The Operation of the First Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Route

The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), operated by the Traffic and Transportation Department of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, has begun running along the first route from the Chong Nonsi BTS station to the Ratchada-Ratchapreuk intersection in Thonburi. The 16.5 kilometer route comprises of 12 stations with a designated lane for the buses. From our observations, the buses arrive at 5-10 minute intervals but, despite the road barrier separating the bus lane, passenger cars do drive along the designated lane. The BRT is a step forward in the expansion of Bangkok’s public transportation system but it is far from being the most efficient. The question is: by what extent will the BRT reduce traffic congestion on Bangkok’s streets. It is not clear yet whether the BRT will prove successful as a mass transit system and we will hopefully be able to gather data on and monitor passenger numbers which will demonstrate the level of effectiveness of the new BRT.

BRT Route 1: Chong Nonsi BTS Station to Ratchada-Ratchapreuk Intersection

Source: Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, CBRE Research