BANGKOK, Aug 8 (TNA) – The Transport Minister gave a nod with the proposal to increase taxi fares by 0.50 baht per kilometer for the first 1-10 km. distance after talks with taxi operators.
Transport Minister Saksayam Chidchob and senior officials of the Land Transport Department (LTD) on Wednesday met taxi operators to discuss their demands for the fare and airport surcharge increases.
The ministry received their proposals earlier and ordered the Land Transport Department to look into the details.
After talks, the ministry maintained the base fare at 35 baht, rejecting the proposal to increase the rate to 40 baht.
However, it agreed to increase the fare from 6 baht to 6.50 baht per kilometer for the first 1-10 km. distance but the fare rate remains unchanged for farther trips from the 11th kilometer onward.
The authorities also approved the fare increase for travelling in traffic-congested areas and airport taxi service.
The fare calculation of the taxi meter will be increased from two baht to three baht per kilometer when taxis run less than 6 km. per hour in heavy traffic.
Meanwhile, the airport surcharge for taxi service at Suvarnabhumi Airport will be increase from 50 to 70 baht.
Luggage transportation will have additional charge of 20 baht per luggage for the third luggage from 26 inches and more.
All of the approved fare increases will be put in effect within one month. (TNA)
