Bangkok: The People's Party has declared the House of Representatives' approval of three draft laws related to the electric train system as a joint success. However, they expressed disapproval regarding the government's use of funds from the Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) to support the 20 baht flat-rate electric train project, questioning the indefinite postponement of its implementation.
According to Thai News Agency, the People's Party, led by Mr. Surachet Praveenwongwut, a party-list MP, and Mr. Suphanat Meenchainan, a Bangkok MP, addressed the media following the House of Representatives' approval of the draft Rail Transport Act, the draft Common Ticket Management Act, and the draft Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand Act. These bills are designed to support the government's policy of affordable electric train fares.
Mr. Surachet emphasized that the passage of these bills marks a collective success for the House. Despite this legislative progress, he criticized the government's repeated delays, noting an initial three-month postponement followed by a two-year delay starting October 1st, with further postponements despite efficient parliamentary processes. He highlighted debates over specific sections of the Rail Act and the Common Ticket Act, particularly objecting to sections concerning funding mechanisms from the MRTA.
The People's Party, while supportive of subsidizing public fares and implementing a common ticket system, expressed concern about the incomplete proposals. They have been proactive in contributing to the legislative process, yet remain critical of the government's policy execution, especially the use of MRTA funds.
Mr. Suphanat reiterated the party's stance on supporting a unified ticketing system and emphasized the necessity for government accountability in policy delays. He pointed out that the Common Ticket Committee had completed its deliberations by April, yet the government's meeting on the MRTA Act only occurred in May, indicating a lack of planning and foresight.
The delays and mismanagement have affected the public, with some operators already canceling flat-rate and monthly tickets. Mr. Suphanat hopes for a single ticket system that integrates buses, coaches, and ferries, addressing the current inefficiencies in the transport system.