BANGKOK, 22 February 2012 – Commuters are expected to brace themselves for a price hike of 1 baht for MRT services starting on July 3.
The Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) board has resolved to permit a fare raise for MRT rides according to the concession agreement which grants the Bangkok Metro Company Limited (BMCL) the authority to increase MRT fares every two years. The positive consumer price index in September 2011 has indicated a need to adjust the minimum fare upward by 1 baht. Thus, the current fare range of 15-40 baht will be adjusted to 16-40 baht. The MRTA board stated that commuters will not be impacted by this minor change.
The MRTA will be proposing the price adjustment to the Ministry of Transport to await further approval from the cabinet. The new fee is scheduled to come into effect on July 3, 2012.
Currently, the standard fare for MRT services stands at 15-40 baht, depending on the journey distance. Children under the age of 14 whose height is less than 90 cm. are entitled to free rides. Meanwhile, children and senior citizens are charged at a discounted price of 8-20 baht. Student card holders aged under 23 are charged at 13-33 baht.
