Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Inaugurates Skytrain Extension Sunday

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Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn inaugurates Skytrain extension Sunday

BANGKOK: -- Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on Sunday will inaugurate the Thai capital’s first cross-river electric mass transit train service, officially opening the Skytrain extension route linking Taksin Station in Bangkok with Wong Wian Yai Station across the Chao Phraya River in Thon Buri, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) Governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra said Saturday.

He said the official opening ceremony will be held at 5.30pm at Wong Wian Yai station.

Skytrain services will continue during the opening ceremony but may be delayed 15 minutes as several important guests, including Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, will be on hand to welcome the princess, according to Gov. Sukhumbhand.

Financed by BMA, the 2.2-kilometre Skytrain extension has operated on trial basis with free service since May 15.

However, a Bt15 fare will be collected from September 1 for commuters traveling between the two stations while Skytrain operator will continue collecting the same fares of Bt15-40 for travel on the overall routes.

-- TNA 2009-08-22