The Transport Ministry plans to adopt the “London Model” for collecting traffic congestion fees in central Bangkok.
Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, who is also the deputy prime minister, announced on Tuesday that he has tasked the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) with swiftly studying this model and the methods for implementing congestion fees in heavily trafficked areas. This study will cover fee rates, payment methods, and successful practices from countries such as England, Singapore, Stockholm, and Italy.
“We anticipate completing this study within six months, by 2025. Additionally, new laws may need to be drafted, as under the current legislation, the government lacks the authority to impose congestion fees, which is under the jurisdiction of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA),” he stated.
Minister Suriya noted that an initial survey conducted through the ministry’s social media indicated that 60% of respondents were initially in favor of the congestion fee. However, support declined as more people expressed opposition due to insufficient information about the project. He emphasized the need to communicate details to the public quickly, particularly regarding who will be charged and which areas will be affected.
He clarified that residents living in the areas subject to the fees would be exempt. The revenue generated from these fees will be placed into an infrastructure fund managed by the Ministry of Finance, with part of the funds allocated for purchasing back concessions for electric train lines and supporting the government’s initiative for 20-baht fares across all electric train routes.
According to ministry spokesman Kritchanon Aiyapanya, Thailand will implement the London Model, with support for the study provided by the United Kingdom Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions (UK PACT) project.
In London, the Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) camera system is used to collect tolls, covering a 21-square-kilometer area in the city center. Fees are enforced from Monday to Friday, 7 am to 6 pm, and on weekends from noon to 6 pm, excluding public holidays. The daily charge is 15 pounds (approximately 658 baht).
As a result of its implementation, congestion in London has decreased by 16%, Mr. Kritchanon added.
