New River Ferry Service Launched

[george]

New river ferry service launched

BANGKOK: -- The Water Transport and Maritime Commerce Department has launched a new shuttle ferry service across the Chao Phraya river, between Sathorn and Dao Kanong on the Thon Buri side.

A flat 10-baht fare is charged for the ride, which was expected to become popular, said Thawalrat Onsira, the department chief.

The service, which connects with the skytrain at Taksin station, was launched on Aug 1. About 1,000 people were already using it each day, he said.

The department was looking after its operations while the Thai Shipowners' Association was paying for the fuel and crew. After six months, the association would decide whether to accept the concession and take over the service from the department.

The department was also negotiating with the association to run the Memorial Bridge-Petch Kasem soi 20 route, which has reported low passenger numbers.

Other routes earmarked for extension included the boat services from Sathorn to Klong Toey, Ramkhamhaeng to Ying Charoen Market and the lucrative route from Sathorn to Samut Prakan via Lad Pho. Two companies, Rua Duan Chao Phraya and Viboon Sri Karn Dern Rue, are vying for a concession to operate the Sathorn-Samut Prakan boat service.

An investment of 98 million baht would be needed to upgrade the piers.

To make the extended route to Sathorn more attractive, no fare hikes would be imposed. The extension would enable customers to connect with the skytrain.

Mr Thawalrat said the Transport Ministry would keep the fares low and deploy boats that meet the safety requirements.

Deputy Transport Minister Phumtham Vetchayachai stressed the importance of improving the fleet of commuter boats and developing piers for tourists.

--Bangkok Post 2005-08-15