State bus operator freezes fares, deploys 7,700 buses for Songkran
State-run Transport Co Ltd has pledged to keep fares unchanged through April 19 and deploy more than 7,700 buses to handle the annual Songkran travel rush, assuring passengers there will be no one left stranded.
Attawit Rakjamroon, president of Transport Co Ltd, also known as Bor Kor Sor, said the company is fully prepared to accommodate the annual surge in travellers returning to their home provinces for the Thai New Year, in line transport ministry policy.
Mr Attawit said Bor Kor Sor had coordinated with private operators to ensure sufficient vehicles and prevent ticket shortages. In total, the fleet will comprise more than 500 new, company-owned and leased buses; about 6,000 joint-service buses; and 1,200 supplementary non-scheduled buses.
During the outbound peak from April 9 to 12, daily passenger numbers are expected to range between 160,000 and 180,000, requiring 7,000–8,000 trips a day. For the return journey between April 16 and 19, around 120,000 passengers a day are anticipated, requiring roughly 6,000 trips daily.
Besides capacity, Bor Kor Sor said it was tightening safety and passenger protection measures. All buses and drivers are to be fully inspected and ready before departure. Operators have been strictly warned against unfair practices, including selling fake tickets, overcharging, exceeding seat capacity or abandoning passengers en route.
Any violations will be dealt with immediately in accordance with transport regulations, Mr Attawit said, adding that the aim was to uphold fair service standards during the peak travel period.
On fares, the company confirmed prices would remain unchanged until April 19, despite rising fuel costs. Mr Attawit said Bor Kor Sor and the Department of Land Transport had agreed on a temporary subsidy to ease the burden on joint-service operators while protecting passengers from higher costs.
Under the arrangement, operators who agree to maintain current fares between April 6 and 19 will receive compensation funded by the Road Safety Fund. From April 20 onwards, fares will be adjusted in line with a resolution by the Central Land Transport Committee to better reflect actual fuel costs.
“During Songkran, the public can be confident that we have prepared enough buses. Those who book in advance will definitely have a seat,” Mr Attawit said.
“For those without reservations, please plan your journey and allow extra time. Tickets can still be purchased at counters on the day of travel, and we will ensure everyone reaches their destination safely.”
Source – Bangkok News
