Unified Electric Rail Fare System Proposal Nears Cabinet Approval
A new proposal to implement a unified fare system for the nation’s electric rail network, capping individual trip costs between 17 and 45 baht, is on track for cabinet consideration and likely approval. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn presented the plan, aimed at alleviating financial burdens for commuters by allowing seamless transfers between different metro lines without incurring multiple entry fees.
Currently, passengers face additional base fares each time they switch rail lines. This proposed change seeks to streamline the process and reduce overall travel expenses for daily commuters.
Reclaiming Rail Concessions Under Review
To facilitate this new fare policy, the Ministry of Transport is investigating methods to regain control of existing rail concessions presently managed by private entities. Two primary funding strategies are under consideration to support this transition.
The first approach involves securing capital through the Thailand Future Fund, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance. However, this avenue may require an estimated one to two years to navigate regulatory requirements.
Alternatively, the second option proposes that private operators continue providing rail services under management contracts. Concurrently, the concession rights would be transferred back to the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA).
Fare Structure and Negotiation Timeline
Minister Phiphat indicated that the ministry is considering introducing the new fare structure even before finalizing negotiations with current private concessionaires. Under the proposed system, a one-way journey would cost a minimum of 17 baht and a maximum of 45 baht, irrespective of the number of line transfers made.
It was clarified that return journeys would be charged separately. The Minister acknowledged the intricate nature of repurchasing these concessions.
