Bangkok: Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, has revealed that the integration of Bangkok's electric train system into a single-card operation is still facing challenges and cannot yet be presented to the Cabinet. He suggested consolidating the electric train operations under the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) while ensuring no impact on public debt. Additionally, he has proposed measures to enhance tourism within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) prior to the government transition.
According to Thai News Agency, Pipat mentioned in an interview that the proposal for merging the four Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS) lines is pending the approval of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport. Submission to the Cabinet is delayed due to minor issues in the proposal from the Department of Rail Transport. Pipat expressed optimism that these issues will be resolved in the upcoming meeting. He emphasized that this project aims to reduce expenses for residents of Bangkok and its vicinity by unifying all BTS lines into a single card system. However, the pricing structure is still under study to determine a feasible rate. Furthermore, the plan involves reverting the system to state ownership under MRTA, with discussions involving the Ministry of Finance and a committee established by the Prime Minister to explore acquisition strategies that do not increase public debt.
Addressing the 40-baht flat-rate fare for the BTS Skytrain, Pipat noted a positive yet minor improvement in user numbers following the fare reduction from 42 baht to 20 baht. The increase in users on the Red and Purple lines remains below 1%, which he considers insignificant.
On the front of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) project, which spans the provinces of Chonburi, Chachoengsao, and Rayong, Pipat has tasked the EEC Secretary-General, the private sector, and the Sports Authority of Thailand with enhancing the attractiveness of the three railway stations and U-Tapao Airport. He identified the lack of a large stadium capable of hosting world-class events and a major amusement park as gaps in Thailand's offerings. He suggested the development of an 80,000-seat stadium and a Disneyland-style amusement park to boost tourism and entertainment options beyond traditional indoor venues.
Pipat proposed that these developments should cover no more than 3,000 rai (approximately 460 hectares) and emphasized the necessity for the EEC to secure additional land to support these activities, improving connectivity to the three airports, including U-Tapao. He anticipates collaborating with two companies that have already been granted concessions to ensure satisfaction with the proposed developments. Discussions with these operators are planned to gauge their agreement, with the goal of implementation before the current government's term concludes.