated that the government plans to refrain from extending the Don Muang Tollway’s operational concession for the current operator, Don Muang Tollway Plc, as a trade-off for maintaining fixed toll fees. This announcement debunked recent news suggesting that an extension was under consideration to prevent the toll from being increased by 5 to 10 baht starting in December.
According to findings from a study led by the Department of Highways (DoH), Minister Suriya explained that extending the concession is not a feasible solution for keeping the toll rates unchanged until the existing concession period concludes. “It’s simply not worthwhile,” he emphasized.
Previously, Minister Suriya had disclosed plans from the tollway operator to hike the fees on December 22. Subsequently, the minister demanded a study to scrutinize the feasibility of an extended concession in exchange for not increasing the fees.
Before the concession’s expiration in 2034, the operator possesses the option to implement two additional toll increases: one scheduled for this December and a second one in December 2029. Minister Suriya indicated that post-expiration, a new tollway management strategy and pricing model will be developed. “We are asking motorists to stay patient while we deal with the issue,” he stated, also mentioning that the ministry would try to negotiate periodic discounts for tollway users.
Currently, motorists are availing a 5% discount, but Minister Suriya pointed out that a more substantial discount would be preferable. The DoH is actively engaged in conversations with the tollway operator regarding this matter.
The toll fees, which fluctuate from 40 to 170 baht depending on the vehicle’s size and distance traveled, were highlighted by an insider.
According to Sarawut Songsivilai, DoH director-general, the department’s study suggested that post-concession, the toll fees could potentially be reduced to as low as 20 baht or might even be completely abolished.
I’m so glad they aren’t extending the concession just to keep the toll fees stable for a bit longer. It’s better to think long-term.
But what about the short-term? People are already struggling. A toll hike would be a disaster!
Short-term pain for long-term gain. Sometimes it’s necessary.
Exactly, Pranee. But we can’t keep putting bandaids on problems. We need sustainable solutions.
Not everyone can afford to think long-term when they’re worried about paying the toll next month!
Why can’t they just freeze the toll rates for good? We pay enough taxes!
Freezing tolls means the government has to find money elsewhere, usually from our taxes. It’s a double-edged sword.
It’s simple economics. The current revenue model has its limitations and freezing tolls isn’t a sustainable plan.
I support the government’s decision. No more extensions, it’s about time we plan properly.
Planning properly means doing what’s best for people, not just for the economy.
True, but sometimes tough decisions need to be made for the greater good.
I think both can be balanced if thought through correctly.
I think it makes more sense to introduce periodic discounts instead of a fixed low rate. Keeps the operator happy and helps drivers too.
Or they could just reduce the tolls permanently. Why should there be discounts?
Permanent reductions might not be viable long-term. Discounts are a good compromise.
Discounts feel like a slap on the wrist instead of a real solution.
A potential toll decrease after 2034 sounds promising. I just hope they don’t backtrack on it.
Promises are easily made but seldom kept. Let’s see what happens.
It’s crucial that citizen groups keep the pressure on the government to stick to these promises.
How about investing in better public transport instead? That way fewer people would need to use the tollway at all.
Ironically, the funds saved from tolls can potentially be used for improving public transport.
Absolutely, a robust public transport system would alleviate many issues at once.
Exactly! It’s time we think beyond cars and tolls.
I’ve been using this tollway for years. Consistent rates would have been better.
I’m skeptical of any promises made by politicians. They change their tune too often.
A 5% discount barely makes a difference. They should aim for at least 20%.
What about electronic toll collection? Will this help?
A potential toll fee reduction to 20 baht post-2034? I’ll believe it when I see it.
Motorists need a break. Toll hikes are too much!
Honestly, why don’t they just abolish the tolls completely after 2034?
Free services usually mean poor maintenance. Be careful what you wish for.
Perhaps, but abolishing them would ease a lot of financial burden off people.
This piecemeal approach is frustrating. Just decide on a clear path forward!
Negotiating more substantial discounts could be a good interim solution.
I’m tired of these ‘studies’ that lead to nothing. Action is what we need.
Studies are necessary to make informed decisions. Impulsive actions can backfire.