The Modern Bus Based Mass Transport of Bangkok.

A few days ago while in the inner city of Bangkok taking pictures of the BTS and MRT systems I documented the new modern city buses. These buses have only bee operating in small but increasing numbers since mid 2007. There are 3 companies operating the new buses. 2 of the companies use new yellow midi floor Chinese made buses. One company called “Metrobus” that took over from microbus operates Chinese made buses in white colour with LCD TVs inside for passengers.

These new Yellow buses are considered part of Bangkok’s modern mass transport mostly due to their age. However in the future there will be a BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system operating between Silom and The Mall Tha Phra in Thonburi via Rama 3 road. The BRT will use similar buses to the currently operating yellow buses. The BRT is currently under construction and has been delayed quite significantly due to politics.

The new buses made by King Long (Golden Dragon) are fully air-conditioned and are very comfortable. Although the seats could be made with a bit better quality materials they seem cheap and easy to become damaged. The fares on the yellow buses operated by 2 companies one of which is ‘Citybus” range from 12 baht to 25 baht a trip. The fares on “Metrobus” are a fixed 30 baht fare regardless of distance. They appear to only operate one route Victory Monument to Bang Khae in Thonburi.

The new yellow buses are currently operating on the following routes:

Route 8: Memorial Bridge – Kheha Rom Klao.

Route 115: Siam Park – Silom.

Route 92: Kheha Rom Klao – Victory Monument.

Route 40: Rama 9 Road – Southern Bus Terminal.

Route 542: Bi Directional Circle: Pink Lao – Wong Wien Yai – Victory Monument.

Route 539: Om Yai to Victory Monument.

Route 539 appears to have an expressway version at peak times using the yellow buses. This would be the 1^st bus route to use the elevated way on Boromarajaonani road in Thonburi.

1. This is a short movie showing what its like to ride on a new yellow bus. Taken between Victory Monument and Ari. The ticket lady can be seen walking around the bus. The buses are operated in a similar way to BMTA with boarding via front and back doors.

2. This is an image of a new yellow golden dragon bus operating on route 542 Bi Directional Circle: Pink Lao – Wong Wien Yai – Victory Monument. Bus Number 542 – 35. Taken at Victory Monument.

3. This is a picture of the front doorway of bus number 542-35. Note: The single step inside the door. These buses often look like low floor buses but they are not.

4. This is an inside shot of bus number 542-35. Note the amount of standing area and the seating style.

5. This is a rear shot of bus number 542-35. Taken from the overhead walkway at Victory monument. Note the older route 542 bus and the non aircond buses. This is a good image of the old and the new.

6. This is a shot of another yellow golden dragon bus. This bus operates on the very congested Route 8: Memorial Bridge – Kheha Rom Klao. Bus number 2 of “Citybus”.

7. This is a front on shot of bus 2 on route 8. This was the bus that I took to Ari. Note boarding is via front and back doors.

8. This is an inside shot taken facing the front of the above bus. Again this is not a low floor bus.

9. This is the driver’s seat and dashboard of the route 8 bus. It’s very modern when compared to other Thai city buses. It even has a working Speedo unlike most Thai buses.

10. This is a rear shot of bus number 8 at Ari taken from under the BTS station. Note the bus model number can be seen here “SLK 6111 UE6NA”. Most Thai buses don’t show any model numbers on them. Even when a symbol or model number is shown it’s often inaccurate.

I hope you find the pictures and vehicles shown to be of interest if you view this please post some comments and feelings about the pictures.

The Modern Rail Based Mass Transit of Thailand

A week ago I went into inner Bangkok to photograph the currently operating modern rail based mass transport systems and vehicles. The modern mass transit system consists of a 2 line elevated metro called BTS (Bangkok Skytrain System) and a single underground line called MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) or Subway by locals. The BTS system opened on the 5^th December 1999 and the Subway opened on the 3^rd July 2004.

The BTS Sukhumvit line operates from Mochit to Onnut. The BTS Silom line operates from Saphan Taksin to National Stadium. The MRT subway operates between Bang Sue SRT station in the north and Hualamphong SRT station in the south. The BTS takes 27 minutes to travel from Mochit to Onnut. The MRT takes about 30 minutes to complete its route. The BTS and MRT systems operate from 6 am to 12 am 7 days a week.

The subway was delayed greatly during construction due to the 1997 economic crash. Both systems use a 1435 mm rail gauge and 3^rd rail power supply system. The trains used on both systems are almost identical. The trains are produced and imported to Bangkok by Siemens. There have been a number of plans and ideas over the last few years to expand the BTS and MRT subway system. However the only new metro line extensions under construction are on the BTS system. 1. Wong Wien Yai to Saphan Taksin and 2. Onnut to Samrong (City of Samut Prakan). The next planned MRT line is likely to be Bang Sue to Bang Yai (City of Nonthaburi). An express rail link to the new Bangkok airport is also under construction at the moment.

This metro system really only covers the inner city areas of Bangkok. In the future it will extend into Thonburi and the middle and outer suburbs of Bangkok. These extensions are very overdue and very much needed now. Bangkok’s Mass transit beyond the inner city is mostly buses and a few low frequency diesel SRT trains.

The mass transit system map of Bangkok

Source: Wikipedia

Note: Currently the system covers only the inner city areas of Bangkok.

1. This is a view of Surasak BTS station on Sathorn road taken from the footbridge. Although the BTS elevated viaduct tends to blend into the background. The stations are quite large and tend to stick out.

2. This is a view of the ticket office and ticket barriers at Surasak BTS station. Taken from the western end of the station. The small blue objects on top of the ticket barriers are the smart card readers.

3. This is an image of a typical ticket vending machine at Surasak BTS station. The fares are based on the number of stations traveled (Distance based fare system) the minimum fare is 15 baht and the maximum fare is 40 baht a trip. The ticket machines only take 5 and 10 baht coins and issue a credit card sized magnetic ticket.

4. To exit from the train platforms you must use the stairs. There are no down escalators unlike on the MRT subway. Taken at National Stadium station.

5. To climb up to access the stations and platforms stairs and escalators are both available. Taken at National Stadium station.

6. This is an alternative view of the ticket barriers at National Stadium station.

7. This is an alternative view of the ticket office at National Stadium station. Note the ticket machines in the background. Every station has security guards at the ticket barriers to control the flow of people and to check for terrorist activity such as bombs. The small table is used to inspect passenger’s bags at times.

8. This is a typical BTS station platform all stations are in this style except for Saphan Taksin and Siam stations. Taken at Surasak BTS station.

9. This is a poster advertising the 40 trips in 30 days discounted travel pass. This is what the BTS promotes as a monthly pass.

10. This is a shot of 2 BTS trains passing each other at the eastern end of Surasak BTS station.

11. This is a short movie showing what it is like to ride on a BTS train. Filmed between Saphan Taksin and Surasuk BTS stations. Note the layout of the train and the gentle smooth ride of the train.

12. This is a poor quality image of the driver’s controls on the BTS train. The trains appear to be able to travel up to 100kph but always travel in normal service well below this speed.

13. This is an image of Saphan Taskin BTS station. This station is unusual in that it has only 1 platform. Also this station will remain as a single platform for both directions when the Thonburi/Wong Wien Yai BTS extension opens some time in the future. Thus this is the only single track section on a modern mass transit system in South East Asia.

14. This is a shot of the now complete but unused BTS extension into Thonburi taken from the western end of Saphan Taskin BTS station. This extension’s opening has been delayed since 2006 and is now expected to open in late 2008. This extension was funded by Bangkok city council.

15. This is a picture of a typical platform security guard. Their main job is to keep people off the tracks and to keep watch for terror activities.

16. This is a Siemens built BTS train stored just outside Saphan Taksin BTS station.

17. This is an inside shot of a BTS train taken at Onnut BTS station. Note: the large amount of grab handles and standing space. Also all BTS trains have longitudinal seating.

18. This is an image of the platform direction signs at the top of the escalators at Siam station. This station has 4 island type platforms. These platforms allow cross platform transfers between the 2 BTS lines.

19. This is a shot of the upper island platform at Siam station. Trains to Mochit and National Stadium depart from here.

20. This is a commemorative monument noting the opening of the BTS system by HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on the upper level platforms at Siam station.

21. This is a view of the track layout at the National Stadium end of Siam station.

22. This is an image of 2 BTS trains heading west and north away from Siam station.

23. This is an image of 2 BTS trains passing through the above layout at Siam station. The train on the left is heading to National Stadium and the train on the right is heading to Mochit.

24. This is a view of the track layout at the eastern end of Siam station.

25. This is an image of the platform makers at Siam station. These markers tell people where they should stand when waiting for the next train. These markers also help to keep the doors clear for passengers who are exiting the train.

26. This is an image of 2 BTS trains stored at the end of the line at Onnut station. Behind the trains is the construction of the Samrong BTS extension. The train on the right will form the next train to Mochit.

27. This is a close up of a railway signal on the end of the platform at Onnut BTS station.

28. This is a picture of a BTS train waiting to depart Onnut station.

29. This a view of the BTS elevated track looking away from Onnut station.

30. This is a view of the entrance to Onnut BTS station. Taken from a linking footbridge.

31. This is an alternative view of the trains stored at Onnut station. Note the construction of the new BTS extension.

32. This is a general view of a mid line train holding area near Asoke BTS station. Note how densely developed this area is.

33. This is a shot of a BTS train approaching Asoke station. This station is one of three interchange points for the MRT subway system. The interchange stations are Asoke, Silom and Mochit.

34. This is a picture of the emergency train stop control on each platform at every station. These are used when someone falls onto the track or other major hazards.

35. This is a typical exit map found at BTS and MRT stations. This helps passengers to find which exit is closest to where they want to go and if there are any sky bridges to there building.

36. This is an image of the linking walkway between the BTS and MRT systems at Asoke. The 2 lines do not share stations or ticket systems. Fare integration is due to happen in the future.

37. This is a view of the entrance to Sukhumvit MRT station. Note the MRT does not use the same names at interchanges with the BTS. Also unlike on the BTS all passengers must pass a bag inspection to enter the MRT subway system.

38. This is a shot of a typical MRT subway station. This was taken at Klong Toei MRT station. Note: the platform screen doors and the clean and well-lit station.

39. This is a movie showing the MRT station at Sukhumvit (Asoke) and the platform screen doors in use plus boarding of the train and a short ride towards to Hualamphong station.

40. This is a short movie showing what its is like to ride on a MRT subway train. Filmed between Petchaburi and Rama 9 stations. Note the train announcements and the opening and closing of doors etc.

41. This is a view of station concourse at Klong Toei MRT station. Note the ticket barriers and the very bright ticket office.

42. This is an inside view of a MRT train. Note: the longitudinal seating and large amount of standing space and handrails.

43. This is a view of the paid passenger area inside Chatuchak Park MRT station.

44. This is a shot of the ticket machine in Chatuchak Park MRT station. These ticket machines are more modern than on the BTS and take both coins and notes. The machine issues a small black round disk about the size of a 10 baht coin.

45. This is a view of the entrance to Mochit BTS station. The MRT is not directly connected to the BTS station. You have to exit to the street and then walk a little and enter the BTS. All other MRT stations have some kind of direct walkway to connect the BTS and MRT stations together.

46. This is a view of a couple of BTS trains on the BTS track that leads to the BTS maintenance yard at Mochit station.

47. This is a shot of the park and ride at Mochit BTS station. Note the track and building behind it. This is the BTS maintenance yard.

48. This is another view of the BTS maintenance yard and “park and ride”. This area used to be a major bus terminal for intercity buses to the north and north east of Thailand. The bus terminal was moved about 1.5km away to a place called Mochit 2.

49. This is a view of the BTS train passing behind Victory Monument on the curved track. Victory Monument is the main inner city bus terminal for city buses in Bangkok. More than 100 bus routes operate from here.

50. This is a shot of the different kinds of tickets used on the BTS and MRT systems of Bangkok. The 2 cards on the left are MRT stored value smartcards. The white card is the BTS smartcard. The small paper tickets are Bus tickets. The small paper ticket to the far right with A on it is the Dao Khanong mass transit boat service ticket.

I hope you find the pictures and vehicles shown to be of interest if you view this please post some comments and feelings about the pictures.

SRT: The Maeklong line and Maeklong railway market

A few days ago I went for a late afternoon trip to Maeklong. I started my Journey at Mahachai West (Ban Laem). However if you started in Bangkok this is not where you would start your trip. If coming from Bangkok you would join the train at Wong Wien Yai station in Thonburi and travel to Mahachai. Then cross the river and pick it up from Ban Laem.

The Maeklong Line was built as a short private coastal line around 107 years ago by the Maeklong railway company. This line is the second part of the Maeklong commuter railway system. The system consists of the Wong Wien Yai to Mahachai and the Ban Laem to Maeklong lines. This line was taken over by the “City of Maeklong” and SRT in the 1960s. This line has one of the lowest line speeds in Thailand averaging only 30kph for the whole line. With large sections under 20kph.

Today the line is operated by a single Japanese DMU railcar. SRT unit numbers 1210 and 1213. These where built in the 1980s in Japan for use as commuter DMUs on the main system and for use on the Maeklong commuter system. The Maeklong line only has one train set available for use at anytime. This is due to the line being 100% isolated from any other railway.

As a result of this the dedicated people at SRT have to make sure that the train keeps running in service no matter what. This unit hit a truck in 2006 and damaged the front end. They have tried to patch up the damage recently with sheets of metal and some kind of glue. No Freight trains operate on this line passenger trains only operate now days. Freight did operate in the past. Also this line does not have a signal system like is found on the main system or on other railways around the world. There is only one train it is not possible for it hit another train.

The train timetable for this line is:

Ban Laem to Maeklong runs at 7.30 am, 10.10 am, 1.10 pm and 4.40 pm.

Maeklong to Ban Laem runs at 6.20 am, 9.00 am, 11.30 am and 3.30 pm.

The trip takes 1 hour end to end.

PICTURE QUALITY NOTES: Due to the pictures being taken late in the day some images may be darker or brighter than normal as the sun was low in the sky and behind the train most of the way. Also this line is very hard to photograph due to the dirty windows on the ends of the train and the trains rough motion.

1. This is an image of the Ban Laem station area. The starting point for my journey on the Maeklong line. To get here you take a cross-river ferry from Mahachai city. Taken looking west from the remains of the Ban Laem rail yard.

2. Another view of Ban Laem station. Looking east towards the river. The building next to the rail tractor is the ticket office.

3. This is an image of SRT Rail tractor Unit 17. This appears to have been used to carry ballast for the line in the past. It’s not known if it still works, as it has not moved an inch in years.

4. Another angle on the rail tractor. The age of this rail vehicle is not known. Taken from next to the ticket office.

5. This is the train timetable at Ban Laem station. The trains are almost always on time and the times are very rarely changed.

6. This is the remains of an old DMU that fell apart in the rail yard at Ban Laem. The type is unknown. But it looks similar to some old DMUs used on SRTs Issan lines.

7. This is an image of the platform track at Ban Laem station. The last time the rails where replaced was in 1912.

8. This is an image of the last up train for the day approaching Ban Laem station. Note the lifting jacks and the track quality here. Also the last remains of the yard junction is visible.

9. The train has almost arrived at Ban Laem. The platform here is curved. SRT Train Unit 1210.

10. This is an image of the damaged Train unit 1213. They have tried to repair it using sheet metal and glue. This train hit a truck sometime in 2006 and for along time the damage was clearly visible. The accident pushed the wall and frame back around the drivers cab.

11. This is another image showing the damage to train unit 1213. Taken while sitting in the platform road at Ban Laem station waiting to depart on the last trip for the day to maeklong.

12. This is an image of the passenger area of the train. A lot of school students take this last train home.

13. Another inside image looking though from one car to the other. On the right are the toilets.

14. This is a shot of the rear driver’s cab of unit 1210. They don’t bother locking up the driver’s cab here. Note the condition of the controls etc.

15. This is track just after leaving Tha Chalom station note the closeness of the homes and the quality of the track. Taken from the rear driver’s cab.

16. This is a shot of one of the many humpback rail bridges on this line taken near Ban Chi Phakhao station.

17. The station sign at Ban Chi Phakhao station. This is one of the middle of nowhere stations that serve areas where people have no access to roads.

18. This is an image of a typical section of track on the Maeklong line. Note the lovely track quality.

19. This is a short movie showing the ride quality of the Maeklong train and its rear driving cab. Most for the line runs though salt farms and prawn farms. The track is very rough and in poor condition for most of the line.

20. This is Khlong Nok Lek Station. This is another middle of nowhere station. Taken from the rear driver’s cab just after the train has started to leave the station. Note the people who use the station.

21. This is Bang Si Khot station. Yet another middle of nowhere station. This station has a small dirt road leading to it.

22. This is an image of minor track flooding. Often this water can be seawater that has inundated the land in this area. The railway is less than 2 km from the sea here.

23. This is a typical level crossing on the Maeklong line. No lights, No booms and No signs. A couple of locals cross the line on Motorbikes. In the background the dark area of the track is from earlier track flooding.

24. This is a shot of another humpback rail bridge.

25. This is Bang Krachao station. Note the simple station facilities and the evidence of track flooding from the morning. Homes to the south of the railway line tend to have very limited road access if at all.

26. Another example of a humpback rail bridge. Also the road bridges tend to be steep humpback bridges as well. The reason for the humpback bridges is the requirement to have boat access on most klongs in this area. Taken near Ban Bo station.

27. This is a movie showing what its like to ride the Maeklong train over one of the many humpback rail bridges. It can be quite bumpy plus it slows the train down as the humpback bridge creates a steep grade up and then down.

28. This is Ban Bo station one of the larger stations on the line.

29. This is Bang Thorut Station. The sign is all that there is at this station. Like most stations on this line it does get used.

30. This is a pic showing the lovely track quality and short 5 metre rail lengths.

31. This is Ban Ka Long station. A truck-bus also operates to here from Mahachai city.

32. This is Ban Na Khwang station. This is where Rama 2 road crosses the Maeklong line. The station is built under the road bridge.

33. This is Ban Na Kok station. It just has a small concrete platform. Note the lovely track quality here.

34. This is Ked Muang station. This is the 1^st station in the “City of Maeklong”.

35. This is Lad Yai station the second last stop before Maeklong station. Note the booms and lights in the background no longer work.

36. This is a Movie of the final approach and the passing of the train though the Maeklong railway market. This film shows why this railway is so special for rail fans and tourists. It’s the way this market opens and closes around the moving train. This occurs 8 times a day every day of the week. Maeklong station is the end of the market and the line.

37. This Maeklong station. The end of the line. This is the ticket office. Buses are available here to Pak Tho and Ratchburi on the main south line. These buses take about an hour to get there.

38. The market after the train has been though. All back to normal. The market is quieter now as it’s close to the end of the working day.

39. This is an image of the train ticket I used on the train. The large printed ticket at the bottom is the Maeklong line ticket. The smaller tickets are the intercity bus tickets. These are not always issued to every passenger.

This is an overview of the Maeklong line as it stands now and has for the last 107 years. However this line is being considered for a major upgrade within the next 15 years. This upgrade will put an end to the railway market. The upgrade will involve running a 4 track tunnel from Hualamphong to somewhere after Talat Phlu station near Bangkok and then running the 4 lines all the way to Mahachai which will be in an new deep underground station along with Ban Laem and Tha Chalom stations.

The Maeklong line its self will be double track in the future and Maeklong station will be deep underground too as the line will be extended to Pak Tho and become the new main south line as it cuts 90 minutes off the journey time for trains on the current main south line. Also the line speeds will be increased from an average of 30 kph to 120kph after the upgrade. For the moment this project is still at planning stage. However, if you want to see or ride this line its best to make the trip in the next few years as it may not exist in its current form forever.

I hope you find the pictures and vehicles shown to be of interest if you view this please post some comments and feelings about the pictures.

The Mass Transport Vehicles of Mahachai City.

A few days ago I went on a trip to Mahacahi city to film and photograph the various forms of mass transport used in this area. I started my trip at Kheha Thonburi (Rama 2) and traveled to Mahachai by the means of bus route 68.

Mahachai city is a major port city about 50 km from the inner city areas of Bangkok. Mahachai is a very industrial place. With hundreds of factories that manufacture all kinds of things. The city of Mahachai has existed for over 200 years and was founded on the banks of the Thachin River and Klong Mahachai. This area provides the perfect spot for a deep water fishing port. Therefore Mahachai’s main industry is fishing and seafood products. It is famous around Thailand for its fresh seafood. A lot seafood is exported to the USA, EU, Australia and around Asia. When you buy prawns in Australia that say “imported” it’s likely it came from the Mahachai area.

The Mahachai area is very low lying only about 50 cm above sea level with huge areas of mangrove swamps. The city is only 2 km from the gulf of Thailand. There are no beaches of any type for 50 km in either direction of Mahachai city.

The people are mostly made up of Thai fishermen and Burmese laborers who mostly work under the radar. More recently there has been an increase in Thai Chinese and Japanese who operate businesses and the hundreds of factories in the area. As a result of this high concentration of factories and the port the area attracts a lot of poor upcountry Thai (Issan) and Burmese workers who are often not treated well by their bosses. The average Thai factory workers pay is 200 baht a day the average for Burmese is around 120 baht a day.

This area has a wide range of mass transport types. These are SRT train, Bus, truck, pedal cab, motorbike and boat. A lot of the transport vehicles are very old but are very well used even in this modern age.

1. This is a picture of the route 68 bus that I took to Mahachai city. Bus number 68-14. This is a merc bus like most Thai buses. Route 68 operates from Sanam Luang to Mahachai via Rama 2 road. Taken at Kheha Thonburi (soi 60). This route runs every 10 mins from 4am to 11pm 7days a week.

2. This is an image of the inside of bus 68-14 taken near Kheha Thonburi on Rama 2 road.

3. This is a short movie showing what its like to ride on a route 68 bus. This is an air-conditioned bus and almost all the seats where taken. Note: the short stops and general nature of this bus.

4. This is a picture of one of the main junctions in the center of Mahachai city. This is taken near the police station on Ekkachai road. The large building in the background is a new 7 story apartment complex that rents out from 3800 baht per month.

5. This is a short movie showing the area around the main bus terminal next to Mahachai Peir. Note: the amount of buses and trucks that are passing. Also there is quite a range of different types of vehicles.

6. This is a shot of a long distance commuter truck-bus service taken near Mahachai police station. This is truck number 6035-9 this truck operates on route 6035: Mahachai city to Cal Com (industrial complex). Most of these trucks make up the Mahachai mass transport system. They operate either on a 15 min or 30 min frequency from 4am to 8pm 7days a week.

7. This is a image of truck number 8221-19 operating on route 8221: Mahachai city to Ban Ka Long .The truck-bus routes cover most of the semi rural outer areas of Mahachai city. Taken at Mahachai Pier bus terminal.

8. This is an inside shot of a typical Mahachai commuter truck-bus. They are similar in comfort to a non aircond metro bus. These larger trucks operate on routes of between 60 to 90 minutes long. Taken at Mahachai Pier bus terminal.

9. This is another inside shot of a truck bus. Taken at Mahachai Pier bus terminal.

10. This is an image of a smaller high frequency truck bus service. Truck number 8183-32 is operates on route 8183: Mahachai city to Pin Tong. These small trucks tend to operate on suburban routes that run every 5 mins.

11. This is a shot of the yellow truck that operates from Mahachai city to Central Rama 2. This is a bit of an odd ball route in that it operates as a long distance route along Rama 2 road into middle suburban Bangkok. The route is about 1 hour long.

12. This is a shot of the short distance country bus stop at Mahachai pier. These orange buses operate on routes of up to 3 hours long. They only operate non aircond buses on these routes.

13. This is a pic of Bus number 976-1096. This bus operates on route 976 from Dao Khanong to Maeklong via Mahachai and Rama 2. Seen at Mahachai Pier. Every 30 mins off peak and every 10 mins peak. Takes about 2 hours end to end.

14. This is a rear shot of bus number 976-1096 taken at Mahachai pier. This is an air conditioned intercity bus. Type unknown.

15. This is a rear shot of a Route 402 Mahachai to Nakhon Pathom. This route operated every 10 mins from 4am to 8pm 7days as week. It takes 2 hours to complete this route. Bus no. 402-2. Merc Non aircond Country bus.

16. This is an inside shot of Bus no. 402-2. Note this bus has 2 + 3 seating. It can be a bit cramped inside when busy.

17. This is a pic of a route 481 bus Mahachai to Maekong This route operated every 20 mins from 4am to 8pm 7days a week. It takes about 1 hour to complete. Bus number 481-14. Type: Merc Non aircond country bus.

18. This is an inside shot of bus number 481-14. Unlike the route 402 bus this has 2+2 seating which is much nicer.

19. This is another angle on Bus number 481-14. Taken at Mahachai Pier.

20. This is a pic of a “Mahachai route” 6 bus. Route 6 operates from Mahachai to Klong Bang Ya. This is bus number 6-11 seen at the bus stop behind Mahachai station. Type unknown. Every 15 mins.

21. This is an inside shot of bus number 6-11. This is taken facing the rear.

22. This is an inside shot of bus number 6-11 showing the drivers seat area.

23. This is a pic of Bus number 120 – 18 operating on Route 120: Klong San to Mahachai Pier via Ekkachai rd. Bus type Unknown. This bus passes a large number of industrial complexes and seafood factories.

23. This is a collection of fishing boats. Moored at Mahachai West (Ban Laem). These boats normally go out to sea at night and return around 4am. This is what makes Mahachai famous for its seafood.

24. This is the Mahachai cross-river ferry terminal. Taken from the Ban Laem side of the river. It costs only 3 baht to use the ferry. They operate on a continuous shuttle all day.

25. This is a movie showing what it’s like to ride on a cross-river ferry from Mahachai to Ban Laem. These ferries take people and motorbikes. The roofline of the ferry is quite low so it makes the movie a bit dark at times. Also you get a nice view of the fishing port while you ride across the river.

26. This is an image of a large modern fishing ship moored at the main port area on the Klong Mahachai side of the river.

27. This is the wall that the “City of Mahachai” has been building for the last few years to fight off “climate change” sea level rise and land erosion by the sea and river.

28. This is a picture of the pedal taxis waiting near the Pier at Ban Laem. It costs around 15 baht for a short ride. On the right side of the picture is a motorbike taxi that is the pedal taxi’s direct competitor and costs 10 baht for a short ride.

Note: There are no pictures of the railways of the Mahachai area, as I will post them in a separate topic, as there is a lot to see and discuss about the railway systems in Mahachai.

I hope you find the pictures and vehicles shown to be of interest if you view this please post some comments and feelings about the pictures.

The Maeklong Bus Terminal

After riding the last Maeklong train in the late afternoon I had to get back to Bangkok. So I took one of the many buses that compete with the railway. There are only a handful of bus routes operating from this bus terminal. Local commuter truck buses don’t operate from here with the sole exception being the 333. Other than that route all the buses are intercity or country buses. The sun had almost set at the time I took these pictures but its not common to see transport pictures taken close to sunset or sunrise.

1. This is an image of Bus number 976-1083. This bus operates on route 976: Maeklong to Dao Khanong via Mahachai city and Rama 2. It is a second class intercity bus. Make unknown. Taken as it was leaving Maeklong bus terminal.

2. This is another route 976 bus. Bus number 976-7. This is a second class intercity bus. This was the bus I took home. At this time of the day the frequency is every 30 mins.

3. This is an image of Bus Number 467-16. This bus operates on route 467: Maeklong to Damnoen Saduak. The bus type is unknown. Taken at Maeklong bus terminal.

4. This is another shot of Bus number 467-16. This is a short distance country bus route. Every 30 mins all day. It is operated by a private company.

5. This is an image of bus number 972 – 887. This bus operates on route 972 Maeklong to Mochit 2 via Mahachai and Om Yai. This is a Merc 2^nd class intercity bus. Taken at Maeklong bus terminal.

6. This is a shot of bus number 471-18. This bus operates on route 471 Maeklong to Ratchburi. This is a merc country bus. Model not known.

7. This is an inside shot of bus number 976-7. This bus left Maeklong at 6.30pm.

I hope you find the pictures and vehicles shown to be of interest if you view this please post some comments and feelings about the pictures.

The New Southern Bus Terminal + Intercity buses.

On Sunday afternoon I took a ride out to see the new southern bus terminal. This terminal is for most intercity buses head to the west and south of Bangkok. Some of the destinations include: Nakhon Pathom, Hua Hin, Phuket, Yala and Hat Yai. This new terminal is about 10 km further out of Bangkok to the west of the old bus terminal at Pink Lao. This is the not the 1^st time that this terminal has been moved. The new southern bus terminal opened in December 2007.

This terminal is much bigger than the old one thus has much more space. I estimate it to be about half the size of the mega Mochit 2 bus terminal. However, this terminal is built partly like an airport and partly like a shopping centre. Inside the terminal there are restaurants and shops that include KFC, chemist and a few banks. There are hundreds of ticket counters one for each route and each class of bus.

This is a movie taken in the bus area of the new southern bus terminal. It shows the general view plus some double deck intercity buses.

1. This is a picture of the city bus stop outside the front of the new bus terminal.

2. This is a general view of the air-conditioned waiting/ticketing area of the bus terminal. This same floor has the shopping center and banks.

3. This is an image of the 2^nd and 3^rd class bus ticket counters.

4. This is an image of the 1^st and VIP class bus ticket counters.

5. This is the only place in Thailand that has electronic bus departure screens that show the next bus out. The code section is the bus route number. Route that has 63 uses an old number as most intercity routes are now 9XX numbers.

6. This is an image of the bus level waiting area. This is outdoors so it can get quite hot. There are about 90 bus platforms at this new bus terminal.

7. This shows the general view from the roadway between the main platforms (1-75) and the extension platforms (76 – 90). There is a lot more space than the old terminal plus this terminal has concrete roadways not dirt.

This next section shows a series of different intercity buses that use the terminal. I don’t know a lot about the types and models of these buses. If anyone does know them please post a comment stating what type of bus it is with the picture number. Note: All buses shown are air conditioned some better than others.

8. This is a picture of a 1^st class bus to Narathiwat in the deep south of Thailand. Also a lot of these buses carry parcels traffic as well as passengers. (2+2 seating)

9. This is a 1^st class Scania double deck intercity bus heading to Yala and the Malaysian border in the south of Thailand. (2+2 seating)

10. This is a 1^st class single deck intercity bus to Danchang in the south. Make unknown. (2+2 seating)

11. This is a 1^st class semi double deck intercity bus to Phuket. Make unknown. (2+2 seating)

12. This is a 32 seat VIP semi double deck intercity bus to Hat Yai and Dannok in the deep south. This bus is operated by a private company as shown by the yellow stripe. The seating of this bus is (1+2). Make unknown.

13. This is a Scania VIP double deck intercity bus to Hat Yai. This bus has 2+2 seating. This is also operated by a private company.

14. This is an older Merc single deck 2^nd class intercity bus used on shorter trips. This bus operates on intercity route 69.

15. This is a group of older 2^nd class intercity buses using the extension platforms as a bus layover. Most of the bus types are unknown.

16. This is a group of 1^st class intercity buses on the main terminal side under the link bridge. One of these routes goes to Ratchaburi about 2 to 3 hours away. Most of the bus types are unknown.

17. This is a side view of an older Merc 2^nd class intercity bus heading to Kanchaburi in the west. Bus number (second class) 81-11.

18. This is the driver’s cab of a Scania double deck intercity bus.

19. This is the interior of a scania double deck intercity bus. Note: this is a VIP bus with 2+2 seating. The blue towels are to keep you warm on the long 16 hour trip to hat yai.

20. This is a rear shot of the semi double deck and double deck Scania buses. They appear the same height but one is shorter.

21. This is a shot of an older 2^nd class intercity bus to Prachap Khri khan. The driver had opened up all the doors and panels for ventilation.

22. This is an inside shot of the same 2^nd class bus.

23. This is a merc O404 2^nd class intercity bus. Heading to Phanganga in the south.

This next section of images where taken on the way back from southern bus terminal.

24. This is a poor quality image of one of the new yellow city buses operated by “BMTA” and “City Bus” I just spotted it as it was driving off from the city bus terminal in front of the southern bus terminal.

25. This is another new yellow city bus heading into the city on the other side of the main road taken at southern bus terminal. Both this bus and the one before operate on Route 539: Om Yai to Victory Monument. This is not a good image of it. These yellow buses are very well air conditioned and have a lower floor than normal buses but it still has one step inside the door.

26. This is a Route 127: Bang Bua Thong to Arun Amarin Bridge. Bus Number 127-19. This is an old merc non aircond bus. Taken at the southern bus terminal this bus is heading to Bang Bua Thong. Note: Behind this bus is Route 146 the bus I took home.

I hope you find the pictures and vehicles shown to be of interest if you view this please post some comments and feelings about the pictures.

A Ride on Route 146 (Kanchana Phisek rd)

While on my way out to the new southern bus terminal. I rode on Route 146 Circle: Bang Khae – Outer Ring Road. This route uses only non airconditioned buses some are NGV powered some are diesel powered. This is one of the 2 major routes of Kanchana Phisek road. This route links the massive mall Bang Khae with the new southern bus terminal. The frequency of this route is around every 5 mins. Route 146 operates from 4am to 10pm 7 days a week.

1. This is a picture of the bus that I rode from Bang Khae.

This is a short movie showing what it is like to ride on route 146. Note: The cracked door window and the general nature of the bus. The ticket lady can be seen walking around the bus.

2. This is an image of Bus no 146-36 waiting at the route 146 holding area at Puttha Monthon sai 2.

3. This is an image of the drivers seat on bus no 146-36 taken at Puttha Monthon Sai 2.

4. This is an image of the passenger area of bus 146-36 taken at Puttha Monthon sai 2.

5. This is an image of bus no 146-37 at Puttha Monthon sai 2.

6. This bus was seen on Kanchana Phisek rd. A new bus company called “Metrobus” owns this bus. This is one of the newest buses in Bangkok. The route it is meant to operate on is unknown. This is not a low floor bus but has single step inside the door. This is a Chinese made city bus.

7. On the return from the new southern bus terminal I had to use route 146 again.

This is an image of the route 146 bus depot. They have a large number of buses just for this route. The actual number is unknown but there are probably 50 to 60 buses. This is where they repair and maintain the route 146 buses. This depot is located just off Boromarajaonani rd near southern bus terminal.

8. I had to change buses here, as the bus I was on needed more fuel. This is the bus that I took Bus no: 146-2. Note: This bus had an odd burning smell coming from it as it drove along. Which was stronger when it stopped. This smell didn’t seem to be annoying the bus driver.

I hope you find the pictures and vehicles shown to be of interest if you view this please post some comments and feelings about the pictures.

A Ride on Route 147 (Kanchana Phisek rd)

While on my way out to the new southern bus terminal. I rode on Route 147 Circle: Dao Khanong – Outer ring road. This route uses only non airconditioned buses some are NGV powered some are diesel powered. This is one of the 2 major routes of Kanchana Phisek road. This route links Rama 2 road (Kheha Thonburi) with the mall Bang Khae. This route runs every 2 to 5 mins. This route operates from 5am to 10pm 7 days a week.

1. This is an image of a route 147 bus seen at Kheha Thonburi.

2. This is one of a couple of short movies taken on a route 147 bus. This film shows the general condition of the route 147 buses. Also shown is how short a “pick up” bus stop is less than 5 seconds for the passengers to board the bus. The bumpiness of the film is due to the poor suspension of the bus or the road.

3. This is a film taken on a route 147 bus on the return trip from Bang Khae. This bus had a problem with its roof every time it hit a bump in the road it would shake from side to side as well as up and down as it if was about to rip apart. Also shown are the short stops.

Note: Due to the bumpy motion of the bus the moving roof is hard to see in the video but trust me it was moving a lot.

I hope you find the pictures and vehicles shown to be of interest if you view this please post some comments and feelings about the pictures.

A Trip from Wong Wian Yai to Bang Bon on the SRT Mahachai line.

Today I took a trip on my local railway line. I started at Wong Wian Yai station and traveled to Bang Bon station. This railway is 100% isolated from the rest of the rail system. This railway is part of the Maeklong commuter system that operates from Wong Wian Yai to Mahachai and Ban Laem to Maeklong. Takes about 2 hours to complete both lines.

A little background about these lines. They were built by private companies around 107 years ago. They have a 14 meter wide land reserve which is a lot narrower than the main system. Although buildings have been built right upto the edge the line. It appears today these lines are owned by the city of Mahachai and the city of Maeklong with SRT providing a contract service.

When the line was built it did operate to Klong San station but this was closed in 1963. Its possibly due to the fact that track from Klong San station to Wong Wian Yai was shared with road traffic on Charoen Rat road. A rail bus (Route 57) provides the link now. Up until 1963 Klong San to Wat Sing was electrified and tram like trains did run. The reason for de electrification is unknown. A possiable reason for de-electrification might be that the substation that powered the light tramway overhead on this line was located at klong san station. This was removed when the on road section was removed . Thus cutting off the power to the overhead system for the rest of the line.

1. This is the station sign above the ticket office at Wong Wian Yai station

2. This is a 3 car Japanese non aircond DMU train waiting to depart the station. Taken from across the small railway soi next to the station.

3. This shows how busy the station gets at peak times the train shown had just arrived.

4. Wat Sai station Note this station doesn’t have any end of platform station signs.

5. This is the passing loop at Wat Sing station.

6. Wat Sing station. This is one of the main station and a crossing point for the trains.

7. An off peak train heading inbound this is the passenger seating taken around Wat Sing area.

8. These trains operate with the carriage doors open on most trains this was taken between Bang Bon and Wat Sing stations. This is due to the doors being damaged at some point.

9. Busy Early peak hour train with the doors wide open near Talat Phlu station.

10. This is a view of My local station Bang Bon.

11. A Mahachai bound train is arriving at Bang Bon Station.

12. The same Mahachai bound train departing Bang Bon taken as it runs across Bang Khunthian road. Note this train has an air-conditioned carriage.

13. The platform timetable in the waiting room at Bang Bon station. The times are very rarely changed and the trains tend to always be close to time.

14. This shows the humpback rail bridge at the up end of Bang Bon. Note the track quality here. The platform sign at Bang Bon station.

15. This shows the track quality at the down end of Bang Bon station and the open level crossing. Note: The level crossing is manually operated booms.

16. The level crossing is now closed and the up train to Wong Wian Yai station is arriving at Bang Bon.

17. The feeder truck bus service holding area next to Bang Bon station.

18. The station sign at Chom Thong station. Note: This station is a peak hour only station and they have bananas next to the station.

19. These are the 2 different types of tickets issued for the mahachai line. The larger one is issued at the ticket office. The blue one is issue on board the train.

I hope you find the pictures and vehicles shown to be of interest if you view this please post some comments and feelings about the pictures.

SRT Mahachai Train runs with the doors wide open.

This is a couple of videos showing a SRT commuter train running with the doors wide open.

These trains operate with the carriage doors open on most trains this was taken between Bang Bon and Wat Sing stations. This is due to the doors being damaged at some point.

1. Taken on an SRT train between Bang Bon and Wat Sing stations during the off peak. The doors on both sides where broken.

2. Taken on an SRT train between Wong Wian Yai and Talat Phlu Stations. This train is an early peak hour train so its getting busy now. This train also has a broken door.

I wonder if the OHS morons on western railways would die of shock at this train. This goes out especially for the Australian railways and their over the top safety concerns. As you can see everyone is relaxed and happy on the SRT train.

The Buses of Wong Wian Yai

While waiting for a return train to Bang Bon station I walked around the Wong Wian Yai station area and photographed a wide range of local Thonburi buses. These pictures where taken at the start of peak hour in Bangkok so the traffic is beginning to build up.

1. A Route 37 Bus: Chaeng Ron to Maha Nak. This is some kind of Merc Euro 2 bus. Taken at the front of Wong Wian Yai station. Note: This bus was stuck in a stand still jam the lady was running to get this bus. Every 10 mins.

2. A route 167 Bus: Bang Bon to Klong San. This is a Merc non aircond bus This is one of many routes that compete with the train. Taken at Wong Wian Yai Station also stuck in the same traffic jam. Every 10 mins.

3. A route 42 Mini Bus: Bi directional Circle Tha Phra to Giant Swing. This is a Merc Mini Bus type unknown. Bus number not visible. Taken at the Intharaphithak rd bus stop in Wong Wian Yai. Note these mini buses can hold upto 42 people. Every 2 to 5 mins.

4. A route 4 Bus: Klong Toei Port to Phasi Charoen Pier. BMTA number 4-40460. taken at the Intharaphithak rd bus stop. This is a Hino Non aircond bus. Every 5 mins. (24 hour service)

5. A route 43 bus: Sueksa Nari Witthaya School 2 to Klong San. Bus number not visible. Bus type Unknown. This is yet another bus that competes with the railway line. Taken at the Intharaphithak rd bus stop. Every 10 mins.

6. A route 164 bus: Puttha Monthon Sai 4 to Victory Monument. Bus number 164-49. Bus type unknown. Taken at the Intharaphithak rd bus stop. Every 10 mins.

7.A route 7 bus: Klong Khwang to Hua Lamphong. BMTA Number 6-30311. This is some type of Merc city bus. Taken at the Intharaphithak rd bus stop. Every 5 mins. (24 hour service)

8. A route 89 bus: Bangkok Rajamangala Institute of Technology to Taling Chan Police Station. Bus number 89-10.Bus type unknown. Taken at the Intharaphithak rd bus stop. Every 5 to 10 mins.

9. This is one of a few unusual Green minibuses seen on route 42 at the Intharaphithak rd bus stop. Bus number and type not known. Possiably a merc. These appear to be a better version as they are taller inside.

10. Route 84N bus: Aue Arthon Villiage (Salaya) to Klong San. BMTA number 6-56119. This is an Isuzu Bus. There are thousands of these aircond buses. This is the second most new type of bus in Bangkok. Taken at the Intharaphithak rd bus stop. Every 5 to 10 mins.

11. Route 542 bus: Bi directional circle Pink Lao to Victory Monument. Bus Number 542 –13. This is an O404 Merc City bus. Taken at the Intharaphithak rd bus stop. This route also has the New Yellow city buses. Every 10 mins.

12. Route 111 bus: Bi Drectional Circle Talat Phlu market to Bukkhalo. BMTA number 5- 40118. This is a Hino bus. It is operated from the Samae Dum BMTA depot. Taken at the Intharaphithak rd bus stop. Every 10 mins.

13. Route 9 bus: Samsen railway station to Soi Gamnunman Depot. Bus Number 9-30. Bus type unknown taken at the Intharaphithak rd bus stop. Every 10 mins.

14. Route 7 bus: Sueksa Nari Witthaya School to Hua Lamphong. Bus Number 7-26. This yet another Merc O404 city bus. Taken at the Intharaphithak rd bus stop. Every 5 to 10 mins.

15. A couple of local tour buses passing the Intharaphithak rd bus stop. Type unknown.

16. This is an example of the small streets around the wong wian yai station area. This Soi connects Intharaphithak rd with the railway station. This soi is too narrow for normal cars to pass.

17. Route 82 bus: Phra Pradaeng to Sanam Luang. Bus number not shown. This is a Merc mini bus of a different type to the normal ones. Taken at the footbridge outside wong wian yai station. Every 2 to 5 mins (24 hour service)

18. This is the inbound traffic at the start of the evening peak hour. This is a stand still Jam. The white Number 57 is the rail bus to Klong San. The blue and white number 85 runs to Hua Lamphong station and can take over 1 hour just to travel the 3km from this spot. This is taken from the footbridge at Wong Wian Yai.

19. This is a shot of the traffic from the same footbridge facing the Wong Wian Yai junction. The Statue in the middle is of King Taksin from about 300 years ago. This junction is one of only a handful of traffic circles in Bangkok.

20. Now for something different:

This is the Bang Bon to Bang Khunthian Lower via Central Rama 2 Truck Bus service. In the dry season it takes about 1 hour end to end. In the Wet season this route can blow out to 3 hours due to deep mud and flooding on Bang Khunthian road. Every 15 mins (5am to 11pm).

I hope you find the pictures and vehicles shown to be of interest if you view this please post some comments and feelings about the pictures.

The Buses of Rama 2 road

Today I went out to get some pictures of my local buses that run along rama 2 road. The Buses that operate along Rama 2 road are 17,68,76,105,140,141,142, 147,169,171,172,173,529,558,976 and some truck services.

1. Route 147 Circle: Rama 2 – Dao Khanong – Bang Khae. This is bus 147-5 seen at the Kheha Thonburi (Soi 60) bus stop. Bus make unknown. Every 2 to 5 mins.

2. This is the driver’s seat of bus 147 –5. This is fairly standard for this kind of bus.

3. This is the passenger seating section of bus 147 –5 (Route 147 Bus number 5).

4. Route 141 Expressway: Samae Dum to Chulalongkorn University. This is a Merc O404 as far as I know. Every 10 mins.

5. Mahachai city to Central Rama 2 Truck service. This runs every 5 mins all day and the route is about 40 km long.

6. 24hour mini truck service operates along Rama 2 road from Dao Khanong to Kheha Thonburi. Every 10 mins.

7. Route 529: Mochit 2 to Samae Dum: Bus at holding area at Samae Dum (Panthai shrine). This is a Hino bus. Every 10 to 15 mins.

8. This is the driver’s seat of the above bus. This is fairly standard for a modern aircond bus.

9. This is the passenger seating area of the same bus.

10. Bus number 529-15 at holding area.

11. Side view of Bus 529 –15. This bus had just terminated here.

12. View of Route 529’s southern bus holding area.

13. Rear shot including engine of Bus 529 –15 the engine door is open to help cooling while running.

14. Bus route 105: Klong San to mahachai mai (new mahachai city) this is taken at the route 105 bus holding area its peak hour so all most all buses are out. Hino Non aircond BMTA 5- 40121. Every 10 mins.

15. This is the passenger area of BMTA 5- 40121

16. Route 140 Expressway: Mahachai Mai to Victory Monument Bus number 140-12 Type unknown. Taken at route 140 holding area at Mahachai Mai. Every 15 mins.

17. Route 68: Mahachai city – Sanam Luang passing the inbound stop at Mahachai Mai. This is another merc O404 city bus. Every 5 to 10 mins.

18. Route 105 Red: Mahachai Mai to Kilometer 9 via Rama 2 seen at inbound stop at Mahachai Mai. This is a Merc bus type unknown. Every 10 mins.

19: Bus number 140-12 waiting to depart at mahachai mai.

20: The passenger section of bus 140 – 12 facing the back.

21: Bus 140- 12 facing the front. Note the engine is under the floor at the front.

22: Route 140 expressway: Samae Dum to Victory Monument. Seen at Kheha Thonburi. BMTA 5- 67220 this is a Daewoo bus. Every 2 to 5 mins.

23: Route 142 expressway: Kheha Thonburi to Paknam. BMTA 3-66236 another angle on a Daewoo bus. Seen at Kheha Thonburi.(soi 60) Note: this bus will be full in about 10 stops for this spot it’s a very busy route operates from 3.30am to 11pm 7 days a week every 2 to 5 mins.

24: Route 558 expressway: Suvarnabhumi Airport to Samae Dum. BMTA 5-67174 another Daewoo bus. This was seen at Kheha Thonburi stop. This route is 70km long operates every 15 to 20 mins from 4am to 12am 7days a week.

25: Route 17: Kheha Thonburi to Victory monument seen at Kheha Thonburi This is a hino bus and will run to Ratburana peir only as per the white/red sign. The full route at peak takes around 2 and half hours one way. Every 2 to 5 mins.

26: The doorway of a Route 17 bus. They only stop of a few seconds when letting people on or off.

27: Route 172: Kheha Thonburi to Happy land. Bus no 172-10 seen at kheha thonburi. This route runs every 10 mins and takes over 3 hours to reach the other end. Bus type unknown.

28: Rear shot of a route 147 bus. This is a very bus route. This bus was seen at kheha Thonburi. Bus no 147-62. This is the same type as seen earlier.

29: Rear shot of Route 141 Expressway at Kheha thonburi this is an O404 city bus. BMTA No 5-6541.

30: Motobike taxi stand common at the Entrance to most sois on Rama 2.

I hope you find the pictures and vehicles shown to be of interest if you view this please post some comments and feelings about the pictures.

Welcome to the "Thai Mass Transport Systems Blog

Hello to all who like railways and buses etc,

Welcome to My Thai Mass Transport Systems Blog.

This Blog will be a place for me to share my images and stories of Thailand's mass transport system. It will cover all areas of Thailand and all types of mass transport from boats, buses, trains to even motorbikes.

Also interesting trips and reports from near by countries may be posted from time to time. such as from Malaysia. However most content will be about Thailand. I currently Live and work in Bangkok Thailand. My interests are in all kinds of mass transport subjects from old to modern.

So if you see this Blog please do give some positive feedback about it or its content.

Thanks for viewing my Blog welcome to my world of mass transport.

From Thai Transit