Bangkok ฿45 rail fare cap planned for January 2027

Bangkok authorities are preparing a shared rail fare system that would limit the maximum charge to 45 baht per trip across the capital and surrounding areas from 1 January 2027.The plan would remove duplicate entry fees for passengers changing between rail lines.

Bangkok Deputy Governor Wisanu Sap-Somphon attended the first committee meeting on the policy at Government House on Thursday, 17 September. Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn chaired the meeting.

How the proposed cap would work

Under the proposed scheme, passengers would pay the actual cost of their journey. Where that fare exceeds 45 baht, the government would refund the difference, subject to the scheme's conditions.

Passengers would be able to pay using EMV Contactless methods, including credit cards, debit cards and Mangmoom cards. Refunds would be credited to the relevant card account within three working days.

The government also intends to offer refunds through the Pao Tang application, although the final rules and procedures have yet to be set.

Existing fare concessions for older people, children, people with disabilities and disadvantaged people would remain in place. Eligible passengers would be able to use whichever option gives them the greater benefit.

Green and Gold Lines in the plan

Bangkok Metropolitan Administration officials will work with the Transport Ministry, the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand and Bangkok Thanakom Co. on transferring management of the Green Line, including its main route and extensions, along with the Gold Line.

The planned transfer covers assets, revenue and liabilities, with management to be consolidated under the MRTA in line with legal procedures.

The BMA will also arrange access for temporary card readers and EDC devices to be installed on the Green and Gold lines. A memorandum of understanding is expected to be prepared for Cabinet approval by December 2026.

Systems and passenger protections

The committee discussed data coordination, infrastructure, equipment, system upgrades and business arrangements needed before the planned launch.

Relevant agencies have been told to speed up development and installation work, set rules for fare calculations and refunds, and prepare measures covering passenger rights and complaints. Joint testing will take place before the system starts, with the aim of ensuring it works effectively for passengers.

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18 September 2026