Minister confirms train, bus fare cuts coming

Minister confirms train, bus fare cuts coming

A commuter buys a ticket on the Purple Line electric railway in Bangkok. (File photo by Wichan Charoenkiatpakul)
A commuter buys a ticket on the Purple Line electric railway in Bangkok. (File photo by Wichan Charoenkiatpakul)

Transport Minister Saksayam Chidchob promises to cut train and bus fares this year, with government subsidies allowing electric train fares at a possible flat 15-baht rate.

A main policy of the Transport Ministry was to cut the cost of living by reducing fares - especially electric trains, buses and conventional trains, Mr Saksayam said on Monday.

"Coalition parties have proposed a flat 15-baht fare for electric trains. It is a possibility that will be studied. Actual fare reduction will not differ from the proposed rate and will certainly happen this year," he said.

Officials would look for suitable solutions that would not create burdens for future governments, the transport minister said.

"Fare reduction surely requires a government subsidy. The top priority is to cut people's cost of living... There will be good news after I lay down policies on July 30," Mr Saksayam said.

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