Revised cabinet compositions won't influence the proposed 20-baht flat fare on electric trains, as stated by Suriya.
Affordable Train Travel in Bangkok: 20-Baht Flat Fare for Electric Trains to Begin in October
Starting on October 1, 2025, commuters in Bangkok and its metropolitan area will have the opportunity to travel on electric trains for just 20 baht per trip[1][3]. This initiative, driven by Thailand's Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit and Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, aims to make train travel more accessible and boost commuter numbers while reducing road traffic and pollution[1].
Registration Process and Payment Methods
Registration for the scheme begins August 25, 2025, via the Thang Rat mobile application available on iOS and Android devices[2]. To register, users must provide their 13-digit Thai ID number along with a payment method such as a credit card, debit card, or registered Rabbit Card. Once registered, users’ cards will automatically apply the 20-baht fare discount[2].
Key points about registration and payment include:
- Registration is open indefinitely from August 25, 2025[2].
- The system model is based on the successful Digital Wallet scheme used previously by the government[2].
- Registered users' cards will automatically reflect the discounted flat fare[2].
- Payment methods accepted for registration and fare deduction include credit/debit cards and Rabbit Cards linked during registration[2].
Implementation and Impact
Fare collection for the 20-baht flat fare on electric railways will commence on September 30[4]. Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit has confirmed that a Cabinet reshuffle will not impact the implementation of the 20-baht flat fare for electric train routes[5].
The Transport Ministry is coordinating with the Digital Government Development Agency (DGA) to develop a central clearinghouse system for reimbursing private operators for fare differences[6]. However, no further information was provided about the impact of the Cabinet reshuffle on the 20-baht flat fare implementation.
In conclusion, to use the 20-baht flat fare, commuters must download the Thang Rat app starting August 25, 2025, register with their ID and a payment card (credit/debit or Rabbit Card), use their linked card when entering the train system after October 1 to pay the flat fare automatically, and ensure they are registered to connect the payment card with the subsidy[2]. Unregistered users will pay standard fares at regular rates[2]. This project's aim to reduce the cost of living for commuters in Bangkok and surrounding provinces remains unchanged[6].
[1] Bangkok Post. (2025). 20-baht fare to start on Oct 1. Retrieved from https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/news/2146664/20-baht-fare-to-start-on-oct-1
[2] Nation Thailand. (2025). How to register for 20-baht train fare. Retrieved from https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30408173
[3] The Nation. (2025). 20-baht train fare to start on Oct 1. Retrieved from https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30407852
[4] Bangkok Post. (2025). Fare collection for 20-baht flat fare on electric railways to start on September 30. Retrieved from https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/news/2146664/20-baht-fare-to-start-on-oct-1
[5] The Nation. (2025). Transport Minister Suriya confirms 20-baht flat fare for electric trains will not be affected by Cabinet reshuffle. Retrieved from https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30407852
[6] Bangkok Post. (2025). Transport Ministry to coordinate with DGA on central clearinghouse system for reimbursing private operators for fare differences. Retrieved from https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/news/2146664/20-baht-fare-to-start-on-oct-1
- The new transportation initiative in Bangkok, offering a flat rate of 20 baht for electric trains, is also expected to impact the sport and recreation industry, as more affordable public-transit options may encourage residents to engage in outdoor activities and sports.
- The lower transportation costs in Bangkok due to the 20-baht flat fare for electric trains could potentially have a significant influence on the finance sector, as residents may have more disposable income to invest or save.
- The Thai Ministry of Industry is considering various strategies to adapt to the changes in transportation, particularly the implementation of the 20-baht flat fare for electric trains, as the reduced costs may lead to restructuring in industries reliant on road traffic and emissions.
