BANGKOK, Thailand – On the first day of the new fare structure for the BTS Green Line extension, fares increased from a flat rate of 15 Baht to a distance-based range of 17–45 Baht. Many passengers were reportedly unaware of the change. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) explained that the adjustment is necessary to address an annual operating deficit of approximately 6 billion Baht.
A Thai News Agency reporter surveyed passengers on November 1, the first day of the fare adjustment for the BTS Green Line extension. The fare structure changed from a flat 15 Baht per trip to a distance-based system ranging from 17 to 45 Baht, according to the BMA’s announcement. Most passengers had not known about the increase, although BTS staff were on hand to inform travelers and frequent announcements were made. Signs showing the new fare rates were also displayed throughout the stations.
One family of four — parents and two children — said they had not been aware of the increase. They normally use the BTS only on weekends. For short trips today, their fare rose from 15 Baht to 17 Baht, which they said was manageable. They noted that they could still use their state welfare cards, and the youngest child did not have to pay.
Regular commuters were more aware of the fare increase. One passenger who travels daily from Samrong to Asok to take their child to school noted that the fare nearly doubled from 15 Baht to 29 Baht on the first day, significantly affecting their daily budget despite having a monthly pass. On weekends, the passenger also uses the BTS to send their child to extra classes. They suggested that relevant agencies consider measures to help alleviate the financial burden for frequent commuters.
The fare adjustment applies to three extended routes:
Mo Chit Station (N8) to Khu Khot Station (N24)
On Nut Station (E9) to Keha Station (E23)
Wongwian Yai Station (S8) to Bang Wa Station (S12)
New fare rates:
Single-journey ticket: 17–45 Baht
Rabbit Card for general users: 17–45 Baht
Rabbit Card for students: 12–32 Baht (30% discount)
Rabbit Card for senior citizens: 9–23 Baht (50% discount)
Connecting to main lines: combined fare, not exceeding 65 Baht
BMA Governor Chatchat Sitthipunt stated that the Green Line extension has been operating at a flat fare of 15 Baht, which caused the city to pay approximately 8 billion Baht annually for operating costs while only collecting about 2 billion Baht in revenue, resulting in a 6-billion-Baht annual deficit.
Although the fare adjustment does not relate to outstanding payments to private contractors, the city had to cover the shortfall from other budget sources, which is unfair to taxpayers who do not use the BTS. Therefore, the BMA deemed it necessary to restructure fares to reflect actual costs. Some short urban trips may see lower fares, while long-distance travelers may face higher costs based on distance. (TNA)
