BANGKOK, 28 July 2015 – The Cabinet has resolved to maintain its free bus and train scheme for another three months as a way to help low-income commuters amid economic doldrums.
According to Transport Minister ACM Prajin Juntong, the fare exemption on public buses and third-class trains which was due to expire at the end of July has been given another three-month extension by the Cabinet. As a result, the long-standing measure will continue to be in effect from August 1 to October 31, 2015 as proposed by the Ministry of Transport.
Meanwhile, Deputy Government Spokesperson Maj Gen Sansern Kaewkamnerd stated that the further continuation of free train services will cover a total of 172 trains per day and require a state budget of 252 million baht. At the same time, there will be 800 free buses operating on 73 routes each day under a budget of 871 million baht.
Maj Gen Sansern cited the Prime Minister as saying that the fare exemption measure is intended to serve certain groups of people who are truly in need of the government’s support, such as students and low-income earners. The unfavorable economic condition was raised as the main reason behind the Cabinet’s decision to keep the measure in place.
