3-12-2023 (BANGKOK) The Thailand Consumer Council (TCC) is urging the Transport Ministry to enforce a flat fare of 20 baht for the mass rapid transit system. Speaking at a seminar dedicated to the 20-baht flat train rate, Saree Aungsomwang, the secretary-general of the TCC, announced on Saturday that the council is committed to pursuing its petition for a reduced flat rate until it achieves success.
Aungsomwang highlighted the results of research conducted by the council, asserting that a 20-baht flat rate would generate sufficient revenue to cover the operational expenses of the electric train route. Emphasizing the environmental benefits, she argued that making public transport more affordable could reduce pollution, especially considering that only 25% of Thai consumers currently use public transportation.
“The TCC is promoting public transport among commuters, but ticket costs should be less than 10% of a minimum wage (approximately 350 baht in Bangkok), so we will keep pushing for a 20-baht cap,” stated Ms. Aungsomwang.
Kongsak Cheunkrailart, assistant secretary of the TCC’s transport subcommittee, revealed findings from a survey of 2,500 commuters on the new Pink Line service. The majority expressed a desire for a flat rate, similar to those implemented on the Red and Purple Lines. In the survey, 69.8% believed a flat rate would reduce travel expenses and encourage more people to use the service.
Approximately 55% of respondents considered fares ranging from 15 baht to 45 baht for the Pink Line, scheduled to go commercial next month, too expensive. They advocated for a flat rate, ideally not exceeding 27 baht.
Meanwhile, the Bangkok Consumer Network, representing electric railway users, echoed the sentiment that a single price could promote greater use of public transport.
Atiphu Jittanukrao, deputy director-general of the Department of Rail Transport (DRT), acknowledged the immediate increase in passengers on the Red and Purple lines following the introduction of revised pricing on Oct 16. However, he stressed the need for careful consideration due to the substantial decrease in revenue, from 660,000 to 500,000 baht per day for the Red Line and from 1,000,000 baht to 600,000 baht for the Purple Line.
To advance the flat rate policy, a committee must thoroughly examine all proposals and invite TCC members to actively participate, according to Jittanukrao.
