Trial run launched for Bangkok's new extended electric train route

BANGKOK, May 10 (TNA) - Members of the Transport Committee of the National Legislative Assembly (NLA) have tried an electric train of the extended Purple Line in Bangkok, before it is opened for public service in August 2016. The Transport Committee's members on Tuesday boarded the electric train of the purple link, from the Khlong Bang Phai Station to the Tao Poon Station. The management of the Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) told the NLA representatives that the test runs of the Purple Line for general commuters will start next month and the link will be officially opened on August 6. MRTA Board Chair General Yodyuth Boonyatikarn told journalists that Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn will preside over a ceremony to inaugurate the extended Purple Line on August 6, when MRTA will first charge fares of 14-40 baht, depending on the distances. Meanwhile, Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited, the co-operator, announced that it is testing the system this month and the general public are welcome to try the new electric train service next month. (TNA)