BANGKOK, Thailand – The Thai government has approved the extension of the 20-baht flat fare scheme on Bangkok’s Red and Purple train lines for two more months, as part of its effort to ease living costs for Thai people.
The approval followed a policy statement delivered to Parliament on September 29, 2025, in which the government outlined urgent measures to address national challenges and restore public confidence. The government stressed that economic relief is its central focus and pledged to increase household income and reduce daily expenses, including energy bills, drinking water, public transport fares, and tolls, in order to strengthen consumer purchasing power.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn confirmed that the Cabinet agreed to prolong the fare cap until November 30, 2025, covering the Red Line (Krung Thep Aphiwat–Taling Chan and Krung Thep Aphiwat–Rangsit) and the Purple Line (Tao Poon–Khlong Bang Phai). The fare reduction is aimed at lowering household expenses while the government finalizes key legislation to create a permanent framework for more affordable mass transit.
The Transport Minister stated that Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed the ministry to develop a sustainable solution that eases commuter burdens without creating excessive financial pressure on the state. A new proposal will be submitted to the Cabinet within two months. (NNT)
