Free Bangkok transit rides for Royal cremation period
Free public transport in Bangkok will be provided October 25-27 to help people coming into, and moving through the capital to attend the funeral flower-laying sites for the Royal Cremation of HM the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
The BTS Skytrain's On Nut-Samrong and Wongwian Yai-Ban Wa extensions, the Airport Rail Link, and the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand’s (MRT) Purple Line will provide free services for the three days, said MRT deputy governor for operations, Anusilp Sirivejchapan.
The MRT Blue Line services — which are run by Bangkok Expressway and Metro Plc (BEM) — and the BTS Skytrain for On Nut-Mor Chit and National Stadium-Wongwian Yai routes would be free only on October 26 when they would remain open until 2am, Anusilp added.
From October 25-27, the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services (Sathorn-Rajapreuk) and public boat services at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem (Hua Lamphong-Thewarat Market) and Khlong Pasicharoen (Phetchkasem 69-Pratunam Pasicharoen), will be free, said Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Deputy Governor Pol Lt-General Chinnatat Meesuk.
There will also be a return to black-and-white TV, radio broadcasts from the capital and a general toning down of all entertainment from October 23 until the end of the month out of respect for the late King’s funeral ceremonies.