Transport operators to get Bt2 break on NGV price

The Energy Ministry has approved a reduction of Bt2 per kilogram in the price of natural gas for vehicles (NGV) for public-transport operators, to be effective by Tuesday.

The ministry has also invited the Petroleum Institute of Thailand to provide information to public-transport entrepreneurs regarding the cost of NGV and its price structure.

Norkun Sitthiphong, permanent secretary of the Energy Ministry, said the committee assigned to review the adjustment of the NGV price for public-transport vehicles agreed to reduce the price by no more than Bt2. The decision applies to public-transport trucks and passenger buses with or without air-conditioning, which were severely hit by the previous price increase.

PTT will be in charge of discounting the NGV price for this group of public-transport entrepreneurs by Tuesday.

Another group of entrepreneurs has already been awarded a price reduction. These are operators of taxis, public vans, and public buses belonging to the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority and its partners.

Also by Tuesday, the Petroleum Institute of Thailand, together with the Department of Mineral Fuels, is to explain the price structure of NGV to operators.

Suthep Liumsirijarern, director-general of the Energy Policy and Planning Office, yesterday said the ministry would propose to the Energy Policy Administration Committee on Wednesday an increase in NGV prices by 50 satang per kilogram and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) by 75 satang per kilo, according to a Cabinet resolution. In addition, the ministry will propose an increase in the contribution from petrol sales to the Oil Fund by Bt1 per litre.

Chatchai Phuaree, chairman of an association of private bus operators, said it had asked the Transport Ministry to consider an increase in bus fares to Bt7 from Bt5.50 per person in view of higher operating costs. The association wants the ministry to make a decision this month so the price increase can be effective in March.

Otherwise, the association will submit a petition to the court to increase the bus fares.