Thales selected for rail ticketing system on MRT Blue Line extension
The companies carrying out an extension on Bangkok's Blue Line have selected Thales to provide the rail ticketing system.
Thales was chosen for the work by Bangkok Expressway Metro Public Co Ltd and Ch. Karnchang to deliver the automatic fare collection system for the rail extension.
The Chaloem Ratchamongkhon MRT line, better known as the Blue Line, was the first of Bangkok's underground metro lines to open in 2004. Thales is the incumbent supplier of the automatic fare collection system for the existing Blue Line, which now comprises 18 stations.
The extension will see an additional 19 stations that will support increased capacity and “a seamless passenger experience” as Bangkok seeks to alleviate traffic congestion in its metropolitan area and connect commuters travelling from outlying areas of the city. The full extension of the Blue Line is expected to open by March 2020, with daily usage expected to rise significantly by over 230,000 commuters.
Tommy Ayouty, country director for Thales in Thailand, said: "Thales is committed to enhancing the skill sets and expertise of the Thai transportation industry, aligned with Thailand's goals to strengthen its local industrial capabilities.
“We want to accompany Thailand in its big ambition towards developing a robust urban rail transport network."
