Bangkok: Bus fares will be reduced starting April 14th as the Department of Land Transport responds to a recent drop in fuel prices.
According to Thai News Agency, the fare reduction for interprovincial buses, specifically Categories 2 and 3, will be effective from April 14, 2026. The move comes as part of the department's efforts to ensure there are adequate buses available for the Songkran holiday.
The Central Land Transport Control Committee has established a subcommittee to review transportation rates to provide flexibility and speed in response to the fluctuating fuel prices. Due to a decrease in diesel prices, the subcommittee decided to lower bus fares for specified categories, with the Bus Terminal Company maintaining its fare structure to ease the financial burden on citizens during the Songkran festival, which lasts until April 19, 2026.
Director-General of the Department of Land Transport, Mr. Sorapong Paitoonpong, explained that the Ministry of Transport tasked the department with monitoring diesel fuel price fluctuations caused by the Middle East conflict. This monitoring directly affects the cost structure and liquidity of bus operators. Meetings with bus operator representatives nationwide were convened to address these issues.
With diesel now priced at 44.40 baht per liter, the Sub-committee on Transportation Rate Consideration resolved on April 11, 2026, to reduce fares by 3 satang per kilometer per seat for Category 2 (Bangkok to provinces) and Category 3 (inter-provincial) buses. For a 100-kilometer journey, this reduction equates to a 3 baht decrease per seat. Other fare exemptions or reductions will adhere to previously approved criteria.
Mr. Paitoonpong highlighted that the fare reduction resulted from a calculation formula based on actual costs, factoring in current economic indicators such as the Consumer Price Index, the Energy Index, and labor wages. Though designed to be adaptable, the Department of Land Transport will maintain the current fare freeze in collaboration with the Transport Company Limited (BKS) until April 19, 2026. This measure aims to ease public financial burdens following a previous fare increase, encourage public transportation usage, enhance travel safety, and reduce congestion during the Songkran holiday. The Department assures sufficient bus availability and pledges to implement measures for safe and cost-effective travel during the festival.