Amid the animated discussions surrounding the colossal 3.48 trillion Thai baht budget for the fiscal year of 2024, the room buzzed with a mix of skepticism and anticipation. Suriya, standing firm amidst the whirlwind of economic forecasts and fiscal strategies, was not merely presenting a budget—he was advocating for a transformative vision for his country’s transportation and logistics sectors. His voice carried the weight of positive change aimed at alleviating the financial pressures on the Thai populace.
Imagine a Thailand where each saved baht twinkles like a star of hope in the night sky, where the promise of equality is not just a whisper but a resounding commitment. “Once their expenses drop, people will be able to save more cash. The policy also creates equality,” Suriya declared with an air of conviction, facing the assembly. The fare for the SRT Red Line and the MRT Purple Line has been pegged at a mere 20 baht, an amount so small it’s akin to finding spare change in the couch cushions—yet it holds the promise of grand societal savings.
Now, let’s play a game of myth-busting with Suriya as he dismantles the MPs’ accusations like a maestro! The claim? The 20-baht electric train fare policy would cause a whopping loss north of 1 billion baht. The reality, on the other hand, sings a different tune. With the finesse of a seasoned economist, Suriya elucidated that the Red and Purple lines were previously bleeding money to the depressing tune of 6.9 million baht every single day. The introduction of the 20-baht fare wasn’t a financial blunder, oh no—it was a masterstroke that sent passenger numbers soaring like a majestic eagle climbing the thermals.
And the crescendo of this symphony? Revenues from the two train lines spiking within a mere three months of implementing this policy. Talk about a plot twist! “I believe that in six months, once the feeder system at stations is in place, the two lines will generate enough revenue to cover expenses, and will even turn profitable,” Suriya assured the floor with the confidence of a gambler holding a royal flush.
But wait, there’s more! The ministry is not just hitting the accelerator, they’re turbocharging the promotion of the joint ticket act. What does this mean for you and me? The 20-baht fare is about to become part of an even larger, more comprehensive fare policy. Picture a future where seamless travel across multiple lines doesn’t require a degree in rocket science or a fat wallet. This initiative isn’t just about convenience; it’s also about crafting a safety net in the form of a fund to cushion train operators from losses. The curtain is yet to rise on this act, as it awaits the cabinet’s discerning eyes.
Now, for the pièce de résistance—no additional budget will burden the already mammoth 3.48 trillion baht budget. Instead, revenue streaming in from the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand and the State Railway of Thailand will champion the cause. Think of it as financial sustainability doing a graceful ballet with fiscal responsibility. Suriya’s presentation wasn’t just a budget deliberation; it was a clarion call for a brighter, more viable economic future that everyone can board—like a train to a better tomorrow.
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