On December 16, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Suriya Juangroongruangkit, will preside over the inaugural meeting of the Land Traffic Management Committee (LTMC) under Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra’s administration. A key agenda item is the proposed transfer of management responsibilities for two major electric train projects, the Grey Line (Watcharapol-Thonglor) and Silver Line (Bangna-Suvarnabhumi), from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA).
According to Pichet Kunathammarak, Director-General of the Department of Rail Transport, this transfer aims to streamline rail management and integrate these lines with other MRTA-operated systems, aligning with the government’s policy to cap fares at 20 baht.
Integration Plans and M-MAP 2 Review
The Grey and Silver Lines are part of the second phase of the Bangkok rail transit development plan, known as M-MAP 2. This phase emphasizes essential routes, with plans to connect the Silver Line to Suvarnabhumi Airport’s southern terminal, slated for construction in 2025 by Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT).
The transfer to MRTA will require a review of existing studies to ensure the feasibility and benefits of the projects. The Silver Line’s potential relies heavily on its connection to the airport terminal; otherwise, low passenger demand could diminish its utility, particularly if it stops at Thanacity on Bangna-Trat Road as initially proposed by BMA. Coordination with AOT to include a train station in the terminal’s basement is critical to maximize passenger flow.
Expanding Connectivity in Chatuchak
The LTMC meeting will also explore the possibility of a light rail (tram) system in Chatuchak to enhance intermodal connections between key transportation hubs such as Bangkok Central Station, the Chatuchak Bus Terminal, and MRT and BTS lines. The proposal aims to address gaps in the current transit network, providing seamless travel across various systems.
This meeting underscores the government’s commitment to improving Bangkok’s transit infrastructure, focusing on efficiency, connectivity, and long-term sustainability.
