Thais swap to vans after discovering MRT Pink Line’s prices
For many, the new MRT Pink Line was supposed to be a godsend. The convenience of Bangkok’s electric railway that has been one of the most popular methods of travel was now accessible. But their hopes were quickly dashed when the prices were announced on 7th January 2024.
Here are the prices and the swift public response to them.
MRT Pink Line in service after delays
Image credit: รถไฟฟ้ามหานคร สายสีชมพู via Facebook
Originally planned for 3rd January 2024, the Pink Line’s opening was delayed to the 7th after an incident with conductor rails. Despite the delay, what excitement people had for the new MRT line quickly died down after prices were announced.
The Pink Line’s promotional fares range from ฿13 to ฿38, reaching its maximum cost after 15 stations out of the 30. To put this in perspective, it takes 6 stations for the fare to cost ฿40 from Siam along the BTS Sukhumvit Line.
While this might seem to be a good deal on the surface, there are many reasons why people are unhappy with the prices.
Public response to pricing
Image credit: รถไฟฟ้ามหานคร สายสีชมพู via Facebook
Thais were quick to point out that the prices were too steep for the new line. In fact, many wanted to swap back to buses and shared vans which were cheaper.
First, Thais were already wary because this was a promotional price due to the new opening and its issues.
Thai netizens pointed out that if the new public transport was supposed to alleviate some of Bangkok’s notorious traffic problems, then the fact that it costs more for those who’d use it would be detrimental.
A Thai content creator shared his experience with using the new Pink Line on X (formerly Twitter). In it, he describes having to swap multiple lines, tons of walking, which culminated in hailing a motorbike taxi. The commute took him 2 hours. Yet, it still cost him twice the amount compared to just driving there.
So while the new line may extend convenient access to many, it is still far from perfect.
Further more, there are also complaints about long waiting times that can stretch to up to 20 minutes.
To use or not to use the new MRT Pink Line
The MRT Pink Line has no doubt increased access to the city for many. But its new prices and waiting times have left many unhappy.
Only time will tell if people will begin to use the new line en masse. A little promotion for frequent riders wouldn’t hurt though.
If you’re already a frequent rider for the Pink Line, check out our guide to activities you can do along it here. Otherwise, you could check out Bangkok’s best tom yum spots here or our guide to one of the hottest malls in Bangkok ICONSIAM.
Cover image adapted from: รถไฟฟ้ามหานคร สายสีชมพู via Facebook