Bangkok plans new central bus terminal for better city connectivity
The Transport Ministry is considering relocating Bangkok’s inter-provincial bus terminals to the Krungthep Aphiwat Central Terminal to enhance connectivity with the city’s mass transit system.
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit discussed this proposal with the Policy Monitoring Committee, instructing the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy Planning (OTP) to explore the feasibility of consolidating all state-operated bus terminals within this new central terminal.
The proposed move would affect three main terminals: the Bangkok Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2) in Chatuchak district, serving the north and northeast, the Ekkamai Bus Terminal in Khlong Toey district for the eastern provinces, and the New Southern Bus Terminal in Taling Chan district.
The OTP is tasked with assessing how this change would impact travellers and traffic management around the Krungthep Aphiwat Central Terminal.
The initiative aims to transform the central terminal into a significant transport hub, offering travellers seamless transitions between different transport modes. Suriya referenced Hakata Station in Fukuoka as an example, where rail and bus connections are efficiently integrated.
He expressed confidence that consolidating the city’s bus terminals would enhance public transport service efficiency, providing a more convenient, faster, and safer experience.
OTP Director General Panya Chupanich mentioned that the office expects to finalise the plan within four months. In the interim, the OTP will seek a budget to engage consultants for a feasibility study, anticipated to last at least 12 months.
The new bus terminal is envisioned as a multi-level structure, akin to Hakata Station, with each floor designated for departures to various regions. The underground area will serve as an interchange for buses operated by the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority and include a waiting area for taxis and ride-hailing services.
The top floor is planned to house commercial spaces such as restaurants, coffee shops, and souvenir shops. Revenue from these commercial areas will support the terminal’s maintenance, reported Bangkok Post.
Latest Thailand News
