Bangkok: The Ministry of Transport has mandated the completion of electric vehicle (EV) depots for the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) by April 2026. The directive requires BMTA to collaborate with related agencies to secure land for these depots.

According to Thai News Agency, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Mr. Panya Chupanich, chaired a meeting to discuss guidelines for acquiring land to serve as bus depots for EVs. BMTA has already prepared five depots under its ownership, which can accommodate 574 EVs. The meeting also involved discussions on acquiring additional land from government entities such as Keha Station and Khlong Bang Phai Stations (Mass Transit Authority of Thailand), Pu Chao Saming Phrai (Department of Rural Roads), Khlong Toei (Port Authority of Thailand), Southern Bus Terminal Pinklao (Transport Public Company Limited), Sai Noi (private sector), and Chiang Rak (Expressway Authority of Thailand). The relevant agencies were urged to expedite the process to accommodate the EVs currently being procured.

The BMTA has been tasked with preparing the necessary information and submitting it to the relevant agencies by January 9, 2026, to ensure the land acquisition for the bus depot is completed by April 2026. This aligns with the future plans for procuring electric buses. Finalizing the depot location is a prerequisite for advancing the project.