Bangkok: The government is accelerating efforts to reorganize the rail system, aiming to "reduce fares, enhance safety, and expand the service network" with the goal of providing tangible convenience and improving the quality of life for citizens.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the government, through the Ministry of Transport, is accelerating the systematic and continuous development of the rail transport system following the enactment of the Rail Transport Act B.E. 2568 (2025) on March 27, 2026. The aim is to upgrade the rail system to be convenient, safe, and fair for users, in order to reduce the cost of living and improve the quality of life for citizens in all aspects.
The Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office stated that at the first meeting of the Rail Transport Policy Committee in 2026, held on April 30, 2026, the government expedited the formulation of key proactive measures covering three main dimensions: reducing the financial burden on the public, enhancing safety, and developing a more efficient rail network, in order to provide tangible benefits to the public as soon as possible.
In terms of reducing the cost of living for the public, the government has a plan to set a fare ceiling to prevent unfair fare charging. It is also preparing to waive the initial transfer fee when changing lines on the BTS Skytrain, and providing benefits for vulnerable groups such as children, people with disabilities, the elderly, and veterans. Furthermore, there are measures to protect passengers by requiring operators to compensate for delays or cancellations, in order to create fairness and truly reduce the burden on the public.
In terms of safety, the government has rigorously upgraded safety standards in all aspects. This includes clearly defining system areas and safety zones, controlling the standards of rolling stock and infrastructure to ensure their stability and strength, requiring personnel to be certified according to standards, and requiring operators to have accident insurance to cover potential damages to passengers. This aims to provide assurance and confidence in using the rail system.
In terms of network and service development, the government is accelerating investment and expanding the nationwide rail network. This includes proceeding with urban electric train projects and ongoing regional double-track railway projects to improve logistics efficiency and support national economic growth. Simultaneously, opportunities are being opened for private sector participation in providing services to increase competition, reduce costs, and improve overall service quality.