Post by : Shakul

The Government of Thailand has announced a major public transport relief initiative under the “Thai Helps Thai Plus 60/40” project, allowing commuters to receive subsidized MRT fares through the Paotang mobile application. The scheme will officially begin on June 1 and continue until September 30, 2026, covering four important MRT lines in Bangkok.

According to the Mass Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA), the program has been launched to reduce the financial burden on citizens affected by the ongoing global energy crisis linked to tensions in the Middle East. Authorities believe the project will help people manage daily transportation costs while encouraging the use of safe and affordable public transport services.

The subsidy program includes the MRT Blue Line, MRT Purple Line, MRT Yellow Line, and MRT Pink Line. Under the scheme, the Thai government will pay 60 percent of the MRT fare while passengers will only be required to pay the remaining 40 percent. Government support is limited to a maximum of 200 baht per person per day and 1,000 baht per person each month during the four-month project period.

Passengers can use the benefits directly through the Paotang application at all MRT ticket counters between 6:00 AM and 11:00 PM. Travelers need to access the “Thai Helps Thai Plus 60/40” section in the app, scan the QR code provided at the station counter, confirm payment, and collect their single journey ticket before boarding the train.

Officials clarified that the benefits are available only for single-trip ticket purchases for general passengers and senior citizens. The subsidy cannot be used for adding balance to Rabbit Cards, EMV Spider Cards, or MRT EMV Cards. Travelers also cannot use the scheme for parking fees, penalty charges, or refunds and cash exchanges related to MRT tickets.

Eligibility for the program is restricted to Thai nationals who are at least 18 years old at the time of registration. Individuals holding State Welfare Cards or those previously suspended from earlier co-payment schemes are not eligible to participate in the project. Authorities have also opened multiple helpline services to assist passengers and answer queries regarding registration and usage.

The MRTA stated that all participating MRT operators are fully prepared for the implementation of the program and expect heavy public response during the four-month subsidy period. Transport officials believe the initiative will help boost public confidence in Bangkok’s urban transport network while easing daily travel expenses for thousands of commuters.

#Thailand News #Transport #World News