BANGKOK, Thailand – Caretaker Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit has announced plans to expand the 20-baht flat fare policy across all commuter train routes by September 2025. The policy, initially rolled out on the Red Line suburban train and the MRT Purple Line in October 2023, has led to a significant 26% increase in passenger numbers as of June 2024.
According to Suriya, the current fare structure, set to expire on November 30, will be extended under the new government. A draft bill is being prepared to implement a standard ticketing system, making the flat fare applicable across all routes and lines. The move is expected to reduce commuting costs and encourage greater use of public transport.
The transport minister also mentioned the government’s plans to consider repurchasing the operating rights for electric train projects from private operators, ensuring that the public benefits from lower fares while maintaining fair compensation for contractors. The Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning is now exploring the feasibility of a congestion fee to further support public transport infrastructure with the assistance of UK PACT, a British government initiative.
