Trump Works at McDonald’s claims Kamala Harris 'never has

[webfact]

Picture courtesy: Wikipedia

 

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has thrown his support behind the Transport Ministry's proposal to introduce a congestion charge for vehicles entering the city's most densely populated areas.

 

This charge is intended to ease traffic and encourage a shift towards public transportation by helping fund a new policy offering a flat 20-baht fare on all electric train lines. The system is inspired by similar successful models in cities such as London and Singapore, where congestion charges have proven effective in reducing traffic while promoting sustainable transport alternatives.

 

Mr. Chadchart stressed that for the plan to be truly effective, Bangkok’s public transport system must first undergo significant improvements. He pointed out that while the electric train network is vital, it must be part of a broader strategy.

 

This includes expanding bus routes, enhancing pedestrian pathways, and improving overall accessibility to ensure the city's residents have viable, affordable, and safe travel options. His goal is to make public transport not just an alternative but the preferred option for daily commuters.

 

The congestion charge, as outlined, would apply to vehicles entering Bangkok's central business district (CBD). Unlike other models that focus on specific streets or zones, this proposal aims for a more extensive coverage area to prevent drivers from avoiding the charge by taking alternative routes.

Mr. Chadchart underscored the importance of a well-thought-out approach, one that carefully considers its impact on different social groups. He expressed concerns about low-income residents and families who rely on private vehicles, particularly parents who drive their children to school regularly. Measures would need to be put in place to avoid disproportionately affecting these groups.

 

The governor reiterated that the charge should not be implemented until the city has an adequate public transport infrastructure. He also believes that technology will play a key role in managing traffic congestion and ensuring the policy is effective. Advanced traffic management systems, such as real-time monitoring and dynamic pricing, could be used to maximise the benefits of the congestion charge while minimising its inconvenience.

 

The revenues generated from the congestion charge are expected to help cover the costs of the 20-baht flat fare policy, an initiative that seeks to make public transport more affordable for everyone. This fare structure, once implemented, is expected to greatly increase the use of electric trains, which could further alleviate the city’s notorious traffic problems.

 

Picture courtesy: Wikipedia

 

However, not everyone is convinced the plan will work without challenges. Former Deputy Bangkok Governor Samart Ratchapolsitte noted that the concept of a congestion charge has been floated for many years but has never been enacted. He attributed this to concerns about its potential negative effects on commuters, especially those without access to reliable public transportation options.

 

Mr. Samart emphasised that meticulous planning will be essential to overcome these barriers. He pointed to issues such as parking availability, fee exemptions for certain groups, and ensuring that the public transport network can handle an influx of new users.

 

Meanwhile, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit added further details on the broader vision for public transport in Bangkok. He suggested that the congestion charge could be part of a larger overhaul that includes renegotiating or even buying back concessions from private companies operating the electric train lines.

 

By taking back control of these concessions, the government could potentially lower fares and ensure more affordable and equitable access to public transport for Bangkok’s residents. 

 

Mr. Suriya also emphasised the importance of learning from other countries that have implemented similar systems. The congestion charge in London, for example, has successfully reduced car usage in the city centre while raising significant revenue for public transportation projects.

 

Similarly, Singapore's Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) system has been an effective tool in managing traffic in its busiest areas. Bangkok's plan would draw from these international examples, tailoring the system to suit the city's unique challenges and needs.

 

As Bangkok continues to grow, both in terms of population and vehicle numbers, the urgency to address traffic congestion becomes more pressing. This initiative represents a significant step towards making Bangkok a more liveable, sustainable city, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2024-10-21

 

 

[BritScot]

Must have seen the money grab the Mayor of London is doing and how much money he is pulling in. Also how its spread to other cities in the UK.  Maybe Thailand will get its own "Blade Runners "?