Operators of Bangkok's suburban Red and Purple metro lines are preparing to revert fares to standard rates from Oct 1, as the previous government's 20-baht fare cap policy ends.
A source from the Ministry of Transport says the change in government from the Pheu Thai Party to the Bhumjaithai (BJT) Party has ended the policy of a maximum 20-baht fare for all electric train lines.
As a result, its pilot phase on the Red Line mass transit system and the Purple Line will end on Sept 30. After that date, both lines will revert to their regular fare structures.
Under current regulations, Red Line fares range from 12 to 42 baht, with discounts for students and the elderly. A monthly pass will also be reintroduced, offering 50 trips for 1,250 baht, or about 25 baht per trip.
Similarly, the Purple Line's fares range from 14 to 42 baht, with a 50% discount for children and the elderly, and 10% for students.
Pheu Thai called on the new government to carry on with the 20-baht scheme, saying the policy, which has been in place for nearly two years, directly benefits more than 100,000 commuters in Bangkok and surrounding areas.
