Commuters promised a better deal at a later time
AMORNRAT MAHITTHIROOK

The Transport Ministry has moved to cool train commuters' complaints about rising fares on the subway with a promise of more attractive fares in the future.

Subway fares rose by one to three baht yesterday and now range between 15 and 39 baht, up from 14-36 baht.

Many commuters were unaware of the change, giving rise to grumbles.

The subway operator, Bangkok Metro Co Ltd (BMCL), said the increased fares are allowed under its concession contract with the Mass Rapid Transit Authority.

The ministry will seek cabinet approval today for the new fares.

Train traveller Panida Chantarasriwong said the fare rise hit her purse as the cost of everything else seemed to be going up lately as well.

Apisit Suwannasing said the increase hurt because he always took long trips and therefore had to pay more than short-distance riders.

In exchange for the higher ticket price both wanted more frequent services, saying the wait between trains was too long, and a quick expansion of the subway system to cover greater Bangkok.

The existing 20km subway line runs between Hua Lamphong and Bang Sue.

Caretaker Transport Minister Pongsak Raktapongpaisal said he hoped to convince BMCL to set a flat 20 baht fare once the Blue Line is extended from Hua Lamphong to Bang Khae and from Bang Sue to Tha Phra.

The operator would benefit from an increased number of trips once the route opened, he said.

The government plans another two lines _ the two-sector Red Line from Rangsit to Phaya Thai and Taling Chan to Makkasan; and the Purple Line from Bang Sue to Bang Yai.

Mr Pongsak said the terms of reference for the contracts would be completed by July 25.

Pending the expansion, he wanted BMCL to issue monthly tickets with a better discount than the 15% passholders presently receive. The discount for students is doubled.

From Bangkok Post