Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit is advocating for the implementation of a flat fare of 20 baht across all electric train lines by September 2025, facilitated by a unified ticketing system.
This announcement was made on Thursday following an interview with Move Forward Party MP Surachet Pravinvongvuth, who criticized Suriya’s lack of accomplishments during his tenure, particularly the absence of the promised 20-baht fare.
Currently, the 20-baht fare is only applicable to the Red and Purple lines.
Suriya reiterated his commitment to ensuring that all mass rapid transit services will charge a maximum of 20 baht per trip by September 25, 2025. He stated, “I will demonstrate to you [Mr. Surachet] that I can achieve this.”
The ministry is currently drafting legislation for a unified ticketing system management law. Previous governments have attempted to encourage transit operators to adopt a unified system for public convenience without success over the past 15 years.
The proposed law aims to enable passengers to utilize any mode of public transport with a single ticket, thereby capping electric train fares at 20 baht.
Fares on the MRT and BTS systems currently vary based on distance, ranging from 17 to 43 baht and 15 to 62 baht respectively.
The ministry plans to establish a fund to reimburse business operators for the expenses incurred in implementing the 20-baht fare. The total cost of these subsidies is yet to be determined and will be presented to the cabinet for approval.
Suriya expressed his openness to criticism but rejected Surachet’s insults, emphasizing the importance of the 20-baht fare in alleviating financial burdens on commuters. He believes that the flat-rate fare will encourage greater use of trains, ultimately aiding in the reduction of air pollution.
