22 May 2009

Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS), the operator of Bangkok’s SkyTrain — a rail based mass transit system, has launched the new 2.2-kilometre extension linking the Saphan Taksin Bridge Station to Krung Thonburi Station and Wong Wian Yai Station on the Thonburi side of Bangkok. Thailand’s Prime Minister, HE Mr Abhisit Vejjajiva, presided over the inauguration ceremony held on Friday May 15, 2009.

This new service links Sathorn Road, one of Bangkok’s prime business districts, to Thonburi on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The extension is the first of its kind across the Chao Phraya River and provides commuters with a welcome alternative to having to drive bumper-to-bumper across the bridge during the rush hour.

The service to and from Krung Thonburi Station and Wong Wian Yai Station operates from 6 am till midnight daily. The Wong Wian Yai station is the last station on the Silom Line.

During this initial three-month period, passengers will be able to travel on the new extension of the BTS free-of-charge from now through to August 12, 2009. Fare collection will start on August 13.

Krung Thonburi Station and Wongwian Yai station in the Khlong San District of Bangkok are both on the Silom Line of the SkyTrain service.

Krung Thonburi Station is located on Krung Thon Buri Road and is surrounded by residences, small shops and office towers. It is the first station of the rapid transit rail system on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River.

Wongwian Yai station is located on Krung Thon Buri Road to the west of Taksin intersection, about 20 minute walk from Wongwian Yai where the statue of King Taksin is situated.

According to BTS sources, between 430,000 to 460,000 commuters currently use the SkyTrain on weekdays and 300,000 a day on weekends. The opening the 2.2-kilometre extension over the Taksin Bridge is expected to boost the estimated number of SkyTrain trips by an additional 50-60,000 trips per day.

Anat Arbhabhirama, adviser to the BTS board of directors, also indicated that BTS is in the process of constructing the 6.7-kilometre extension from Onnuj station to Sukhumvit 107. This is expected to be ready within two years. Another section of 12.8-kms to connect to Bang Pu district in Samut Prakan province has also been planned for a later stage. Additionally, a 4.5-kilometre route from Taksin Bridge to Nong Khaem district is also expected to begin service within two years.

Source: Tourism Authority of Thailand