The government confirms that the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) does not engage in extorting parking fees anywhere. It explains that the controversy over parking fees at Khlong Ban Ma station on the Orange Line involves a standard monthly service fee, and that a 1,000 baht refund will be issued if vehicles are removed by the deadline.
On 26 September 2026, Ms. Ploytale Lakshamisangchan, Deputy Spokesperson of the Office of the Prime Minister, stated that following reports circulating on social media about flood-affected citizens parking their vehicles at the Khlong Ban Ma park-and-ride facility on the Orange Line and being charged 1,000 baht per vehicle—sparking criticism of alleged extortion and further hardship—
the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) clarified that the 1,000 baht collected was the normal monthly parking fee for users of the Khlong Ban Ma park-and-ride building. This is because the affected group had parked their vehicles from the night of 25 September 2026, before MRTA officially announced free parking to assist flood victims in Bangkok. At that time, users opted for the monthly service, as it was cheaper than the daily rate.
After MRTA announced the free parking relief measure, parking building staff promptly contacted all users who had already paid, informing them that if vehicles were removed before 2 October 2026, MRTA would fully refund the 1,000 baht. However, if parking extended beyond 2 October 2026, the standard monthly parking fee of 1,000 baht would apply.
"We affirm that MRTA has not charged fees nor engaged in extorting parking payments anywhere. During this time of public hardship, we must support the people and alleviate their difficulties in line with government policy and directives from Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn," Ms. Ploytale said.
