Bangkok: The government of Thailand has officially launched its “20 baht electric train all lines” initiative, with the fare policy coming into effect on October 1st. This new measure aims to provide a flat rate for all electric train lines in Bangkok and its surrounding areas, aiming to reduce the cost of living and encourage public transportation usage.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, spokesman for the Prime Minister’s Office, announced that the Cabinet approved the new fare measure, which aligns with the government’s broader policy to alleviate the cost of living for the population. The policy, proposed by the Ministry of Transport, is expected to result in increased train usage and decreased road traffic and air pollution.
The 20-baht fare is part of an urgent government policy, promising quick implementation. However, due to varying concession contracts among current train service providers, passengers must register through the ‘Tang Rat’ application, proving Thai nationality with a 13-digit ID number. Eligible payment methods include credit, debit, and registered fare cards, with the policy covering both above-ground and underground networks, including the Green, Gold, Yellow, Pink, Blue, Purple, Red lines, and the Airport Rail Link.
Different lines accept different payment methods: Rabbit Cards for the Green, Gold, Yellow, and Pink lines, and EMV Contactless cards (Visa/Mastercard) for the Red, Blue, Purple, Pink, Yellow lines, and the ARL, excluding the Gold and Green lines. Future plans include implementing a QR Code system to further ease public access.
Mr. Jirayu highlighted the coverage of 13 routes, spanning 279.84 kilometers and 194 stations. The fare compensation will be sourced from a joint ticket promotion fund or other suitable financial resources. Over one year, the policy is projected to save more than 10 billion baht, benefiting the economy by reducing car usage costs, enhancing social well-being by lowering accident losses, and improving the environment by cutting carbon emissions.
Public registration for the 20-baht fare will be available in August 2025 via the “Tang Rat” app, with the policy starting by October 1, 2025. Continuous improvements are planned to enhance efficiency.
Mr. Jirayu emphasized that this fare measure will promote public transportation use, reduce living costs, and ensure safe, timely, and environmentally friendly travel. It aims to decrease road traffic, cut energy consumption, reduce pollution, and improve air quality along train routes.