A modest increase in Bangkok’s bargain taxi fares will go into effect Monday, but drivers won’t be able to charge it until their ride is certified.
The Department of Land Transport is inspecting metered taxis registered in the greater Bangkok area before allowing them to join the 8 percent fare increase, with an emphasis on their air-conditioning systems, tire conditions, seat belts, headlights, indicators and seats, according to a state-media report.
As of this past weekend, more than 36,000 of the 100,000 registered taxis had passed inspection and were awarded a blue certificate label authorizing their meters to be adjusted beginning Monday. Another 5 percent fare increase will come into effect some time in the next six months.
Under the new rate, passengers will be charged THB35 for the first kilometer, then THB5.50 for the second through 10th kilometers, and THB6.50 baht for subsequent kilometers up to the 20th. For just chilling out in paralyzed traffic – or when they move under 6kph, passengers will pay THB2 per minute, an increase of half a baht per minute.
Taxis allowed to use the new fare rate must display a blue label on the left side of the windshield, according to transport official Chirute Visalachitra. He warned passengers to report unauthorized taxis charging the new rate through hotline 1584.
Photo: Amanda W
