Commuters using the Bangkok Mass Transit (BTS) train service on the Sukhumvit and Silom routes will be charged an additional 1-3 baht beginning on January 1st, according to the company.
The fare rise, from the current 16-41 baht to 17-47 baht, depending on the distance travelled, will be applied betweenMor Chit and On Nut and between the National Stadium and Taksin Bridge.
The fares from On Nut to Keha in Samut Prakan, from Mor Chit to Khu Khot in Pathum Thani and from Taksin Bridge to Bang Wa remain unchanged.
BTS CEO Surapong Laoha-Unya said, however, that the new fares are still below the ceiling of between 21.52 and 64.53 baht defined in the concession contract, but the company has agreed to delay imposing the highest rates because it is fully aware of the effect it would have on commuters.
He claimed that BTS had adjusted its fares three times since it began operations in 1999, with the latest adjustment taking effect on October 1st, 2017, from 15-42 baht to 16-44 baht,although the company is authorised, under the concession contract, to adjust fares every 18 months.
He said that the latest adjustment is necessary to offset the increases in fuel, electricity, labour and maintenance costs, as well as overall inflation.
He said that the company will, however, offer promotional prices for travel next year by offering bonus points to frequent travellers to exchange for free rides.
Senior citizens are still entitled to a 50% fare discount and a one-day pass is also available at 150 baht, he said.
