The Mass Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) launched and quickly suspended a new, free shuttle bus service along the Purple Line route in Nonthaburi on Monday amid reports of a conflict with local songtaew operators.
The free shuttle briefly operated between Khlong Bang Phai station, Talad Bang Yai station, Khlong Thanon Soi and Kaeo In Road, improving connectivity for rail passengers.
The pilot service launched on Monday morning but was suspended in mid-afternoon after local residents reported seeing operators of local songtaews, open-air pickup taxis, stopping to speak with the shuttle bus driver.
Until Monday's launch of the free shuttle, songtaews had been the regular option for commuters changing trains in the area.
The incident was shared online, and drew mixed opinions.
Supporters of the MRTA service said that commuters should have access to better transport options, to improve their quality of life.
Some said songtaew locations and schedules were often difficult to pinpoint, making trip planning a challenge, and they were often overcrowded.
Others argued that the free shuttle would adversely affect songtaew operators' incomes. Many operate under transport concessions.
At 3pm on Monday, the MRTA announced the suspension of the pilot shuttle service, but it did not clearly explain why.
It said it was coordinating with relevant authorities to review the appropriateness of the route before considering further operations.
The MRTA has been operating a free shuttle bus connecting Thailand Cultural Centre station, Phra Ram 9 station and the MRTA Office on Rama 9 road, since March last year.
