The Transport Ministry of Thailand has announced that it will not continue the free bus and train services in Bangkok, a scheme introduced to address the ongoing PM2.5 pollution issue.

The initiative, which ran from January 25 to 31, aimed to reduce air pollution by encouraging public transport use.

Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit confirmed that the ministry would seek 190.41 million baht from the government’s central emergency fund to compensate transport operators.

Of this amount, 133.04 million baht is earmarked for the Bangkok Mass Transit System Public Company Limited (BTSC), the operator of the BTS Skytrain.

The BTSC had reportedly requested a higher compensation sum, but Suriya stated that the ministry would not approve any increase.

The free transport scheme proved popular, with passenger numbers soaring and a significant drop in the number of vehicles on the road—over 350,000 fewer vehicles daily.

The scheme’s success also highlighted public support for the upcoming introduction of a flat fare of 20 baht for all electric trains in Bangkok, slated for implementation by September this year.