Bangkok: The House of Representatives has approved the principle of the ‘Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand Act’ draft and established a 25-member special committee to further review the legislation. The decision was made amidst debates regarding the feasibility and implications of the proposed 20-baht flat-rate electric train policy.
According to Thai News Agency, the meeting was chaired by Mr. Pichet Chueamuangphan, First Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. The draft law, proposed by the Cabinet, aims to enable the MRTA to operate electric trains more efficiently by managing joint ticket systems and developing real estate to generate income. This income could reduce the financial burden on the government budget. Additionally, the draft law would allow MRTA to issue government bonds or other financial instruments, with the Minister of Transport approving fare rates and service fees.
Mr. Surachet Prawinwongwut, a party-list MP for the Prachachon Party, expressed concerns that the law addresses immediate government problems rather than improving MRTA’s operations. He highlighted inconsistencies between the submitted draft and the earlier version and criticized the proposed 20-baht policy as unsustainable. He argued that the policy would drain MRTA’s resources, leaving future debts for the public to bear.
On the other hand, Mr. Chanin Rungthanakiat from the Pheu Thai Party supported the draft bill, emphasizing the need for a legislative mechanism to standardize fare setting across the electric train system. He outlined the government’s efforts to develop mass transportation and implement a common ticket system, which would involve private sector participation. Mr. Chanin emphasized that the 20-baht fare policy would encourage greater use of public transportation, although compensation for lost private sector income would be necessary.
Mr. Chuti Krairiksh of the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party was skeptical about the policy’s financial viability. He questioned the use of MRTA funds and the potential issuance of bonds, highlighting concerns over fiscal discipline and the nation’s debt. He urged the government to explore innovative fare management strategies that do not rely on borrowing or subsidies.
The meeting ultimately resulted in a vote accepting the draft law, with 295 votes in favor, 144 against, 1 abstention, and 2 non-votes. A 25-member committee, including representatives from various political parties, has been appointed to further examine the draft. Notably, the Kla Tham Party proposed Ms. Kritsada Chivathamanon, a Chonburi MP, to join the committee, reflecting ongoing political negotiations surrounding the legislation.