Caretaker Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit has revealed plans to extend the 20-baht flat fare policy to all commuter train routes by September 2025. Originally introduced on the Red Line suburban train and the MRT Purple Line in October 2023, the policy has resulted in a 26% rise in passenger numbers as of June 2024.
Suriya stated that the current fare structure, set to expire on November 30, will be continued under the new government. A draft bill is in the works to establish a standard ticketing system, making the flat fare applicable across all routes. This initiative aims to lower commuting costs and boost public transport usage.
The transport minister also discussed the government’s consideration of repurchasing operating rights for electric train projects from private operators, ensuring lower fares for the public while providing fair compensation for contractors. The Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning is currently examining the feasibility of a congestion fee to further support public transport infrastructure, with the assistance of UK PACT, a British government initiative.