Bangkok rail projects transfer: Administration shifts major developments to MRTA

In a bid to shift focus towards improving the quality of life and education for citizens, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is set to transfer responsibility for three new monorail and light rail transit projects to the Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA). These Bangkok rail projects, estimated at over 150 billion baht, were disclosed by Chadchart Sittipunt, the governor of Bangkok, yesterday.

The 57 year old Bangkok governor expressed faith in the MRTA to handle these major Bangkok railway projects, especially considering the government’s recent prioritisation of such ventures.

“There are many things that the BMA needs to do. With that said, transferring those projects to the MRTA is a better choice.”

Chadchart perceives the transfer of Bangkok rail projects as a strategic move, considering that several railway lines under BMA’s care interchange with those under the MRTA. This includes the operational Yellow and Orange lines and the newly launched Pink Line.

The three Bangkok rail projects set to be transferred include the Grey monorail line, connecting Watcharapol to Thong Lor, the Silver Line, a light rail transit system linking Bang Na to Suvarnabhumi Airport, and the BTS Green Line extensions from Bang Wa to Taling Chan.

Research and development for the Grey and Silver lines have been completed by the BMA, with both expected to utilise the public-private partnership (PPP) investment method with 30-year concession contracts. Approval for these projects is anticipated within the year.

The Green Line extensions, however, are currently in the research and development phase, following an earlier study on investment value, reported Bangkok Post.

The proposal for the Bangkok rail project transfers will be presented to the Commission for the Management of Road Traffic, chaired by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The proposal requires a policy-level discussion between the Interior Ministry and Transport Ministry. Upon approval, the MRTA will assume full responsibility for investment plans and contract management, as shared by Chadchart.

In related news, Atiphu Jittanukrao, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Rail Transport, revealed plans to propose a zone fare for electric train services in Bangkok. The rate is expected to start at 20 baht in the primary zone, the Blue Line, with a 5 baht increase in other zones.