Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Mr. Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced updates on the "20-Baht Flat Fare for All Electric Train Lines" initiative on November 26. The plan is divided into two key projects.
The first involves extending the current flat-fare policy for the Red Line commuter trains and the Purple Line metro. This policy, which has been in effect for a year, is due to expire soon. The Transport Ministry will propose a one-year extension to the Cabinet on November 29, with the extended policy to take effect immediately, lasting until November 30, 2025.
The second project involves the inclusion of the BTS and MRT networks in the flat-fare initiative. This requires approval of the Joint Ticket Management Act, a key legislative measure that integrates all train lines into a unified fare system. The proposed law includes establishing a funding mechanism, which is under preliminary review by the Ministry of Finance. It is expected to reach Cabinet approval on December 3, 2024, before proceeding to Parliament.
If the legislative process progresses as planned, the 20-Baht flat fare across all electric train lines is set to be fully implemented by September 2025.
Mr. Suriya expressed confidence in meeting the proposed timeline, ensuring affordable public transportation for commuters nationwide.