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108-673: The second MRT line MRT Purple Line , officially the Chalong Ratchadham Line , opened on 6 August 2016 and connected Tao Poon with Khlong Bang Phai in Nonthaburi in the northwest of Greater Bangkok. It was the first mass transit line to extend outside Bangkok. Both the Blue Line and Purple Line are operated by the Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited (BEM) under a concession granted by

216-724: A monorail line. The line was originally proposed as the Gold Line by the Pheu Thai party for the Bangkok Governors election held in March 2013. This was in response to objections by Kasetsart University to long proposed Expressway extensions in the area. The line would essentially have replaced the need to build an elevated Expressway. However, the Pheu Thai candidate did not win the Bangkok Governor election and

324-643: A 28 percent stake in BTSC when the Skytrain began, and therefore in its early days the system was sometimes referred to as the "Thanayong Skytrain". Siemens , the supplier of the railway technology, and the Thai contractor, Italian Thai Development, built the system for BTSC. The "Skytrain" name was bestowed later by the press following the Vancouver example where the elevated metro had been named "Skytrain". Originally,

432-674: A 9 km, five station extension along Lam Luk Ka Road to Lam Luk Ka. Due to the significant delay in the northern extension plans, in mid-2013 it was decided by the MRTA to tender extensions (1) & (2) at the same time by the end of 2013. However, the dissolution of parliament in November 2013 delayed this yet again. A tender was finally released in January 2014 with an April deadline before being delayed until late May 2014 due to concerns from bidders. A military coup in late-May suspended

540-542: A bid in MRTA's concession contract for the blue line. As MRTA's concessionaire, BEM provides M&E equipment, including electrical trains, signalling systems, SCADA, communication, PSD, etc. for the subway project and fully operates the system. To maintain the system, BEM has subcontracted in 10 years to Siemens which was the M&;E system supplier since system opening and 7 years maintenance contract to two local maintenance services for north and south line. The construction of

648-693: A carrying capacity of 40,000 people in each direction per hour. Similar to the Skytrain , the Metro uses trains supplied by Siemens which travel up to 80 km/h (50 mph). Passengers can connect to the Skytrain at Si Lom , Sukhumvit and Chatuchak Park stations. The Blue Line has a large depot located on the large MRTA Headquarters in Huai Khwang district and accessed via a spur line located between Phra Ram 9 and Thailand Cultural Centre stations. The 48-kilometer-long MRT Blue line will serve as

756-554: A central trailer car. In an effort to utilize renewable energy, the Bangkok Expressway and Metro company has entered into a 25-year power purchase agreement with CK Power. This agreement aims to supply the mass transit system with 452 million kWh of electricity, primarily sourced from solar energy. The ticketing system for the Blue and Purple Lines uses RFID contactless technology with round tokens issued for single trips and

864-600: A circle line for Bangkok's metro rail system, providing connections to all other major lines, including the SRT Red Lines and the Airport Rail Link . However the complete track does not form a circle, but rather a figure 6. So to ride the complete circle one has either to start at Tha Phra or change trains there. The MRT Purple line is divided into two sections, the first 23 kilometer stage from Khlong Bang Phai - Tao Poon which opened on 6 August 2016, and

972-418: A combination of changes in government, a prolonged environmental study, and problems with locating a suitable train depot, the extension has been continually delayed. A further 16.5 km, nine station extension from Saphan Mai to Lam Lukka was also planned once the extension to Saphan Mai had been completed. This was subsequently split into two extensions. A 7.5 km, four station extension to Khu Khot and

1080-420: A concession framework. For the first MRT line, officially known as Chaloem Ratchamongkhon or informally as the "Blue Line", civil infrastructure was provided by the government sector, Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand ( MRTA ), and handed over to their concessionaire under a 25-year concession agreement. Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited (BEM) was the only private sector company that won

1188-800: A contactless stored value card, the MRT Plus card, for frequent travellers. It is planned that a joint ticketing system will be set up so that passengers can use a single ticket on the MRT as well as on the Skytrain . Multi-storey park & ride facilities are provided at Lat Phrao and Thailand Cultural Centre . Motorists who park their cars within station parking facilities are issued with additional contactless smartcards and they need to have them electronically stamped at their destination station. Smart cards are available in two types: Children under 15 or whose height does not exceed 90 cm may ride for free. Reduced fares for older children and half price fares for

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1296-619: A contract worth 12.6 billion baht. East Japan Railway train manufacturing subsidiary J-TREC built them in Yokohama with the first sets delivered in early 2016. The trains are owned by the MRTA which paid for the rolling stock at BEMs request. The southern extension will acquire 17 additional trains, along with the current ones, to create a total of 38 trains. In total, line is service by 21 three-car trains. Trains are powered by 750 V DC via third rail system, are air-conditioned and capable of traveling at up to 80 km/h (50 mph). When

1404-737: A large residential area in Bang Yai District and crosses the Chao Phraya River on a bridge parallel to the Phra Nang Klao Bridge and runs towards Nonthaburi Civic Center station. The line then turns southward onto Tiwanon Road, passing the Ministry of Public Health and turns southeast onto Krung Thep-Nonthaburi Road, entering Yaek Tiwanon station. The line then enters Bangkok city limits at Bang Sue district and passes Bang Son station before terminating at

1512-436: A later date. The extension was funded by the MRTA as it is outside BMA city limits. The extension was planned to open in 2017. In April 2013, the MRTA awarded Ch Karnchang the contract for track laying and electrical systems. Construction was completed in 2017, but arguments over who should operate the line delayed the opening. One station, Samrong opened earlier, on 3 April 2017. The full extension opened on 6 December 2018 and

1620-637: A planned 19.8 kilometer southern extension from Tao Poon - Phra Pradaeng . The Purple line currently serves travel demand between the northwestern suburbs of Bangkok in Nonthaburi Province to the mid north areas of Bangkok where it links with the Blue line . Eventually, the line will link with the southern area of Thonburi in Phra Pradaeng District , Samut Prakan Province with a southern extension. This extension will serve

1728-509: A shuttle service to S09 and S10 as there was no turnout at S10 for through trains. Since the opening of the final section of the extension to Bang Wa station on 5 December 2013, this is no longer the case. Construction started in April 2012 for a 12.6 km (7.8 mi), seven station extension from Bearing station (E14) to Samut Prakan Station (E23). The extension is being built by Ch. Karnchang . Two stations (E18 & E22) will be built at

1836-460: A significant delay. The subsequent political turmoil of 2014 caused further delay. Thereafter, the coup of May 2014 resulted in a new military administration and the tender being deferred for 2014. The MRTA tender was subsequently not released until mid-2016. In early December 2016, BSR Joint Venture (comprising BTS Group Holdings which owns 75%, Sino-Thai Engineering and Construction - STEC, and Ratchaburi Electricity Generation Holding - RATCH), won

1944-804: Is 70,000. A 23.63 km (14.68 mi), 17 station southern extension of the line consisting of a 14.3 km (8.89 mi) underground section and a 9.3 km (5.78 mi) elevated section commenced construction in August 2022. The cost of the southern extension is 82 billion baht and it is planned to open at the end of 2027. By the end of May 2023, construction had progressed to 11.50%. The Purple line starts from Khlong Bang Phai station in Bang Bua Thong District . The line travels south along Kanchanaphisek Road before turning eastward near Central WestGate , onto Rattanathibet Road . It continues along Rattanathibet Road, passing through

2052-490: Is Bangkok's fifth rapid transit line , following the Sukhumvit Line , Silom Line , MRT Blue Line , and Airport Rail Link . The line is 23 km (14 mi) long, serving the north-western area of Bangkok running from Tao Poon to Klong Bang Phai in Nonthaburi Province . The line opened on 6 August 2016. It is the second line of MRT system and is operated by BEM under a concession contract. Daily ridership

2160-599: Is a monorail line. It runs in the northern part of the city from east Bangkok in Minburi District (also transfers to MRT Orange Line ) along Ram Inthra Road to west Bangkok ( Pak Kret district , Nonthaburi Province ) Chaeng Watthana Road and Tiwanon Road ending at Nonthaburi Civic Center with interchange to the MRT Purple Line . The line also transfers with the SRT Dark Red Line ,

2268-699: Is an elevated rapid transit system in Bangkok , Thailand . It is operated by Bangkok Mass Transit System PCL (BTSC), a subsidiary of BTS Group Holdings , under a concession granted by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) which owns the lines. The system consists of 62 stations along three lines with a combined route length of 70.05 kilometers (43.53 mi). The BTS Sukhumvit Line runs northwards and south-eastwards, terminating at Khu Khot and Kheha respectively. The BTS Silom Line which serves Silom and Sathon Roads,

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2376-520: Is at 750 V DC from the third rail . The rolling stock of BTS Skytrain, in use when the line opened in 1999, consisted of 35 Siemens Modular Metro trains from Siemens . These initial trains had three cars, two motor cars and one trailer in the center. The Sukhumvit Line used 20 trains, and the Silom Line had 15. After the 12 new car CNR trains were delivered for the Silom Line in December 2010,

2484-462: Is dedicated to the platforms and rails. Most stations adopt a side platform layout, with the notable exceptions of Siam Station, Ha Yaek Lat Phrao Station, and Samrong , which utilize island platforms. Siam Station features island platforms to enable easy cross-platform interchange between the two lines of the system. The platform design accommodates the precise positioning of train doors, with equal distances between doors in all cars. Markings on

2592-615: Is expected to be tendered in 2024. This line should not be confused with the original 2004 13 km MRT Brown Line proposal from Bang Kapi to Min Buri . This was subsequently merged in 2009 into an extended MRT Orange Line . On 17 January 2005, just after 09:15, an empty train returning to the depot collided with a peak-hour train filled with passengers at the Thailand Cultural Centre MRT station . 140 people were hurt, most of whom sustained only minor injuries and

2700-612: Is possible because Wat Phra Si Mahathat station has paid-area integration between the Sukhumvit Line and the MRT Pink Line. At Samrong station, passengers transferring between the Sukhumvit Line and the MRT Yellow Line must insert their single-journey ticket into the fare gates. The readers will then return the ticket, which passengers can tap at the other fare gates to continue their journey. At its opening,

2808-606: Is under construction government. (km) The planned southern extension from Tao Pun - Rat Burana will run south through Bangkok's old quarter from Tao Pun Junction on a viaduct . It then will go into an underground structure along Sam Sen Road, passing the new Thai parliament site, and transfers to the proposed Red inner-city shortcut commuter at Sanghi intersection. It passes the national library in Dusit District before it reaches Phra Nakhon District at Thewet Market. The line turns east at Bang Lamphu and goes along

2916-575: The BTS Sukhumvit Line extension to Lam Lukka, and the BMA Proposed MRT Grey Line in the future. The Pink line was due to be tendered in the 3rd quarter of 2013 with construction due to commence in early 2014. However, delays in preparation of the tender in relation to the selection of monorail rolling stock and subsequent political protests resulting in a snap national election in early February 2014, further delayed

3024-500: The Chao Phraya River near Phra Pinklao Bridge , passes Siriraj Hospital and goes along Bangkok Noi Rail line and terminates at Bang Khun Non Station , interchanges with MRT Blue Line again. The total length is 35.9 km. This Line is divided into 2 sections The phase 1 Eastern section began construction in June 2017 with a planned 2024 opening. The Phase 2 Western section extension from Thailand Cultural Centre to Bang Khun Non

3132-543: The MRT Blue Line , after completion in April 2020, the Blue Line has become a quasi loop line (providing interchange with itself at Tha Phra) around the centre of Bangkok. The MRT Yellow Line monorail, officially the Nakkhara Phiphat Line , opened for trial operation in June 2023 and was fully opened on 3 July 2023. The MRT Pink Line monorail opened for public trial operation in November 2023, and

3240-589: The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) which is the owner of the MRT lines. Along with the BTS Skytrain and the Airport Rail Link , the MRT is part of Bangkok's rail transportation infrastructure . The BEM-operated MRT lines have 470,000 passengers each day (Blue Line 400,000 and Purple Line 70,000) with 54 operational stations and a combined route length of 71 kilometers (44 mi). Construction began in mid-2011 to extend

3348-832: The Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT) system. Additionally, the Saphan Taksin station is conveniently connected to the adjacent Sathon Pier, which is a stop for the Chao Phraya Express Boat services. Many of these stations are also connected to nearby buildings and public amenities through skybridges , providing easy and convenient access for pedestrians. Since 2014, platform screen doors (half size) have been installed in several stations including On Nut, Phrom Phong, Asok, Chit Lom, Siam, Thong Lor, Phaya Thai, Victory Monument, Sala Daeng, Chong Nonsi and Surasak. However, it's noteworthy that

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3456-538: The Pink Line at Min Buri station from eastern suburb in and goes underground near Lam Sali intersection in Bang Kapi District , also transfers to MRT Yellow Line . It continues southwest along Ramkhamhaeng Road, passing Hua Mak Stadium and Ramkhamhaeng University . Then it turns to the west and crosses Pradit Manutham Road to the current MRT depot. Then it goes to Thailand Cultural Centre Station ,

3564-503: The Purple Line opened on 6 August 2016. The 1.2 km missing link of the Blue Line between Bang Sue and Tao Poon, connecting the two lines opened on 11 August 2017. The first section of the Blue Line extension from Hua Lamphong via Tha Phra to Lak Song opened for full operation on 29 September 2019. The Pink and Yellow Lines opened in 2023. (km) (August 2024) The MRT Blue Line presently runs from Tha Phra to Lak Song and has

3672-534: The 2nd quarter of 2011 with a deadline of the end of 2012. Only the stations had to be constructed as the viaduct had been completed some years prior. However, construction was delayed for many months by the Bangkok floods of late 2011. It eventually opened in stages. Pho Nimit opened on 12 January 2013, Talat Phlu opened on 14 February 2013, with the last two stations opening on 5 December 2013. For most of 2013, passengers changed platforms and trains at Wongwian Yai for

3780-597: The BMA to offer free travel for this extension until the end of 2011 as compensation. A flat fare separate from the distance based fare normal in the BTS network was then charged for this section. However, distance based fares are now used for this extension. The third extension to the network, a 5.3 km, four station extension from Wongwian Yai (S8) to Bang Wa (S12) in Phasi Charoen District began construction in

3888-685: The BTS Smartpass was introduced. However, in May 2012, it was replaced by the Rabbit Card, a more advanced electronic payment system. The Rabbit Card not only covers fares for the BTS and the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) but also functions as a payment method for various services and restaurants associated with the BTS. For single journeys, passengers can purchase tickets from machines at the stations. These tickets are tapped upon entering

3996-533: The BTS had 23 stations on its two lines: 17 on the Sukhumvit Line and 7 on the Silom Line , with both lines interchanging at Siam. Since then, 30 additional stations have opened on the Sukhumvit Line and 6 on the Silom Line, with the latest new three stations at Gold Line . Name (km) In 2002, the cabinet of then Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra amended laws in order to allow private firms to finance

4104-484: The BTSC has announced that the free travel concession on this section will continue until the new train sets arrive to allow for the new section to be fully functional. An 11.4 km, 12 station northern extension from Mo Chit station to Saphan Mai in Don Mueang District has been planned since the Sukhumvit Line opened. Originally, this extension was scheduled to be completed by 2008. However, due to

4212-608: The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) succeeded in finding a private investor. Krisda also convinced everyone concerned to allow the city supervise the project. Keeree Kanjanapas founded the Bangkok Transit System Corporation (BTSC) and it successfully financed the system and grew it from a feeder system to a full mass transit project. Thanayong Public Company Limited Thai : บริษัท ธนายง จำกัด (มหาชน) ) had

4320-491: The Blue Line from nearby Bang Sue station to Tao Poon Station . In the 1990s, the plan for the Purple Line was to run from Bang Phut to Bang Sue for 12 kilometres (7.5 mi), with an extension to Thewet for 6.7 kilometers (4.2 mi). This line was created from the adjustment of the 1994 mass transit rail system master plan, which connected the original extension of the Blue Line from Tao Poon to Bang Yai, while

4428-519: The EIA was finalised in March 2019. Construction of the station began in August 2019 and by the end of 2019 had reached 25% progress. By August 2020, construction had reached 50% but was 30% behind schedule due to COVID related delays. The station opened on 8 February 2021. BTS Group Holdings will tender to operate more BTS and MRT lines in the future through financing from its BTS Rail Mass Transit Growth Infrastructure Fund after it received approval from

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4536-584: The Gold Line was dropped with the Deputy Minister of Transport stating that land appropriation costs were too high. Subsequently, OTP has reworked the Gold Line proposal into a new Brown Line following much the same route. As of June 2013, the route was under preliminary study by OTP. Public hearings on the Brown line were held in 2017. The MOT announced that a 14-month feasibility study into the line would be completed in 2018. By August 2018, OTP had completed

4644-713: The MRTA Deputy Governor stated that daily ridership for the Purple Line had increased to 60,000 each weekday. After the opening of the Blue Line extension to Lak Song on 29 September 2019, daily ridership increased to 400,000 for the Blue line and 70,000 for the Purple line. Ridership decreased significantly during the outbreak of coronavirus in Thailand. MRT Purple Line The MRT Purple line ( Thai : รถไฟฟ้ามหานคร สายสีม่วง ) or MRT Chalong Ratchadham line ( Thai : รถไฟฟ้ามหานคร สายฉลองรัชธรรม )

4752-588: The MRTA contracted consultants to undertake detailed designs of the Yellow Line. In February 2013, OTP stated that the tender for the Yellow line should be ready by late 2013 for tender in early 2014. However, similar to the Pink Line, delays in finalising the technical requirements of the tender in relation to the selection of monorail rolling stock which determines the type of track to be constructed resulted in

4860-507: The PPP process resulted in a new tender date of April 2020 but this has been further delayed with an expected tender by the end of 2020. Construction contracts were finally signed in March 2022 for a planned 2027 opening date. The Orange Line will start from Yaek Rom Klao station in Min Buri district as an elevated structure on Ramkhamhaeng Road (former Suka Phiban III Road), interchanging with

4968-421: The Pink Line tender. A subsequent coup in May 2014 resulted in a new military administration and the tender being deferred for 2014. The MRTA tender was subsequently not released until mid-2016. In early December 2016, BSR Joint Venture (comprising BTS Group Holdings which owns 75%, Sino-Thai Engineering and Construction - STEC, and Ratchaburi Electricity Generation Holding - RATCH), won the bid. The BSR also won

5076-425: The Purple line first opened daily ridership was only 22,000 compared to projected numbers of 100,000. After the opening of the Blue Line extension to Tao Poon 1 year later in August 2017, daily average ridership increased significantly from 33,000 to 50,000. In August 2018, the MRTA Deputy Governor stated that daily ridership had increased to 60,000 each weekday. By late 2019, this had increased to 70,000. In 2023

5184-612: The Silom Line by 7 km from Bang Wa (S12) station , by six stations to Taling Chan . At Taling Chan it would connect with the SRT Light Red line . A public hearing was held in 2015. Three route options were considered, with construction intended to start in 2017. Part of the basis for this further extension by the BMA is that it would provide proximate access to the Southern Bus Terminal. The BMA Transport and Traffic Office completed an economic evaluation of

5292-661: The Skytrain and the Airport Rail Link. The MRT and the SRT Red Lines, in contrast, accept EMV (Europay, Mastercard, and Visa) contactless payment, allowing passengers to use their credit or debit cards directly at the entry gates. Additionally, passengers can purchase single-journey tickets at BTS Skytrain stations (except for the Gold Line ) to any station on the MRT Pink Line and MRT Yellow Line . This

5400-555: The Skytrain depot was to be built underneath Lumphini Park , but due to widespread objections from Bangkok residents it was constructed on a parcel of land on Phahonyothin Road , replacing the old northern/northeastern bus terminal ( Mo Chit ). The current depot at Mo Chit is part of the proposed "Bangkok Terminal" project, where a large complex composed of a new regional bus terminal, park and ride facility, and other commercial development can be built directly above it. The Skytrain system

5508-508: The Skytrain on a single day for the first time. By September 2012, the Skytrain served around 600,000 passengers on an average day, increasing to 650,000 on an average weekday in 2013. A record 760,000 passengers traveled on Sunday, 22 December 2013, a day of mass political protest in Bangkok. The normal Sunday average is 400,000 passengers. The BTS had a fleet of 52 four-car trains (208 carriages) by 2017. 46 new four-car trains (184 carriages) were ordered to address growing capacity requirements of

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5616-587: The Skytrain project was known as the Lavalin Skytrain because it was designed using the Vancouver SkyTrain as a model, adopting technology developed by SNC-Lavalin . Due to political interference, the concession with Lavalin was cancelled in June 1992, despite Bangkok's chronic traffic congestion . The Thai government focused on increasing road and expressway infrastructure in an attempt to reduce congestion. This had little impact, as

5724-478: The Thai Securities and Exchange Commission in March 2013. The IPO raised US$ 2.1 billion, the largest in Thailand's history. A further 9 km, five station extension from Khu Khot station to Wongwaen-Lam Luk Ka station is planned to be constructed by 2029. After the opening of Wutthakat (S11) and Bang Wa (S12) stations 5 December 2013, the BMA announced a new proposal to further extended

5832-539: The accident might be a much higher figure than BMCL quoted, and it was expected to be at least 400 million baht, which was totally insured by a local insurance company. The Metro resumed full operation on 1 February 2005, and passenger numbers soon rose back to pre-crash levels, partly due to a temporary promotional fare scheme which allowed passengers to travel any distance on the MRT for only ten baht (~US$ 0.33). The first few years of operations saw less than forecast ridership, but pax numbers grew gradually over time. After

5940-555: The alignment crosses over and transfers to the current MRT Blue Line . It continues via Din Daeng housing estates and Bangkok City Hall 2 to Vibhavadi Rangsit Road , Sam Liam Din Daeng Junction. Then turn left into Ratchaprarop Road towards Pratunam and turn right into Phetchaburi Road then interchange with BTS Sukhumvit Line at Ratchathewi Station . It continues along Larn Luang Road and Ratchadamnoen Road. Then it crosses

6048-496: The bid for the Yellow Line project. On 16 June 2017, the Pink Line project contracts were signed with the BSR consortium by the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand with a scheduled operational date of 2022. Construction of the MRT Pink Line began in late 2017. The line opened for trial operation in November 2023 and is due to be fully operational by December 2023. The BSR has proposed a 2.8 km spur monorail route to link to Impact, Muang Thong Thani from Si Rat station which

6156-580: The bid for the project. The BSR also won the bid the Pink Line project. On 16 June 2017, a contract was signed for the Lat Phrao-Samrong section with the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand by a consortium including BTS Group Holdings , Sino-Thai Engineering and Construction, and Ratchaburi Electricity Generation Holding. Construction of the MRT Yellow Line began in March 2018, and free trial operations began from Hua Mak station to Samrong BTS Station in June 2023. Full operations began on July 3, 2023. The 35.5 km long MRT Pink line has 30 stations and

6264-422: The bidding process while the military administration reviewed all major projects. In late-June, the military administration affirmed the tender which will proceed before the end of 2014. In mid-August, the MRTA announced that the new tender deadline would be 30 September 2014. Five bidders qualified with successful bids to be announced by December. The contract to construct the line for both extensions (1) & (2)

6372-404: The bottleneck and keep the station which provides an important link between river boats. The plan includes redesigning the road bridges either side of the viaduct to fit the new station. A second extension, the 5.25 km On Nut station (E9) to Bearing station (E14) started construction in August 2006. The 4 billion baht extension was again funded by the BMA. The original scheduled opening date

6480-410: The central business district of Bangkok, terminates at National Stadium and Bang Wa . The Gold Line people mover runs from Krung Thon Buri to Klong San and serves Iconsiam . The lines interchange at Siam station and Krung Thon Buri . The system is formally known as "The Elevated Train in Commemoration of HM the King's 6th Cycle Birthday" ( รถไฟฟ้าเฉลิมพระเกียรติ 6 รอบ พระชนมพรรษา ). Besides

6588-683: The city is built. The Blue Line was opened for a limited public trial period of several weeks starting on 13 April 2004. On 3 July 2004 the line was officially opened at 19:19 local time by HM King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit , who were accompanied by other members of the royal family. Within 30 minutes of its opening, sightseers filled the system to its maximum capacity, but after the initial rush ridership has settled down to around 180,000 riders daily — considerably lower than projections of over 400,000, despite fares being slashed in half from 12 to 38 baht to 10-15 baht per trip. From 2006 until 2008, fares ranged between 14 and 36 baht per trip. The fare

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6696-424: The city moat to the south, with transfers possible to the MRT Orange Line at Ratchadamnoen Road near the Democracy Monument . It passes Golden Mount before possible transfers to the extension of the Blue Line at Wang Burapha near Yaowarat Road in Chinatown and the Phahurat textile market. The line crosses the Chao Phraya River near the Memorial Bridge towards the Wongwian Yai roundabout in Thonburi on

6804-546: The cost of operating the train system, while the government would undertake civil engineering works to build new extensions. Timeline of BTS openings On 18 October 2005, with no approval from the central government forthcoming, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) decided to fund and complete the 2.2 kilometers (1.4 mi) Silom Line route extension to Krung Thon Buri Station (S7) and Wongwian Yai Station (S8). Construction began on 13 December 2005 with completion originally expected within two years. However, problems with

6912-614: The elderly also apply when buying a token at the booth. From January 2022, MRT started accepting a new payment fare type for Blue Line and Purple Line via EMV Contactless (Europay Mastercard and Visa). The Yellow and Pink lines accept cash, EMV Contactless, and the Rabbit Card . The first line, the Blue Line , opened on 3 July 2004. It runs eastward from Tao Poon Station in Bang Sue District along Kamphaeng Phet, Phahon Yothin and Lat Phrao Roads, then turns south following Ratchadaphisek Road , then west following Rama IV Road to Hua Lamphong Station in Pathum Wan District . The second line,

7020-406: The entire Metro network was shut down for two weeks. After initial investigations, it was found that the empty train had run into problems shortly before the accident, grinding to a halt on a curve leading to the depot. The driver applied the train brake and was waiting to be towed to the maintenance centre close to the Thailand Cultural Centre station . A rescue train was attempting to connect to

7128-441: The existing lines to cater for the Sukhumvit Line extensions south to Kheha and north to Khu Khot. They were delivered from 2018 to 2020. On March 5, 2020, the BTS made a song about the COVID-19 pandemic , as an antidote to the grim warnings about the coronavirus, showing the staff dancing and keeping hygiene. The system's stations are all elevated and designed with three distinct levels. At street level, passengers can access

7236-443: The extension in October 2018 which found a cost benefit ratio of 2.37. The study recommended that an EIA be completed in 2019 but this was delayed. In 2022, Department of Rail Transport ("DRT") was announced that the Silom Line will be part of the new M-Map 2 action plan. This plan will be extended the Silom Line from Bang Wa (S12) to Bang Rak Noi Tha It (S23) on the Ratchaphruek road by 18 kilometers and 11 stations. The first part of

7344-426: The extension was projected to enter service sometime in 2027. However, the tender was delayed yet again and subsequently cancelled in August 2021 until it was finally issued in November 2021. Construction contracts were signed on 11 March 2022 with a 2005 construction period for an ambitious planned 2027 opening date. Contactors were issued with a Notice to Proceed on 25 April 2022 giving them access to sites along

7452-427: The extension will be end at Taling Chan (S16) to connect with the SRT Light Red line. The second part of the extension will be end at Bang Rak Noi Tha It (S23) in Nonthaburi province to connect with the MRT Purple Line at current MRT station . In this extension, DRT proposed the new main depot to separate the system depot from the Sukhumvit Line. Which make the Silom Line will be completely standalone system. However,

7560-421: The extension will be start until the Saphan Taksin station (S6) was renovated into double track. The Silom Line is planned to be extended by one or two stations west along Rama 1 from National Stadium (W1) to link with the SRT Dark Red Line at Yot Se station. However, no time frame for this extension has been announced and this section of the SRT Dark Red Line will not be built until after 2022. Originally,

7668-421: The feasibility study and conducted public hearings. Although, there was much public support for building the MRT Brown line, public opposition to the N2 expressway remained high. OTP intends to submit the project for Cabinet approval by the end of October 2018. In early June 2019, the MRTA Board approved the investment plan for the Brown Line and integrated design with the N2 Expressway conducted by EXAT. The project

7776-430: The first Bangkok Metro line, officially known as Chaloem Ratchamongkhon (Thai สายเฉลิมรัชมงคล) – "Celebration of Royal Auspice" – or informally as the "Blue Line", began on 19 November 1996. The project suffered multiple delays not only because of the 1997 economic crisis , but also due to challenging civil engineering works of constructing massive underground structures deep in the water-logged soil upon which

7884-404: The installation process has not been without issues. For instance, the installation at Phrom Phong station in December 2013 led to a software problem, resulting in a six-hour shutdown of all BTS services. This shutdown caused significant traffic congestion in the city. Fares for the Skytrain in Bangkok are determined based on the distance traveled. Initially, in 2007, a stored-value card known as

7992-486: The line for nearly 1 year. In June 2013, five people were injured when six beams fell onto vehicles below Tao Poon station. In July 2014, the civil work was 94 percent complete; in October 2014, civil work was stated to be 99% complete. The line opened on August 6, 2016, when His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej graciously appointed Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn to represent him in presiding over

8100-405: The line. The length of the southern extension is 23.63 km (14.68 mi) (14.29 km (8.88 mi) underground, 9.34 km (5.80 mi) elevated with 17 stations - ten underground and seven elevated). The Thai Cabinet was expected to approve the tender in mid 2017 with a tender then to be issued in the second half of 2017. On 25 July 2017, Cabinet approval was given, but the tender

8208-717: The new Thai parliament construction site at Kiak Kai intersection and will run along Samsen Road , then passing through the historic old quarter of Bangkok Rattanakosin Island and many historical places in Dusit and Phra Nakhon District like the national library , Thewet market, Bang Lamphu, the Democracy Monument , the Golden Mount , Phahurat near Chinatown. It then runs near the Memorial Bridge over

8316-666: The number of cars on the road continued to increase dramatically. The routes considered as part of the Skytrain project would become the basis for the MRT system and are mainly underground. In the early 1990s, foundations and a viaduct for the Lavalin Skytrain were constructed in the middle of the Phra Pok Klao Bridge across the Chao Phraya River . The viaduct was redeveloped into a sky park in June 2020. Another abortive attempt at building an elevated rail network

8424-469: The opening ceremony and officially pressing the button to open the electric train system. However, the MRT Blue Line extension to Tao poon was delayed, so when it opened the Purple Line couldn't interchange with the Blue line as planned. This resulted in low line usage. Even with a reduced fare, the line only attracted about 22,000 passengers daily compared to a goal of 100,000. A shuttle bus service

8532-454: The opening of the Tao Poon interchange station between Blue Line and Purple Line in mid-August 2017, ridership immediately increased especially on the Purple Line. In September 2017, BEM stated that average daily ridership of the Blue Line had increased from 340,000 to 360,000 after the opening. The Purple line ridership significantly increased from 33,000 to nearly 50,000. In August 2018,

8640-594: The opposite direction at Kasetsart University , Mo Chit , and Samrong . This allows more frequent trains on the central sections of the lines without added investment in carriages. The BTS Skytrain uses two variations of electric multiple unit rolling stock . All operate on 1,435 mm ( 4 ft  8 + 1 ⁄ 2  in ) standard gauge . All trains have four doors on each side per car, an air-conditioning unit, and LCD monitors for public announcement and advertising. Public announcements are spoken by actress Ratklao Amaradit. The power supply for all trains

8748-643: The original Purple Line would have run from the National Library to Tao Poon and the original Orange Line from Samsen (National Library) to Rat Burana, becoming a new line designated as the Purple Line, included in the master plan of the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) for the first time in 2004. Five years later, the line's construction began. Construction was divided into six contracts, three of them for civil works. The contracts were signed from late 2009 to early 2010 and completion

8856-454: The paid area and inserted at the exit gates, where they are retained. The Mangmoom Card , designed for use across multiple transport systems including the Skytrain, the MRT , and the Airport Rail Link , has experienced several delays. Originally planned for a 2015 launch, it is not yet valid for use on the BTS as of the current date. Currently, passengers need to purchase separate tickets for travel on different Bangkok train systems, namely

8964-608: The plan was to extend the Silom Line west from National Stadium into Chinatown, then north to Democracy Monument where it would then run west to Rattanakosin Island and Sanum Luang, tunnel under the river to the Thonburi side before terminating at Phran Nok. However, this plan was shelved in 2009 and much of this route has been replaced by routing changes to the planned MRT Orange Line . Terminal stations and physical ends of their lines are Khu Khot , Kheha , National Stadium , Bang Wa . Some trains terminate early and resume travel in

9072-453: The platform indicate where the doors will align once the train stops. Although the platforms are constructed to support six-car trains, currently, only four-car trains are operational. For added safety and assistance, security personnel are stationed at every platform and in the ticketing halls. The Skytrain system in Thailand features five key stations – Sala Daeng, Asok, Ha Yaek Lat Phrao, Bang Wa, and Mo Chit – that serve as interchanges with

9180-495: The purple line saw an average of 50385 passengers per day. On 16 October 2023, MRT Purple Line began using the new fare rates of 14 to 20 baht (down from 16 to 42 baht) after the '20 Baht Transit Max Fares Policy' was approved by the Thai government. BTS Skytrain The Bangkok Mass Transit System , commonly known as the BTS Skytrain ( Thai : รถไฟฟ้าบีทีเอส RTGS :  rot fai fa [BTS] ),

9288-625: The river to Wongwian Yai roundabout before continuing south to Chom Thong and ends in Rat Burana District . The 30.4 km long Yellow line has 23 stations. It was originally proposed to be an underground and elevated rapid transit line, but that plan has changed to be built as an elevated monorail line. In December 2011, the MRTA was instructed by the MOT to divide the Yellow Line into two Phases for tender and construction purposes and to control land appropriation costs. In June 2012,

9396-416: The route with actual construction planned to begin from August 2022. Construction began in early August for two contract sections, 3 & 4. Some 410 lots and 500 buildings will need to be appropriated to build the extension and as of May 2022 many of them were still to be surveyed. Construction progress was at 3.45% complete at the end of September 2022. By the end of November 2022, construction progress

9504-463: The stalled train when the driver was told to release the brake even though coupling had not been successful. It was then that the empty train began to roll backwards at a speed of ten metres per second and into the other train, which was carrying passengers. Therefore, it was believed that the incident was caused by negligence due to insufficient training of operation staff. This accident caused damage to both trainsets, with heavily damaged areas limited to

9612-408: The stations via stairs, escalators, and lifts. This level also typically houses supporting utility equipment like generators and water tanks, often situated on traffic islands. The first elevated level houses the ticket booths, small kiosk-style shops, and fare gates. Passengers can reach the second level (or the third level in the case of Siam station ) using stairs, lifts, and escalators. This level

9720-497: The stations, maps are displayed to guide passengers, showing local area details and exit locations. As a safety measure, platform screen doors have been installed at stations. Uniformed security personnel and security cameras are stationed at all platforms to ensure passenger safety. The metro system operates 19 three-car metro trains, specifically of the Siemens Modular Metro type, consisting of two motor cars and

9828-405: The system. All stations are accessible, featuring elevators and ramps to accommodate all passengers. Additionally, stations typically have multiple exits, usually four, with some offering interchanges to other transit systems like the BTS Skytrain , Airport Rail Link , and commuter rail services. The passageways connecting these exits are spacious, with some even evolving into shopping areas. Within

9936-420: The tendering and installation of a new Bombardier open signalling system repeatedly pushed back the schedule. The extension finally opening on 15 May 2009. However, the single platform Saphan Taksin station which has only one track, has caused repeated delays during rush hour. In 2012, the BMA announced plans to demolish Saphan Taksin station in the future. There are now plans to construct new platforms and remove

10044-552: The three BTS lines, Bangkok's rapid transit system includes the underground and elevated Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) lines, the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRT), and the elevated Airport Rail Link (ARL), serving several stations before reaching Suvarnabhumi Airport , and the SRT Red Lines of the State Railway of Thailand . Plans for mass transit in Bangkok began in the early 1980s. An early version of

10152-402: The two cars that collided. From the extent of the damage, investigators estimated the collision speed to be around 60 km/h. However, one train, which was rebuilt from the repair of the minor-damaged cars, was already fitted for operation at the end of 2006 and the remaining one was still under heavy repair until mid of 2007; it was released into service in October 2007. The cost resulting from

10260-590: The upper platforms of Tao Poon station, with a total length of 23 kilometres (14.29 mi), serving 16 stations. Officially named the Chalong Ratchadham Line ( Thai : สายฉลองรัชธรรม ) – "To Celebrate the Great King's Reign with Righteousness" – but informally known as the "Purple Line", the rapid transit line provides a north–western corridor in Bangkok's Mass Rapid Transit Master Plan . The line also incorporated an extension of

10368-569: The west bank, with possible transfers to the Dark Red Line commuter and to Wongwian Yai . It continues south to Chom Thong , then on an elevated structure for 5.5 kilometres (3.4 mi) and ends in Rat Burana District , a short distance to the nearby Phra Pradaeng suburban town in Samut Prakan Province . The total length will be about 23.6 km, including ten underground and seven elevated stations. The Thai Cabinet

10476-472: Was at 4.30%. At the end of February 2023, construction had progressed to 7.73%. By the end of May 2023, construction had progressed to 11.50%. Formerly Phan Fa Formerly Samre Formerly Rama 9 Bridge In November 2013, BEM contracted with Marubeni Corp, Toshiba Corp, and East Japan Railway Company to install E&S systems, supply 21 three-car trains (total of 63 cars) rolling stock, and provide maintenance for 10 years as part of

10584-538: Was expected to approve the Purple Line Southern extension in mid 2017 with a tender due by the 2nd half of 2017. On 25 July 2017, the Cabinet approved the 101 billion baht budget and tender for the extension but the tender was delayed until 2018 due to land acquisition issues. There was a further delay to an early 2019 date as the tender was changed to a PPP tender. However, a subsequent delay in finalising

10692-544: Was finally signed in April 2015 and the full extension was scheduled to open in 2020. Testing of the final 9.8 km, 7 station section from Wat Phra Sri Mahathat (N17) to Khu Khot (N24) began on 5 October and continued until the full extension opens. It was officially inaugurated on 16 December 2020 by the Prime Minister. Opening dates In 2018, it was decided to finally build the missing Saint Louis BTS Station (S4) station (originally named Sueksa Wittaya),

10800-480: Was fully opened on 1 February 2024. The Yellow and Pink Lines are operated by subsidiaries of BTSC , who also operate the BTS Skytrain rather than BEM. Other MRT lines are planned for the future MRT system with the MRT Orange Line and the southern extension of the MRT Purple Line from Tao Poon to Rat Burana are under construction. The MRT Brown Line is also planned. The MRT was constructed under

10908-447: Was in operation between Tao Poon MRT station and Bang Sue MRT station to connect with the Blue Line. When the Blue line extension finally opened a year later, on 11 August 2017, ridership significantly increased. In 2019, daily ridership was 70,000. As the northern section of the Purple line was built first, the 2nd phase of the Purple Line south from Tao Poon via Rattanakosin - Bangkok's old town to Rat Burana would fully complete

11016-499: Was mid-2009. However, an unusual, prolonged delay in the tendering of the contract for the electrical and signals resulted in a two-year delay. "The senior City Hall official responsible for making the purchase has apparently stalled the scheme over fears of being investigated if something went wrong with the purchase." The BTSC was contracted by the BMA to run the extension. Subsequently, the extension did not open until over two years later on 12 August 2011. The delay in opening prompted

11124-412: Was opened on 5 December 1999 by Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn . It initially had lower-than-predicted ridership, with 200,000 passenger trips per day. Ticket revenue was only enough to meet the trains' operating cost, and not sufficient to service construction loans. The Skytrain's daily passenger numbers have steadily increased since then. On 9 December 2005, more than 500,000 single trips were made on

11232-473: Was originally scheduled for the end of 2014. The third contract included construction of four park and ride buildings at the Khlong Bang Phai , Sam Yaek Bang Yai , Bang Rak Noi Tha It , and Yaek Nonthaburi 1 stations. On 31 March 2017, the fifth contract was effectively terminated and became part of a new Blue Line concession agreement. The 2011 Thailand floods delayed the construction of

11340-577: Was raised to 16-41 Baht on 1 January 2009. Daily ridership in 2014 was 253,000. In August 2016, the Purple Line opened for service. In August 2017, the MRT Blue Line was extended to Tao Poon station allowing interchange with the Purple Lines. Bangkok, a city situated on a low-lying plain, is susceptible to flooding. Consequently, the entrances to MRT stations in the city are constructed approximately one meter above ground level and are equipped with integrated floodgates to prevent water from entering

11448-461: Was released for tender on 3 July 2020 as a Public-Private Partnership project. When fully completed, the line will be 35.9-km long, mostly underground, with 29 stations (7 elevated stations for 8.9 km and other 22 underground stations for 27 km). The 22.1 km long Brown line is under study by the OTP. It is proposed to run from Khae Rai, Nonthaburi to Bueng Kum with 20 stations and be

11556-610: Was the Bangkok Elevated Road and Train System (BERTS), which was terminated in 1998 after only 13.77 percent had been completed. Shortly after it became clear that the Lavalin Skytrain had stalled, then- Governor Major General Chamlong Srimuang asked his deputy, Captain Kritsada Arunwong na Ayutthaya , to create a new feeder system with a route along Sukhumvit and Silom Roads . Krisda and his team from

11664-526: Was then delayed until 2018. By December 2018, a tender had still not been issued and was further delayed. In August 2019, subject to final land acquisition, a March 2020 tender was planned. In mid 2020, the Ministry of Transport still aimed for a tendering process within 2020 despite COVID-19 related delays. The MRTA then expected to issue a tender in February 2021. and if construction had begun in 2021,

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