The Democrat Party's deputy spokesperson pointed out that in Bangkok's Bike Sharing Phase 2 project, the city no longer receives compensation for granting usage rights as before. He raised concerns that the arrangement benefits private companies and does not address the needs of Bangkok residents, noting that granting rights for three years binds the next Bangkok city administration.
On 10 May 2026, Mr. Natkan Chuchana, deputy spokesperson for the Democrat Party, stated that in April, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), through the Traffic and Transportation Department, signed contracts granting three private companies rights to operate Bangkok's public bicycle program, or Bike Sharing Phase 2. This includes rights to install docking stations in public areas, operate commercial bicycle rental services, and advertise on the bicycles, all without any compensation or fees paid to the city. Previously, the BMA had signed a Phase 1 contract that ended on 27 February 2025, before entering the Phase 2 contract in April 2026, which lasts three years and still provides no compensation to the city. Prior to signing the Phase 2 contract, the BMA's Subcommittee on Culture, Tourism and Sports, chaired by Mr. Pinit Kanjanachusak, a council member representing Samphanthawong district, with Mr. Natkan as a member, advised the Traffic and Transportation Department responsible for the project that the Phase 2 contract “should appropriately consider benefits or compensation to Bangkok and its citizens.” However, this recommendation was not implemented.
“I therefore raise the concern that this project may give an unfair advantage solely to private companies using public sidewalks for business and revenue generation, especially in prime locations such as near BTS stations or tourist areas. While the initial Phase 1 contract might be understood as an incentive to encourage private investment, extending rights for another three years, which will bind the next Bangkok administration, without clear criteria on compensation, is inappropriate and should be reviewed to ensure fairness for all parties. As a cyclist myself, I recognize the benefits of cycling and do not oppose this policy, but it must be based on mutual benefits. The first priority before renting bicycles should be establishing safe infrastructure for cyclists, because currently cycling on sidewalks risks collisions with pedestrians, and cycling on roads is dangerous. We must consider how to ensure safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and all vehicle drivers,” Mr. Natkan said.