Bangkok: The Transport Co., Ltd. (BKS) is set to increase fares for all van and minibus routes by 5 satang per kilometer, starting April 6. This decision comes as part of a broader strategy to align fares with current operating costs amid rising fuel prices.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Atthawit Rakchamroon, Managing Director of Transport Co., Ltd. (BKS), stated that the fare adjustments were approved by the Central Land Transport Control Committee. The first phase will affect approximately 3,000 public passenger vans and minibuses across various routes. The fare increase aims to reflect the ongoing operational cost challenges faced by operators.

Passengers planning to travel during the Songkran festival will not experience fare changes until after the holiday. The Bus Terminal Company (BKS) has confirmed that fares for large public buses, including both BKS and partner operators, will remain stable until April 20. Post-Songkran, fares for around 6,000 large public buses will increase by 5 satang per kilometer.

Mr. Atthawit highlighted that the Bus Terminal Company (BKT) will closely monitor the fuel price situation. Should diesel prices hit 45-50 baht per liter, an additional fare increase of 5-6 satang per kilometer might be necessary. This measure will help operators manage rising fuel and maintenance costs. BKT has scheduled a meeting with over 6,000 bus operators to discuss these challenges.

In anticipation of the fare hike, BKS is implementing initial relief measures by reducing bus departure fees from April 6-19. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on passengers before the official fare increase, in line with the Department of Land Transport's (DLT) policy.

Mr. Thitipat Thaijongrak, spokesperson for the Department of Land Transport, announced that the Central Committee for Land Transport Control has approved fare increases for intercity buses and passenger vans, effective April 6. Intercity buses will see a 5 baht increase per 100 kilometers, while passenger vans will increase by 2 baht per 100 kilometers. To ease the impact on travelers during the Songkran festival, the current fare rates will remain in place through April 19.

The Department of Land Transport and the Bus Terminal Company (BKS) have collaborated to ensure fares remain unchanged during the festival period, with new rates set to commence after April 19.