Bangkok Metro
Encyclopedia
The MRT sometimes referred to as the Bangkok Metro, is Bangkok
's underground metro
system in Thailand
. It was constructed under a concession concept. For the first MRT line, officially known as Chaloem Ratchamongkhon or informally as the "Blue Line", most civil infrastructure were provided by the government sector, Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA), and handed over to their concessionaire under a 25-year concession agreement. Bangkok Metro Company Limited (BMCL) is the only private sector company that won a bid in MRTA's concession contract for the blue line. As MRTA's concessionaire, BMCL provides M&E equipment, including electrical trains, signalling systems, SCADA, communication, PSD, etc. for the subway project and fully operates the system. To maintain the system, BMCL has subcontracted in 10 years to Siemens which was the M&E system supplier since system opening and 7 years maintenance contract to two local maintenance services for north and south line. The MRT line is officially known in Thai as rotfaifa mahanakhon (รถไฟฟ้ามหานคร) or "metropolitan electric train", but it is more commonly called rotfai taidin (รถไฟใต้ดิน), literally, "underground train". The metro has a fleet of 19 trains; the 19th train entered service in October, 2007 after a major accident.
Besides the MRT, Bangkok also has the elevated rail system BTS or informally the Skytrain, and the elevated
Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (SARL), serving several stations in the city before reaching the airport.
The construction of the first Bangkok Metro line, officially known as Chaloem Ratchamongkhon (Thai สายเฉลิมรัชมงคล) – "Celebration of Royal Auspice" – or informally as the "Blue Line", began on 19 November 1996. The project suffered multiple delays not only because of the 1997 economic crisis, but also due to challenging civil engineering works of constructing massive underground structures deep in the water-logged soil upon which the city is built.
The Blue Line was opened for a limited public trial period of several weeks starting on 13 April 2004. On 3 July 2004 the line was officially opened at 19:19 local time by HM King Bhumibol
and Queen Sirikit
, who were accompanied by other members of the royal family. Within 30 minutes of its opening, sightseers filled the system to its maximum capacity, but after the initial rush ridership has settled down to around 180,000 riders daily — considerably lower than projections of over 400,000, despite fares being slashed in half from 12-38 baht to 10-15 baht per trip. From 2006 until 2008, fares ranged between 14-36 baht per trip. The fare was raised to 16-41 Baht on 1 January 2009.
The 21-kilometer, 18-station Blue line presently runs from Bang Sue
to Hua Lamphong via Phra Ram 9 and has a carrying capacity of 40,000 people in each direction per hour. Similar to the Skytrain, the Metro uses trains supplied by Siemens
which travel up to 80 km/h. Passengers can conveniently connect to the Skytrain at Si Lom
, Sukhumvit
and Chatuchak Park stations. The metro has a large depot in Huai Khwang district, which is located between Phra Ram 9 and Thailand Cultural Centre stations.
Considering that Bangkok is a low-lying plain which is prone to flooding, all of the Metro's station entrances are raised about one metre above the ground level and are equipped with built-in floodgates in order to avoid water inundating the system. Lifts and ramps are found at all stations, providing easy access for passengers in wheelchairs. Stations have multiple passage ways (generally four) which allow passengers to connect to any corner of the adjacent surface intersection. Passageways between exits are very spacious and some are beginning to open as malls. Maps depicting the local area and exit points are posted on the walls on the way out.
Due to safety considerations, platform screen doors
are installed. Uniformed security personnel and security cameras are present at each and every platform. Currently 19 three-car metro trains, of the Siemens Modular Metro
type, are used. Each metro train consists of two motor cars and a centre trailer car.
There are one, three and thirty day cards. All are for unlimited travel and for that time only from first use. One day costs 100 baht, three day costs 280 baht and thirty days costs 1200 baht. At 40 baht per day, even when you do not need to use it, the thirty day pass is not very good value so most Thai people still pay per journey.
Extension of the blue line can be summarised as follows:
Other expansion plans for the metro include:
[Note] that these plans do not include the extension proposed for the Skytrain
, SRT Lines and airport link which is under the control of BMA and State Railway Thailand. BMCL itself expects to be the operator for the extension project and other lines but the final decision is still dependent on MRTA (government sector).
As per the BMCL's annual report, earning of profit from operation is still far away and BMCL is still subsidized by main share holder which is CH Karnchange. An accumulated deficit from now is estimated between 1,000 and 1,500 Million baht. Nevertheless, the deficit is partially mitigated by initial public offering and the earning per share is still giving with no hope to public share holder from now.
On 17 January 2005, just after 09:15, an empty train returning to the depot collided with a peak-hour train filled with passengers at the Thailand Cultural Centre
station. 140 people were hurt, most of whom sustained only minor injuries, and the entire Metro network was shut down for two weeks.
After initial investigations, it was found that the empty train had run into problems shortly before the accident, grinding to a halt on a curve leading to the depot. The driver applied its brake and was waiting to be towed to the maintenance centre close to Thailand Cultural Centre station.
A rescue train was attempting to connect to the stalled train when the driver was told to release the brake while coupling had not yet been successful. It was then that the empty train began to roll backwards at a speed of ten metres per second, before smashing into the other train, which was carrying passengers. Therefore, it was believed that the incident was caused by negligence due to insufficient training of operation staff. This accident also resulted in two damaged trains with heavily damaged areas limited to the two leading cars. The colliding speed was suspected to be about 60 km/h due to the appearance of damaged areas. However, one train, which was rebuilt from the repair of the minor-damaged cars, was already fitted for operation at the end of 2006 and the remaining one was still under heavy repair until mid of 2007; it was released into service in October, 2007. The cost resulting from the accident might be a much higher figure than BMCL quoted, and it was expected to be at least 400 million baht, which was totally insured by a local insurance company.
The Metro resumed full operation on 1 February 2005, and passenger numbers soon rose back to pre-crash levels, partly due to a temporary promotional fare scheme which allowed passengers to travel any distance on the MRT for only ten baht (~0.33 USD).
Bangkok
Bangkok is the capital and largest urban area city in Thailand. It is known in Thai as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon or simply Krung Thep , meaning "city of angels." The full name of Bangkok is Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahintharayutthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom...
's underground metro
Rapid transit
A rapid transit, underground, subway, elevated railway, metro or metropolitan railway system is an electric passenger railway in an urban area with a high capacity and frequency, and grade separation from other traffic. Rapid transit systems are typically located either in underground tunnels or on...
system in Thailand
Thailand
Thailand , officially the Kingdom of Thailand , formerly known as Siam , is a country located at the centre of the Indochina peninsula and Southeast Asia. It is bordered to the north by Burma and Laos, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia, and to the...
. It was constructed under a concession concept. For the first MRT line, officially known as Chaloem Ratchamongkhon or informally as the "Blue Line", most civil infrastructure were provided by the government sector, Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA), and handed over to their concessionaire under a 25-year concession agreement. Bangkok Metro Company Limited (BMCL) is the only private sector company that won a bid in MRTA's concession contract for the blue line. As MRTA's concessionaire, BMCL provides M&E equipment, including electrical trains, signalling systems, SCADA, communication, PSD, etc. for the subway project and fully operates the system. To maintain the system, BMCL has subcontracted in 10 years to Siemens which was the M&E system supplier since system opening and 7 years maintenance contract to two local maintenance services for north and south line. The MRT line is officially known in Thai as rotfaifa mahanakhon (รถไฟฟ้ามหานคร) or "metropolitan electric train", but it is more commonly called rotfai taidin (รถไฟใต้ดิน), literally, "underground train". The metro has a fleet of 19 trains; the 19th train entered service in October, 2007 after a major accident.
Besides the MRT, Bangkok also has the elevated rail system BTS or informally the Skytrain, and the elevated
Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (SARL), serving several stations in the city before reaching the airport.
History
The Blue Line was opened for a limited public trial period of several weeks starting on 13 April 2004. On 3 July 2004 the line was officially opened at 19:19 local time by HM King Bhumibol
Bhumibol Adulyadej
Bhumibol Adulyadej is the current King of Thailand. He is known as Rama IX...
and Queen Sirikit
Sirikit
Somdet Phra Nang Chao Sirikit Phra Borommarachininat , is the queen consort of Bhumibol Adulyadej, King of Thailand. She is the second Queen Regent of Thailand...
, who were accompanied by other members of the royal family. Within 30 minutes of its opening, sightseers filled the system to its maximum capacity, but after the initial rush ridership has settled down to around 180,000 riders daily — considerably lower than projections of over 400,000, despite fares being slashed in half from 12-38 baht to 10-15 baht per trip. From 2006 until 2008, fares ranged between 14-36 baht per trip. The fare was raised to 16-41 Baht on 1 January 2009.
Operation
Bang Sue
Bang Sue is one of the 50 districts of Bangkok, Thailand. Its neighbor, clockwise from east, are Chatuchak, Dusit and Bang Phlat, and Bang Kruai and Mueang Nonthaburi .-Places:...
to Hua Lamphong via Phra Ram 9 and has a carrying capacity of 40,000 people in each direction per hour. Similar to the Skytrain, the Metro uses trains supplied by Siemens
Siemens AG
Siemens AG is a German multinational conglomerate company headquartered in Munich, Germany. It is the largest Europe-based electronics and electrical engineering company....
which travel up to 80 km/h. Passengers can conveniently connect to the Skytrain at Si Lom
Si Lom Station
Si Lom Station is the underground station of Bangkok Metro. This station located between Rama IV Road and Si Lom Road, the Bangkok CBD.- Station Map :-Station Levels:Si Lom station have 4 levels including* 1 Concourse Level...
, Sukhumvit
Sukhumvit Station
Sukhumvit Station located on Asok Intersection between Sukhumvit Road and Asokmontri Road.- Station Map :-Exits:* 1 Siam Society, and Asok Montri Road* 2 Interchange Building* 3 Asok Market, Robinson, and escalators to Asok Station...
and Chatuchak Park stations. The metro has a large depot in Huai Khwang district, which is located between Phra Ram 9 and Thailand Cultural Centre stations.
Considering that Bangkok is a low-lying plain which is prone to flooding, all of the Metro's station entrances are raised about one metre above the ground level and are equipped with built-in floodgates in order to avoid water inundating the system. Lifts and ramps are found at all stations, providing easy access for passengers in wheelchairs. Stations have multiple passage ways (generally four) which allow passengers to connect to any corner of the adjacent surface intersection. Passageways between exits are very spacious and some are beginning to open as malls. Maps depicting the local area and exit points are posted on the walls on the way out.
Due to safety considerations, platform screen doors
Platform screen doors
Platform screen doors and platform edge doors at train or subway stations screen the platform from the train. They are a relatively new addition to many metro systems around the world, with some platform doors retrofitted rather than installed with the metro system itself. They are widely used in...
are installed. Uniformed security personnel and security cameras are present at each and every platform. Currently 19 three-car metro trains, of the Siemens Modular Metro
Siemens Modular Metro
The Siemens Modular Metro is a family of electric multiple unit trains for rapid transit systems produced by Siemens Transportation Systems and used by rail operators around the world. The vehicle concept was launched in Vienna in 2000 and is a modular concept allowing many variants of metro vehicles...
type, are used. Each metro train consists of two motor cars and a centre trailer car.
Ticketing
The ticketing system uses RFID contactless technology with round black tokens issued for single trips and contactless stored value cards for frequent travellers. In the near future, a joint ticketing system will be set up so that passengers can use a single ticket on the Metro as well as on the Skytrain. Multi-storey park & ride facilities are provided at Lat Phrao and Thailand Cultural Centre. Motorists who park their cars at these premises will be issued with additional contactless smartcards and they need to have them electronically stamped at their destination station. The turnstiles accept cards or paid for tokens, both available from from a booth or ticket machines, which do take notes. All luggage must be lifted above them when going through otherwise they sense the luggage going first as the paid for passenger and then the person carrying it is blocked.There are one, three and thirty day cards. All are for unlimited travel and for that time only from first use. One day costs 100 baht, three day costs 280 baht and thirty days costs 1200 baht. At 40 baht per day, even when you do not need to use it, the thirty day pass is not very good value so most Thai people still pay per journey.
Blue Line
In the table below, an italicized name indicates that the station is under construction and not yet in operation.| Code | Station Name | Transfer | coordinates |
| Blue Line | |||
| Bang Sue-Tha Phra Extension (under construction) | |||
| Tha Phra (under construction) | Terminal/Interchange |
||
| Charan Sanit Wong 13(under construction) | For Charansanitwong 13 neighbourhood, Thonburi Commercial Collage | ||
| Yaek Fai Chai (under construction) | For Bang Khun Si market, Nakhon Luang market, Phran Nok area | ||
| Bang Khun Non(under construction) |  BMTA bus/taxi link to Taling Chan floating market, Southern Bus Terminal (Taling Chan) |
||
| Bang Yi Khan (under construction) | BMTA bus/taxi link to Southern Bus Terminal (Taling Chan), CentralPlaza Pinklao |
||
| Sirindhorn (under construction) |  For Krung Thon BridgeKrung Thon Bridge Krung Thon Bridge is a bridge over the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, in Thailand, connecting the districts Dusit and Bang Phlat. The bridge has 6 spans, and consists of a steel superstructure resting on concrete piers.-History:... area |
||
| Bang Phlat (under construction) | For Bang Phlat District office | ||
| Bang O (under construction) | For Yanhee International Hospital | ||
| Bang Pho (under construction) |  Chao Phraya Express BoatChao Phraya Express Boat The Chao Phraya Express Boat is a transportation service in Thailand that operates on the Chao Phraya River. It provides riverine express transportation between stops in the capital city of Bangkok and to Nonthaburi, the province immediately to the north. Established in 1971, the Chao Phraya... : Bang Pho Pier |
||
| Tao Pun (under construction) | |
||
| Hua Lamphong-Bang Sue | |||
| 18BAN | Bang Sue | Current terminal : Bang Sue Junction : Bang Sue Junction Transfer State Railway of Thailand State Railway of Thailand The State Railway of Thailand is the state-owned rail operator in Thailand. The network sees around 50 million passengers per annum.-History:SRT was founded as the Royal State Railways of Siam in 1890... Southern, Northern and Northeastern Lines (inter-city rail Inter-city rail Inter-city rail services are express passenger train services that cover longer distances than commuter or regional trains.There is no precise definition of inter-city rail. Its meaning may vary from country to country... s) : Bang Sue Junction |
13°48′8.75"N 100°32′27.36"E |
| 17KAM | Kamphaeng Phet | For Chatuchak Weekend Market Chatuchak weekend market Chatuchak weekend market in Bangkok is the largest market in Thailand. Frequently called J.J., it covers over 35 acres and contains upwards of 5,000 stalls. It is estimated that the market receives 200,000 visitors each day. Most stalls only open on Saturdays and Sundays though Jatujak Plaza,... and the market of Marketing Organization for Farmers (MOF market/Or Tor Kor market) |
13°47′51.83"N 100°32′54.07"E |
| 16CHA | Chatuchak Park | : with outdoor Park & Ride lot BMTA bus/taxi link to Northern and Northeastern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2), Don Mueang and Rangsit suburbs For Chatuchak Park Chatuchak Park Chatuchak Park is the name of a public park in Chatuchak district, Bangkok, Thailand. It is also the name of the Bangkok Metro station that lies under the park.... , Chatuchak Weekend Market Chatuchak weekend market Chatuchak weekend market in Bangkok is the largest market in Thailand. Frequently called J.J., it covers over 35 acres and contains upwards of 5,000 stalls. It is estimated that the market receives 200,000 visitors each day. Most stalls only open on Saturdays and Sundays though Jatujak Plaza,... |
13°48′9.85"N 100°33′13.21"E |
| 15PHA | Phahon Yothin | : For CentralPlaza Lardprao, Sofitel Centara Grand Hotel Sofitel Centara Grand Hotel Sofitel Centara Grand is a hotel in Bangkok, Thailand adjacent to Central Plaza Lat Phrao. It is run since 2001 by Accor Hotels. It was first opened in 1982 with 607 rooms as Hyatt Hotel and later managed by the new founded hotel management group, Central Hotel & Resorts, rebranded to Centara... , International Civil Aviation Organization International Civil Aviation Organization The International Civil Aviation Organization , pronounced , , is a specialized agency of the United Nations. It codifies the principles and techniques of international air navigation and fosters the planning and development of international air transport to ensure safe and orderly growth... Thailand , Thai Airways International Thai Airways International Thai Airways International Public Company Limited is the national flag carrier and largest airline of Thailand. Formed in 1988, the airline's headquarters are located in Chatuchak District, Bangkok, and operates out of Suvarnabhumi Airport. Thai is a founding member of the Star Alliance. Thai is a... , Union Mall Union Mall Union Mall is a shopping mall located in the north of Bangkok, at the Lat Phrao junction.The mall opened on February 2006. It has 8 floors with a total of 150 000 square meters of space.... and PTT Public Company Limited PTT Public Company Limited PTT Public Company Limited, PTT PCL, or simply PTT is a Thai state-owned SET-listed oil and gas company. Formerly known as the Petroleum Authority of Thailand, it owns extensive submarine gas pipelines in the Gulf of Thailand, a network of LPG terminals throughout the Kingdom, and is involved in... BMTA bus/taxi link to Kasetsart UniversityKasetsart University Kasetsart University is a public university in Thailand and a top-ranked Public University in Thailand. It is ranked No.401-500 in the world by QS. It was also the first agricultural university and the third oldest university in Thailand... , Meyo hospital Meyo Hospital Meyo Hospital is a private hospital located on Phahonyothin Road in Chatuchak district in Bangkok, Thailand. It is not related to the Mayo Clinic.-External links:... , Saphan Mai market, northern suburbs of Bang Khen and Sai Mai |
13°48′46.25"N 100°33′41.22"E |
| 14LAT | Lat Phrao | BMTA bus/taxi link to the Department of Export Promotion Ministry of Commerce (Thailand) Ministry of Commerce (Thailand) The Ministry of Commerce of the Kingdom of Thailand is a Cabinet ministry in the Government of Thailand. The head of the ministry is called the Minister of Commerce, he is a member of the Cabinet of Thailand... , Chandrakasem Rajabhat University Chandrakasem Rajabhat University Chandrakasem Rajabhat University is a tertiary educational institution in the north of Bangkok, Thailand. It offers a post-diploma certificate and degree level education from the bachelor's degree to master's degree, with a Ph.D offered in several majors.... , Elephant Building Elephant Building The Elephant Building or Chang Building is a high-rise building located on Paholyothin Road & Ratchadaphisek Road in Bangkok, Thailand.It lies in the North Bangkok Business District and Chatuchak district.... , Major Cineplex Ratchayothin Major Cineplex Ratchayothin Major Cineplex Ratchayothin is an entertainment and shopping complex on Phahonyothin Road in Lat Yao subdistrict, Chatuchak district, Bangkok. Operated by Thailand's largest movie-theater chain, Major Cineplex, it has a 14-screen multiplex cinema, a 38-lane bowling alley, karaoke rooms,... SCB Park Plaza SCB Park Plaza SCB Park Plaza or Siam Commercial Bank Park Plaza is a high-rise building complex located on Ratchadaphisek Road in Chatuchak district Bangkok, Thailand.There are 4 buildings:* SCB Park Plaza 1 * SCB Park Plaza 2... , Criminal Court , Appeal Court , Civil Court , The Bangkok North Municipal Court, residental area along Lat Phrao Road |
13°48′23.21"N 100°34′22.54"E |
| 13RAT | Ratchadaphisek | For Soi Choke Chai Ruam Mit, Olympia Thai Tower, The Travellers Hotel, Chaophaya Park Hotel, near Khlong Bang Sue | 13°47′56.58"N 100°34′28.37"E |
| 12SUT | Sutthisan | For Muang Thai Patra Complex, Muang Thai Patra market, Golden Years Hospital, Sutthisan Police Station | 13°47′24.12"N 100°34′27.02"E |
| 11HUI | Huai Khwang | For Swissôtel Swissôtel Swissôtel Hotels and Resorts is a group of hotels pitched at the higher end of the hotel market. The chain currently includes 28 properties in 15 countries.... Le Concorde, The Emarald Hotal, Huai Khwang market |
13°46′43.13"N 100°34′26.64"E |
| 10CUL | Thailand Cultural Centre | with Park & Ride facility For Embassy of The People's Republic of China in Thailand , Big C Extra Ratchadapisek and Robinson Robinson Department Store Robinson Department Store is a Thai department store chain. It was established in 1979 and was merged with Central Group in 1995... department stores, as well as the Esplanade Cineplex The Esplanade (Bangkok) The Esplanade is a shopping and entertainment complex on Ratchadaphisek Road in Din Daeng district, Bangkok, with a second branch on Rattanathibet Road in Nonthaburi.-History:Anchored by the Esplanade Cineplex, the shopping mall opened in December 2006... About 20-minute walk (or taxi) to the performing-arts venue at Thailand Cultural Centre Thailand Cultural Centre Thailand Cultural Centre is a performing-arts venue in Bangkok, Thailand.-History:Built with a grant from Japan, the Thailand Cultural Centre opened on October 9, 1987 as part of celebrations for King Bhumibol's 60th birthday.-Facilities:The venue consists of two auditoriums and one... , Siam Niramit Theatre |
13°45′58.11"N 100°34′12.75"E |
| 9RAM | Phra Ram 9 | For Fortune Town shopping center including a large Tesco Lotus Tesco Lotus thumb|right|200px|Tesco Lotus Hypermarket, Lat Phrao Branch]]Tesco Lotus is a hypermarket chain in Thailand, Cambodia and China . In Thailand, the stores are operated by Ek-Chai Distribution System Co., Ltd.... store and IT mall, CentralPlaza Rama IX, at Phra Ram 9 intersection |
13°45′26.57"N 100°33′54.56"E |
| 8PET | Phetchaburi | : Khlong Saen Saep Express Boat Khlong Saen Saep Express Boat The Khlong Saen Saep Express Boat service operates on the Khlong Saen Saep in Bangkok, providing fast, inexpensive transportation through the city's traffic-congested commercial districts... : Asok Pier For Srinakharinwirot University Srinakharinwirot University Srinakharinwirot University is a government sponsored university located in Bangkok, Thailand. The university was founded in 1949. It was named by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and is the leading Thai university in the field of Education and Fine Arts... , Don Bosco School, Saint Dominic School, Rutnin Eye Hospital, Islamic Bank of Thailand |
13°44′56.90"N 100°33′48.20"E |
| 7SUK | Sukhumvit Sukhumvit Station Sukhumvit Station located on Asok Intersection between Sukhumvit Road and Asokmontri Road.- Station Map :-Exits:* 1 Siam Society, and Asok Montri Road* 2 Interchange Building* 3 Asok Market, Robinson, and escalators to Asok Station... |
: For Siam Society, Asok and Sukhumvit Sukhumvit Road Sukhumvit Road , or Thailand Route 3 , is a major road in Thailand, and a major surface road of Bangkok and other cities it winds through. It follows a coastal route from Bangkok to Trat and is just over in length.... business area |
13°44′15.36"N 100°33′40.91"E |
| 6SIR | Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre | For the Stock Exchange of Thailand Stock Exchange of Thailand The Stock Exchange of Thailand is the national stock exchange of Thailand. It is located in Bangkok. As of 31 December 2007, the Stock Exchange of Thailand had 541 listed companies with a combined market capitalization of $280 billion. The indices of the stock exchange are SET Index, SET50 Index... , QSNCC Queen Sirikit National Convention Center The Queen Sirikit National Convention Center is a convention and exhibition hall in Bangkok, Thailand.-Facilities and location:... and Khlong Toei Market |
13°43′23.04"N 100°33′36.36"E |
| 5KHO | Khlong Toei | For Plai Nern Palace and Bon Kai market | 13°43′20.57"N 100°33′14.26"E |
| 4LUM | Lumphini | For Suan Lum Night Bazaar Suan Lum Night Bazaar Suan Lum Night Bazaar was a market in Bangkok's Pathum Wan district, at the intersection of Rama IV and Wireless/Sathorn Roads, opposite Lumphini Park at the Bangkok Metro's Lumphini Station. Located on land owned by the Crown Property Bureau. It opened in 2001, and had closed by early 2011.The... , Lumpinee Boxing Stadium Lumpinee Boxing Stadium Lumpinee Boxing Stadium is an indoor sporting arena located in Bangkok, Thailand. Opened more than a decade later than Rajadamnern Stadium, the Lumpinee is run by Royal Thai Army on behalf of Thai Government. It has become the symbol of modern Muay Thai. Only Rajadamnern Stadium rivals the... and Lumphini Park Lumphini Park Lumphini Park is a 360-rai park in Bangkok, Thailand. This park offers rare open public space, trees and playgrounds in the Thai capital and contains an artificial lake where visitors can rent a variety of boats. Paths around the park totalling approximately 2.5 km in length are a popular... ; Dropping point to Sathon Sathon Road Sathon Road is a major road that passes through Sathon district in central Bangkok, Thailand. It is an important transportation link between Phra Nakhon and Thonburi sides of Bangkok.... and Wireless Road |
13°43′32.07"N 100°32′45.10"E |
| 3SIL | Si Lom Si Lom Station Si Lom Station is the underground station of Bangkok Metro. This station located between Rama IV Road and Si Lom Road, the Bangkok CBD.- Station Map :-Station Levels:Si Lom station have 4 levels including* 1 Concourse Level... |
: For Lumphini Park Lumphini Park Lumphini Park is a 360-rai park in Bangkok, Thailand. This park offers rare open public space, trees and playgrounds in the Thai capital and contains an artificial lake where visitors can rent a variety of boats. Paths around the park totalling approximately 2.5 km in length are a popular... , Chulalongkorn Hospital King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital is a general and tertiary referral hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. It is operated by the Thai Red Cross Society, and serves as the teaching hospital for the Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and the Thai Red Cross College of Nursing... , Si Lom Si Lom Si Lom is a sub-District and road in Bang Rak district, Bangkok, Thailand. Constructed in 1851 as part of a dyke and irrigation system, Silom road has become one of Bangkok's most cosmopolitan streets and major financial center; it is the home to some of the largest companies in Thailand ex... business area and Patpong Patpong Patpong is an entertainment district in Bangkok, Thailand, catering mainly, though not exclusively, to foreign tourists and expatriates. While Patpong is internationally known as a red light district at the heart of Bangkok's sex industry, it is in fact only one of numerous red-light districts... night market |
13°43′45.44"N 100°32′15.21"E |
| 2SAM | Sam Yan Sam Yan Station (Bangkok Metro) Sam Yan Station is a Bangkok MRT Blue Line rapid transit station in Thailand, located underground between Sam Yan intersection on Rama IV Road near Chulalongkorn University.-Station Map:- Exits:* 1 Wat Hua Lamphong, Si Phraya Road, Surawong Road.... |
For Chulalongkorn University Chulalongkorn University Chulalongkorn University is the oldest university in Thailand and is the country's highest ranked university. It now has nineteen faculties and institutes. Regarded as the best and most selective university in Thailand, it consistently attracts top students from around the country... , Chamchuri Square Chamchuri Square Chamchuri Square is a high-rise building complex located in Bangkok, Thailand. It consists of a commercial office tower, a residential tower and a podium housing a shopping mall which connects the two. Owned by Chulalongkorn University, construction on the complex began in 1994 but was halted from... , Snake Farm Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute in Bangkok, Thailand, is a famous institute that specialises in the husbandry of venomous snakes, the extraction and research of snake venom... of the Thai Red Cross Society Thai Red Cross Society The Thai Red Cross Society is the major humanitarian organisation in Thailand, providing services as part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement... , Wat Hua Lamphong Wat Hua Lamphong Wat Hua Lamphong is a Royal Buddhist temple, third class, in the Bang Rak District of Bangkok, Thailand.It is located on Rama IV Road, with Si Lom Road and Suriwong Road in Bangkok's modern business district to the southeast, and Si Phraya Road to the northwest. It is a block from The Montien... |
13°43′55.49"N 100°31′50.76"E |
| 1HUA | Hua Lamphong | Current terminal : Hua Lamphong Railway Station Transfer State Railway of Thailand State Railway of Thailand The State Railway of Thailand is the state-owned rail operator in Thailand. The network sees around 50 million passengers per annum.-History:SRT was founded as the Royal State Railways of Siam in 1890... Southern, Eastern, Northern and Northeastern Lines (inter-city rail Inter-city rail Inter-city rail services are express passenger train services that cover longer distances than commuter or regional trains.There is no precise definition of inter-city rail. Its meaning may vary from country to country... s) : Hua Lamphong Railway Station Chao Phraya Express BoatChao Phraya Express Boat The Chao Phraya Express Boat is a transportation service in Thailand that operates on the Chao Phraya River. It provides riverine express transportation between stops in the capital city of Bangkok and to Nonthaburi, the province immediately to the north. Established in 1971, the Chao Phraya... : Marine Department Pier (780 m from the station) For Yaowarat Road Yaowarat Road Bangkok's Chinatown is centered on Yaowarat Road in Samphanthawong district.The Chinatown is an old business center covering a large area around Yaowarat and Charoen Krung Road. There are many small streets and alleys full of shops and vendors selling all types of goods... (Chinatown), Golden Buddha, Wat Traimit |
13°44′14.17"N 100°31′4.05"E |
| Hua Lamphong-Bang Khae Extension (under construction) | |||
| Wat Mangkon (under construction) | For Yaowarat Road Yaowarat Road Bangkok's Chinatown is centered on Yaowarat Road in Samphanthawong district.The Chinatown is an old business center covering a large area around Yaowarat and Charoen Krung Road. There are many small streets and alleys full of shops and vendors selling all types of goods... (Bangkok's Chinatown Chinatown A Chinatown is an ethnic enclave of overseas Chinese people, although it is often generalized to include various Southeast Asian people. Chinatowns exist throughout the world, including East Asia, Southeast Asia, the Americas, Australasia, and Europe. Binondo's Chinatown located in Manila,... ), Wat Mangkon Kamalawat Wat Mangkon Kamalawat Wat Mangkon Kamalawat , previously known as Wat Leng Noei Yi , is the largest and most important Chinese Buddhist temple in Bangkok, Thailand... |
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| Wang Burapha (under construction) | For old quarter of Wang Burapha and Phahurat Phahurat Phahurat or Pahurat , often known as Thailand's Little India, is an ethnic neighborhood surrounding Phahurat Road in Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok. The area that would become Phahurat was an enclave of Vietnamese immigrants who came to Siam during the reign of King Taksin... shopping sites |
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| Sanam Chai (under construction) | For Pak Khlong Talat Pak Khlong Talat Pak Khlong Talat is a market in Bangkok, Thailand that sells flowers, fruits, and vegetables. It is the primary flower market in Bangkok and has been cited as a "place[] of symbolic values" to Bangkok residents. It is located on Chak Phet Road and adjacent side-streets, close to Memorial Bridge... flower market, Memorial Bridge Memorial Bridge, Bangkok The Memorial Bridge is a bridge over the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, in Thailand, connecting the districts Phra Nakhon and Thonburi.The bridge was opened on 6 April 1932, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Chakri Dynasty... (Saphan Phut night market), Wat Pho Wat Pho Wat Pho , is a Buddhist temple in Phra Nakhon district, Bangkok, Thailand. It is located in the Rattanakosin district directly adjacent to the Grand Palace. Known also as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, its official name is Wat Phra Chettuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Ratchaworamahawihan... , Wat Phra Kaew Wat Phra Kaew The Wat Phra Kaew is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. It is a "potent religio-political symbol and the palladium of Thai society". It is located in the historic centre of Bangkok , within the precincts of the Grand Palace.The main building is the central ubosoth, which... , and Museum Siam (National Discovery Museum) |
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| Itsaraphap (under construction) | For Wat Arun Wat Arun Wat Arun Rajwararam is a Buddhist temple in the Bangkok Yai district of Bangkok, Thailand, on the Thonburi west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The full name of the temple is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahawihan... and Bangkok Yai Bangkok Yai Bangkok Yai is one of the 50 districts of Bangkok, Thailand. Neighboring districts are Bangkok Noi, Phra Nakhon , Thon Buri, Phasi Charoen, and Taling Chan.-History:... neighbourhood |
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| Tha Phra (under construction) | Interchange For Tha Phra intersection neighbourhood, Wat Tha Phra, Bangkok Yai District office |
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| Bang Phai (under construction) | For Bang Phai neighbourhood | ||
| Bang Wa (under construction) | : For Siam University Siam University Siam University is a university located on Petkasem Road in Phasicharoen district of Bangkok. Siam University was founded by the late Narong Mongkhonvanit as a three-year private engineering school in 1965.... |
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| Phetchakasem 48 (under construction) | |||
| Phasi Charoen (under construction) | For Seacon Square Bangkae Seacon Square Bangkae Seacon Square Bangkae is a shopping mall currently under reconstruction and renovation in Bangkok, Thailand.Seacon Development Co, the developer of Seacon Square on Srinakarin Road, is spending 2.5 billion baht to take over the non-performing Future Park Bangkae, it will be closed for renovation... shopping mall |
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| Bang Khae (under construction) | For Bang Khae market | ||
| Lak Song (under construction) | Terminal at Kanchanaphisek Outer Ring Road with park & ride facilities BMTA bus/taxi link to Nong Khaem western suburb and Nakhon Pathom Province Nakhon Pathom Province Nakhon Pathom ) is one of the central provinces of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are Suphan Buri, Ayutthaya, Nonthaburi, Bangkok, Samut Sakhon, Ratchaburi and Kanchanaburi... For The Mall Shopping Center Bangkae |
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Expansion plans
Various expansion plans of the Metro have been proposed. , the MRT Purple Line and the two extension lines of the blue line are also under construction. It is planned that, eventually, the combined route distance of the Metro alone will total 91 km with 3 Metro lines covering all of the major areas of Bangkok. The Blue line, once completely extended, will form a lariat-shaped loop encircling the city.Extension of the blue line can be summarised as follows:
- Blue Line extension:
- Bang SueBang SueBang Sue is one of the 50 districts of Bangkok, Thailand. Its neighbor, clockwise from east, are Chatuchak, Dusit and Bang Phlat, and Bang Kruai and Mueang Nonthaburi .-Places:...
– Bang PhlatBang PhlatBang Phlat is one of the 50 districts of Bangkok, Thailand. Its neighbor, clockwise from north, are Amphoe Bang Kruai of Nonthaburi Province, Bang Sue, Dusit, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok Noi, and Taling Chan districts of Bangkok.-History:...
– Tha Phra (13 km) (under construction operational in 2015) - Hua LamphongHua LamphongHua Lamphong Railway Station , officially known as the Bangkok Railway Station, is the main railway station in Bangkok, Thailand. It is located in the center of the city in Pathum Wan District, and is operated by the State Railway of Thailand....
– Tha Phra – Bang KhaeBang KhaeBang Khae is one of the 50 districts of Bangkok, Thailand. The district is bounded by other Bangkok districts : Thawi Watthana, Taling Chan, Phasi Charoen, Bang Bon, and Nong Khaem...
(14 km) (under construction operational in 2015)
- Purple LineBangkok Metro Purple LineThe MRT Purple Line is a rapid transit line under construction of Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand in the Bangkok Metropolitan Area, Thailand, including Nonthaburi Province....
: Bang Yai – Sam Sen – Rat BuranaRat BuranaRat Burana is one of the 50 districts of Bangkok, Thailand. The district is bounded by Amphoe Phra Pradaeng of Samut Prakan Province, Thung Khru, Chom Thong and Thon Buri districts of Bangkok while its north to east is Chao Phraya River with Bang Kho Laem and Yan Nawa districts across the...
(40 km)
- Bang SueBang SueBang Sue is one of the 50 districts of Bangkok, Thailand. Its neighbor, clockwise from east, are Chatuchak, Dusit and Bang Phlat, and Bang Kruai and Mueang Nonthaburi .-Places:...
- Bang Yai northern section (under construction operational in 2013). - Bang SueBang SueBang Sue is one of the 50 districts of Bangkok, Thailand. Its neighbor, clockwise from east, are Chatuchak, Dusit and Bang Phlat, and Bang Kruai and Mueang Nonthaburi .-Places:...
- Kiak Kai extension (serving the new parliament complex; planned). - Kiak Kai - Wang Burapha section (underground; planned).
- Wang Burapha - Rat BuranaRat BuranaRat Burana is one of the 50 districts of Bangkok, Thailand. The district is bounded by Amphoe Phra Pradaeng of Samut Prakan Province, Thung Khru, Chom Thong and Thon Buri districts of Bangkok while its north to east is Chao Phraya River with Bang Kho Laem and Yan Nawa districts across the...
southern section (underground / elevated; planned).
- Orange LineBangkok Metro Orange LineThe MRT Orange Line is one of planned rapid transit lines of the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand in the Bangkok Metropolitan Area, Thailand....
: Bang KapiBang KapiBang Kapi is one of the 50 districts of Bangkok, Thailand. It is bounded by other Bangkok districts : Bueng Kum, Saphan Sung, Prawet, Suan Luang, Huai Khwang, Wang Thonglang, and Lat Phrao.-History:...
– Dindaeng – Taling Chan (37.5 km, Change from Bang Kapi – Sam Sen – Bang Bamru)
Other expansion plans for the metro include:
- Yellow LineBangkok Metro Yellow LineThe MRT Yellow line is a planned mass rapid transit line to be built in Bangkok, Thailand....
: Lat Phrao – Sri Nagarindra – Samut Prakan - Pink LineBangok Metro Pink LineThe Pink MRT line is a planned elevated mass rapid transit line to be built in Bangkok, Thailand. The will be some 35 km long and will run from east Bangkok to west Bangkok in the northern part of the city....
:Saen Saep – Ram-Inthra Rd. – Chaeng Watthana Road – Tiwanon-Ngamwongwan Road intersection. (35 km)
[Note] that these plans do not include the extension proposed for the Skytrain
Bangkok Skytrain
The Bangkok Mass Transit System, commonly known as the BTS Skytrain , is an elevated rapid transit system in Bangkok, Thailand. It is operated by Bangkok Mass Transit System Public Company Limited under a concession granted by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration...
, SRT Lines and airport link which is under the control of BMA and State Railway Thailand. BMCL itself expects to be the operator for the extension project and other lines but the final decision is still dependent on MRTA (government sector).
As per the BMCL's annual report, earning of profit from operation is still far away and BMCL is still subsidized by main share holder which is CH Karnchange. An accumulated deficit from now is estimated between 1,000 and 1,500 Million baht. Nevertheless, the deficit is partially mitigated by initial public offering and the earning per share is still giving with no hope to public share holder from now.
Major accident record
Thailand Cultural Centre
Thailand Cultural Centre is a performing-arts venue in Bangkok, Thailand.-History:Built with a grant from Japan, the Thailand Cultural Centre opened on October 9, 1987 as part of celebrations for King Bhumibol's 60th birthday.-Facilities:The venue consists of two auditoriums and one...
station. 140 people were hurt, most of whom sustained only minor injuries, and the entire Metro network was shut down for two weeks.
After initial investigations, it was found that the empty train had run into problems shortly before the accident, grinding to a halt on a curve leading to the depot. The driver applied its brake and was waiting to be towed to the maintenance centre close to Thailand Cultural Centre station.
A rescue train was attempting to connect to the stalled train when the driver was told to release the brake while coupling had not yet been successful. It was then that the empty train began to roll backwards at a speed of ten metres per second, before smashing into the other train, which was carrying passengers. Therefore, it was believed that the incident was caused by negligence due to insufficient training of operation staff. This accident also resulted in two damaged trains with heavily damaged areas limited to the two leading cars. The colliding speed was suspected to be about 60 km/h due to the appearance of damaged areas. However, one train, which was rebuilt from the repair of the minor-damaged cars, was already fitted for operation at the end of 2006 and the remaining one was still under heavy repair until mid of 2007; it was released into service in October, 2007. The cost resulting from the accident might be a much higher figure than BMCL quoted, and it was expected to be at least 400 million baht, which was totally insured by a local insurance company.
The Metro resumed full operation on 1 February 2005, and passenger numbers soon rose back to pre-crash levels, partly due to a temporary promotional fare scheme which allowed passengers to travel any distance on the MRT for only ten baht (~0.33 USD).
See also
- List of rapid transit systems
- Bangkok SkytrainBangkok SkytrainThe Bangkok Mass Transit System, commonly known as the BTS Skytrain , is an elevated rapid transit system in Bangkok, Thailand. It is operated by Bangkok Mass Transit System Public Company Limited under a concession granted by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration...
- BRT (Bangkok)
- SRT Lines
- Suvarnabhumi Airport Link
Official sites
- Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand
- Bangkok MRT Master Plan - Office of Transport and Traffic Policy Planning
- Bangkok Metro Company Limited
Unofficial sites
- Bangkok subway history at 2bangkok.com
- MRT Site at Transit Bangkok
- Bangkok Mass Transit
- The Modern Rail Based Mass Transit of Thailand (MRT and BTS photos)
- Unofficial Technical Data
Downloads
- Download a map of MRT, BTS, Khlong boats and Chao Phraya Express
- Download the System Map of Bangkok Rail Transit Network in PDF format
- Download the Master Plan of Bangkok Transport Network in PDF format (includes proposed extensions)
