Transport
Bangkok to Phase Out Non-Air-Conditioned Buses by Next Year
The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) plans to replace all remaining non-air-conditioned buses with electric vehicles, with fares starting at 15 baht.
According to a report by Prachachat Business, the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) is preparing to retire its iconic red, non-air-conditioned buses. BMTA Director Kittikan Jomduang Jaruworapholkul announced that the agency is transitioning to a fully air-conditioned fleet, supported by the introduction of 1,520 new electric buses.
For residents and travelers, this shift marks the end of the traditional 8-baht bus fare. The new electric fleet will implement a tiered fare structure ranging from 15 to 25 baht. The agency is currently conducting performance testing on prototype electric vehicles and monitoring the production progress of the first batch of units to ensure a smooth transition.
This modernization effort aims to improve passenger comfort and reduce environmental impact across the capital. While the transition is scheduled for next year, specific details regarding the exact retirement timeline for individual routes and the full deployment schedule for the new electric fleet remain to be confirmed. Commuters should prepare for the upcoming fare adjustments as the city moves toward a standardized, air-conditioned public transport system.