Bangkok to Offer All-Day Train Pass for 40 Baht from December

Amidst the long-standing pressure on fares and rising costs, there is some relief for Bangkok’s urbanites. Starting December 1, unlimited travel on the Red and Purple electric train lines will be available for just 40 baht ($1.61 SGD) for the entire day, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phipat Ratchakitprakarn has announced.

Accordingly, this new ‘Daily Pass Scheme’ will be in place from 1 December 2025 to 30 November 2026. Basically, the government has taken this step to reduce the cost of living.

Because the minister said that the scheme will significantly reduce the daily transportation costs of passengers. In addition, it will encourage people to use public transport instead of private cars, which is expected to play a significant role in reducing traffic congestion and air pollution.

Different benefits for different categories of passengers

The new package,includes a fare of 40 baht for general passengers, 30 baht for students, a 50% discount for seniors, and free travel for children and the disabled.

In addition, state welfare card holders will be able to use their monthly travel allowance of 750 baht.

However, under the scheme, both the Red Line and Purple Line will have a unified EMV contactless payment system, which will allow passengers to travel on both lines seamlessly.

Thailand on the path to a unified rail system

Besides, Phipat said the government wants to bring all electric train lines in Bangkok under a “Single Ownership” model in the future.

The initiative will be led by the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA), which will operate a unified fare policy and a national common ticket system.

He added that the plan is in line with the ‘Common Ticket Act,’ which will give the country’s rail fare structure a legal basis and ensure connected, affordable, and convenient travel throughout Thailand.

Aiming to build an eco-friendly city

According to Minister Phipat, “This is not just a move to reduce today’s fares, but an effort to build a transport system that is accessible, affordable, and environmentally friendly for everyone.”

He added that just as the previous 20 baht flat fare scheme was popular, the new daily pass plan will also bring real relief to citizens’ lives.

In addition, the government is also taking steps to reduce tollway costs next year, with the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) examining the possibility of introducing a 50 baht flat toll per journey.

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