The bus company association’s president, Pattharavadee Klomcharoon, has warned that if the fare-hike is not endorsed operators will cancel services with effect from 10 February. The withdrawal of services could result in 2,500 buses being taken off the streets of Bangkok.
Ms Klomcharoon says the THB3 hike is necessary to offset the rising cost of NGV gas. Prajin Juntong, the Thai transport minister, says the ministry has not agreed any bus fare increases with the Bangkok Mass Transport Authority but is considering whether to endorse one of THB1.
The minister says staff need a few more days to assess the justification of the rise and how it would affect commuters in the city. He finished off by saying that the ministry would announce its decision before 10 February.
Thailand stalls on Bangkok bus fare hikes
News in Asia
The Thai Transport Ministry has stated it needs more time to evaluate a demand by Bangkok’s private bus operators to increase fares. The companies have asked for fares across the board to be increased by THB3 per journey.