The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has announced plans to fine the operator of the BTS THB1.8 million (US$54,000) for its disrupted rush hour service this week.
The Monday-Wednesday breakdowns, reportedly caused by a malfunctioning signaling system, forced Bangkokians to opt for alternatives. The numbers offer some quick proof of that. The MRT saw a 17 percent bump in passengers on Monday and Tuesday, while the bus routes that run under the two BTS lines saw a 10.5 percent increase, according to Post Today.
However, a storm of angry Tweets suggested that some people gave up entirely and simply took the morning off work.
READ: 9 ways the BTS should have improved by now
Deputy Bangkok Governor Sakolthee Pattiyakul announced the fine today after speaking with the Bangkok Mass Transit System, the company concessioned to run the BTS. The fine was a result of its failure to be on time at least 97.5 percent of the time this week, he said.
For those keeping track, the BTS has already had 27 serious disruptions this year.
Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith, meanwhile, said he has instructed those involved to come up with a long-term solution. (Ed. note: We’re not holding our breath.)
This morning, the BTS blessedly didn’t report any breakdowns, but some stations such as On Nut and Phra Khanong still suffered from overcrowding, suggestive of delays.
During the worst of the disruptions this week, some stations refunded tickets and fares to passengers who decided not to ride due to the delays, though there’s been no word on any other compensation headed commuters’ way from the BTS.
