BMA to launch boat services on Khlong Phasi Charoen

BANGKOK, March 20 (TNA) - The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is expected to launch its boat service along Khlong Phasi Charoen on Thon Buri side this July, aimed at easing traffic congestion in the Thai capital. BMA governor Mom Rajawongse Sukhumbhand Paribatra said a trial service has been conducted since April 2014 up till now and a daily average of passengers stands at 3,000 persons. A total of 12 new passenger boats with a combined investment of 40 million baht will be available for services to the public. So far two of them are complete and are used on trial basis while the remainder of 10 boats are expected to be ready this August. The new passenger boats will each have 40 seats and the maximum capacity to transport passengers is 60. Each of them is equipped with global positioning system tracking devices, safety board, four closed-circuit television cameras, wifi service, spaces for two wheelchairs and two motorcycles. Fares for the entire distance are projected at between 10 – 15 baht. (TNA)