Bangkok’s 20-Baht Fare: Public Transit Thrives, Expansion Planned
Bangkok—A year after implementing a 20-baht fare cap on its Red and Purple lines, Thailand’s Ministry of Transport is celebrating a significant increase in both ridership and revenue. This initiative, designed to encourage public transport use and alleviate the cost of living, is proving highly effective.
According to Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, combined revenue for both lines reached 49.91 million baht by the end of 2024, a robust 12.28% increase compared to the 44.45 million baht earned during the same period in 2023. This financial upswing reflects significantly increased ridership across the network.
The Red Line, operated by the State Railway of Thailand, saw particularly impressive growth. Before the fare cap, its revenue stood at 15.97 million baht. After the October 2023 implementation, revenue jumped to 20.04 million baht in 2024—a substantial 25.48% increase. This financial gain was accompanied by a 24.88% increase in passenger numbers, reaching 1,027,458 last year. The Red Line serves commuters on two routes: the northern line from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Rangsit, and the southern line connecting the central station to Taling Chan in Thon Buri district.
The Purple Line, managed by the Mass Rapid Transit Authority and connecting Khlong Bang Phai station in Bang Phlat district with Tao Poon station in Bang Sue, also experienced positive growth. While less dramatic than the Red Line’s surge, the Purple Line’s income rose from 28.48 million baht in 2023 to 29.87 million baht in 2024, a respectable 4.8% increase. Passenger numbers on this line also climbed by 4.89%, reaching 2,026,981 passengers.
Collectively, the two lines transported 3,054,439 passengers in 2024, a 10.86% increase compared to the previous year. Minister Suriya described this burgeoning ridership as a «good sign,» highlighting the effectiveness of the ministry’s efforts to ease financial burdens for Bangkok residents. He characterized it as a virtuous cycle, explaining that increased ridership translates to higher profitability, ultimately reducing the government’s financial burden in compensating operators for operational losses.
The success of this initiative has prompted the ministry to consider expanding the 20-baht fare cap to other electric train lines in Bangkok. Minister Suriya expressed confidence that this expansion will be implemented by September 2025, potentially triggering similar positive impacts across the city’s broader public transport network. This forward-looking approach underscores the government’s commitment to accessible and affordable public transportation, further incentivizing a shift from private vehicles to a more sustainable urban commute. The long-term implications of this policy could be significant, potentially contributing to reduced traffic congestion and improved air quality in the bustling metropolis.
