The Mass Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) suspended a new, free shuttle bus service along the Purple Line route in Nonthaburi after just a few hours on Monday after 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 service launched on Monday morning but was suspended mid-afternoon after local residents reported seeing operators of local songtaews 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 affect songtaew operators' incomes.
At 3pm on Monday, the MRTA announced the suspension of the pilot shuttle service, but it did not clearly explain why.
