Siripong stated that Rabbit cards could join the fare-refund scheme if certified internationally. Children aged 7-15 need adult verification for managing Mangmoom cards. The Cabinet will review rail fare proposals, while a budget is set for potential reimbursement needs.
Key Points
- Siripong stated that Rabbit cards could join the planned fare-refund scheme if they gain international certification. Children aged 7-15 can obtain Mangmoom rail cards but need parental verification for Paotang accounts linked to refunds. The ministry discussed accommodating both child and adult cards in the registration system.
- The Thai Cabinet will review three rail fare proposals on October 26, including a transfer of electric rail management, extending the 40-baht daily fare until December 2027, and requesting a 5.8 billion baht central-budget ceiling for a fare reimbursement trial in 2027. Siripong expressed confidence in completing the common-ticketing framework by the trial’s end.
- An increase in EMV contactless journeys and fare revenue was reported for the Red and Purple lines following a fare measure introduction. The Red Line saw a 89% rise in journeys, generating significant revenue increases, while the Purple Line reported a 135% increase in passenger journeys, indicating positive effects from the fare measure and supporting its possible extension.
Future Integration and Refunds for Rabbit Cards
According to Siripong, Rabbit cards may soon integrate into the fare-refund system, should they receive the necessary international certification. This potential development opens the possibility for users to seamlessly participate in the planned refund scheme, enhancing overall customer experience. In related matters, children aged 7–15 can possess Mangmoom rail cards, but they are unable to open Paotang accounts independently. Discussions between the ministry and Krungthai Bank propose a system where parents or guardians can verify their identity to link their children’s cards, allowing for effective management of refunds through the adult’s Paotang account, ensuring streamlined access for families.
Cabinet Proposals and Rail Management Funding
Siripong announced that the Thai Cabinet is set to consider three proposals concerning rail fare management. The first pertains to the transfer of electric rail management, ensuring proper protocols are established through a forthcoming memorandum of understanding. The second item seeks to extend the 40-baht daily fare measure on the Red and Purple lines to December 31, 2027, while the third outlines a request for a 5.8 billion baht budget ceiling to support a one-year fare reimbursement trial. Siripong noted that although the integration of common-ticketing legislation has been delayed, he remains optimistic that such initiatives will enhance overall operational efficiency and facilitate wider access to affordable transportation services.
Growing EMV Usage and Revenue Data
Recent data from Pichet Kunadhamraks highlighted a significant rise in EMV contactless fare payments and revenue for the Red and Purple lines, attributing this enhancement to the newly implemented fare measures. By the end of August 2026, the Red Line saw a staggering 89% rise in daily passenger journeys, translating to a 212% increase in revenue. Similarly, the Purple Line experienced a 135% increase in daily journeys and an impressive 275% hike in fare revenue. Overall, both lines averaged over 37,000 contactless journeys daily, an increase of 121.54%. This success suggests that the fare measures are effective and could justify further extension and investment in integrated payment solutions to promote passenger convenience and operational growth in the coming years.
Source : Thai ministry to request Cabinet approval next week for 2027 rail fares of 17–45 baht
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