BANGKOK – The Thai government will implement a flat 20-baht fare across eight major train lines in Bangkok beginning 1 October, significantly reducing commuting costs for millions of passengers. The policy, aimed at easing financial burdens and encouraging public transport use, will require eligible Thai citizens to register through the government’s “Tang Rath” app before benefiting from the subsidized rate.

Bangkok Red Line train fare to be reduced to Bt20 by New Year

Under the new scheme, passengers will pay just 20 baht per trip, even when transferring between different train systems. The initiative will cover the Green, Gold, Yellow, Pink, Blue, Purple, and Red lines, as well as the Airport Rail Link. While the Purple and Red lines already offer the reduced fare, the remaining lines will join the program in October.

To qualify, Thai nationals must register their national ID card and link a valid travel card via the Tang Rath app. However, full integration between transit systems has not yet been achieved, meaning passengers may still need separate cards for certain lines during the initial phase.

Payment options will include EMV contactless cards (Visa and Mastercard) on six lines, while the Rabbit Card will remain valid for the Green, Gold, Yellow, and Pink lines. Non-registered riders and foreign commuters will continue paying standard fares.

The government estimates an annual subsidy cost of 8 billion baht, funded through the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA). Further improvements are expected in 2026, including a more seamless QR code payment system to streamline travel across all lines.

฿20 Bangkok train fare can be implemented within 2 years

This initiative marks a major step in Bangkok’s push toward affordable and efficient urban mobility, with officials hoping it will significantly boost public transport ridership while easing congestion on the city’s roads.

-Thailand News (TN)