Suriya vows 20-baht flat fare

Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit says he is pushing for the 20-baht flat fare policy on all electric train lines to be introduced by September next year through the common ticketing system management law.

He made the remark yesterday in response to an interview given by Move Forward Party list-MP Surachet Pravinvongvuth on Wednesday about the cabinet reshuffle.

He said the minister should be removed because Mr Suriya had not achieved anything while in the post, not even implementing the 20-baht flat fare on electric train lines. He urged people to follow up on the matter to determine if Mr Suriya can make good on the plan.

Currently, the 20-baht fare is in place only on the Red and Purple lines.

Mr Suriya stood by his commitment that all mass rapid transit services will charge commuters 20 baht per trip by Sept 25, 2025.

“I will show you [Mr Surachet] that I can make it happen,” the minister said.

The ministry is working on the draft of a common ticketing system management law that will allow passengers to travel on any mode of public transport using a single ticket, which will enable people to use the electric train system with a 20-baht fare, he said.

The ministry will also establish a fund to compensate business operators for costs. The plan will be put to the cabinet for approval soon.

“I’m delighted to hear criticism. But I cannot accept Mr Surachet’s insult. If the ministry can’t introduce the 20-baht flat rate on every electric train system, the maximum which one passenger will need to pay [through various connections] is up to 192 baht, which is too big a burden for people,” said Mr Suriya.

The flat rate will also encourage people to use trains and help reduce air pollution, he said.