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Bangkok Offers a Week of Free Public Transit To Tackle PM2.5

Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced a week of free public transport in Bangkok, starting this Saturday, to tackle the worsening air pollution problem as dust levels soar throughout the capital.

As of this Friday, Bangkok was ranked the fourth most polluted city globally, according to the latest figures from Swiss-based IQAir.

In a statement earlier today, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, who also serves as a deputy prime minister, indicated that the Prime Minister has instructed his ministry and relevant agencies to urgently address the rising levels of particulate matter that are 2.5 micrometers and smaller (PM2.5) in the city.

Mr. Suriya announced that from January 25 to 31, there will be no charge for using buses and electric trains in the city.

He mentioned that arrangements have been made with the operators of the Bangkok Transit System Plc (BTS) and Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company (BEM) to ensure free travel on electric trains.

The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) has confirmed that it will also provide free bus services throughout the week.

To support the transport operators during this period, the government plans to create compensation measures. Mr. Suriya revealed that a central fund of approximately 140 million baht is earmarked for this, awaiting approval from the cabinet.

He is optimistic about receiving full support from all ministers for this initiative.

Additionally, the ministry has established eight checkpoints throughout the capital to monitor vehicle emissions.

These checkpoints are located at key points including Future Park Rangsit, Klong Toey Port, Chatuchak Park, KM 1 on Bang Na Road, Min Buri Waterworks Office on Suwinthawong Road, Bang Khunthian Highway Office on Rama II Road, and along Rangsit-Nakhon Nayok and Boromratchonnanee roads in both directions.

Mr. Suriya expressed his expectation that the use of free transport services will increase by 20% to 30%. He added that if the dust levels do not improve by the end of this initiative, further assessment will be conducted to decide whether to continue offering free transportation.