Government Plans Transport Fare Cuts and Subsidy Scheme

Photo courtesy of Rembrandt

The government has announced a two-phase transport plan aimed at reducing public transport costs to alleviate living expenses. This initiative, revealed by Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, includes a four-month project to lower electric rail fares, bus service charges, and expressway fees. Specific fare and subsidy details are expected to be finalized within a week.

This announcement comes after a delay in the implementation of the previous administration's 20-baht fare scheme, which Minister Ratchakitprakarn attributed to ongoing discussions and policy reviews by the new government. The Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, along with the Cabinet, will provide further details to Parliament following their official oath-taking. Anutin, who leads the Bhumjaithai Party, suggested the 20-baht flat fare proposal might be dropped due to significant subsidy costs.

Despite this, Minister Ratchakitprakarn highlighted the Bhumjaithai Party's commitment to a 40-baht daily flat fare across Bangkok's rail network, which is still under consideration. The current 20-baht flat fare for the Red and Purple lines, set to expire on September 30, might be extended, though no decision has been made yet. The proposed bill for the integrated ticket price is facing scrutiny to ensure fair pricing.

Meanwhile, the government is preparing to deliver its policy statement on September 29 and 30. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, a deputy leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, stressed the importance of timing to secure between 50 and 60 billion baht from the 2025 budget for stimulus initiatives. Missing this deadline would result in the funds reverting to the treasury, but tapping into them could significantly support various schemes.

Minister Paradorn Prissanananthakul also mentioned the potential quick mobilization of 25 billion baht for the half-half co-payment stimulus plan. He noted that if timing constraints arise, the government will have to rely on the 2026 budget instead, while efforts will be made to leverage the 2025 budget if possible.

Key Takeaways

• The government is set to reduce transport costs in two phases.
• A decision on extending current fare schemes will be made soon.
• Timing of policy statements is crucial for accessing budget funds.

Related Stories:

Bangkok Metro Ends 20-Baht Fare Cap on Red, Purple Lines

Discounted BTS Packages Return to Ease Commuter Woes

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-09-24