The government announces that the "Thai Help Thai Plus 60/40" program allows payment for bus, skytrain, boat, and intercity bus fares via the "Paotang" application starting today (1 June).","tags":["government","transportation","public transit","digital payment"]},{
On 1 June 2026, Ms. Lalida Pertwiwatthana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister, stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, the government continues to ease the cost of living through the "Thai Help Thai Plus 60/40" program. Starting from 1 June to 30 September 2026, the public can receive travel subsidies for public transportation systems including buses, intercity buses, skytrains, and boats to help reduce daily travel expenses and improve access to public transport nationwide.,
Ms. Lalida said the program allows daily use from 06:00 to 23:00 via the "Paotang" app. The government supports 60% of travel costs according to conditions for each transport type, representing a key measure to reduce citizens' financial burden during the economic recovery period.
The participating transportation systems in the program include:
BMTA buses can use the "Paotang" app to pay fares directly to conductors, covering all BMTA buses.
Intercity buses (BorKorSor) allow ticket purchases with government support up to 200 baht per day. Tickets can be bought at 139 BorKorSor bus stations nationwide.
MRT and BTS skytrains on all lines allow single-trip ticket purchases through the "Paotang" app, covering MRT Blue, Purple, Yellow, and Pink lines, as well as all BTS lines.
Chao Phraya express boats can be paid at designated points such as Sathorn, Iconsiam, Taksin Bridge, Ratchini, Phra Nakhon, and Pak Kret, among others.
Additionally, the government has expanded eligibility for state welfare cardholders to use the Thai Smile Bus (TSB) electric buses starting 28 May. Currently, 23 routes are operational, with plans to expand to all 124 routes by 15 June 2026. Users simply present their ID cards and pay fares via the EDC system on board, enhancing convenience, reducing cash use, and improving integration with public transport.
Ms. Lalida emphasized the government’s commitment to lowering living costs, especially travel expenses, which are a significant burden for many people. The government continues to develop accessible, convenient, safe, and interconnected public transportation systems to sustainably improve citizens’ quality of life while stimulating the grassroots economy.