Interprovincial bus operator rejigs operations to boost finances

Sorapong Paitoonphong, director general of the Department of Rail Transport, said in his capacity as Transport Co’s president that an action plan and key performance indicators had been set up to rebuild the company’s finances, so it does not become a burden on the government.
The plan is split into three phases: finding skilled people to manage the properties, including 472 buses that require maintenance, boosting revenue without increasing fares, and commercialising its four depots – Ekamai, Fai Chai junction and Pinklao in Bangkok as well as the one in Chonburi province.
Manoch Sai Chuto, acting director of Transport Company, said it will begin developing the three-rai area near the Fai Chai junction, which will also include a senior care centre, healthcare centre and residential buildings.
The seven-rai Ekamai Bus Terminal will also be developed. The plan, initially proposed last year to the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Plan, has been approved by the Transport Ministry and is waiting to pull in private investment.