Bangkok Metro
The Bangkok Metro is Bangkok's underground metro system. It was constructed by the Bangkok Metro Co. Ltd (BMCL) under the direction of the Metropolitan Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA). The Bangkok Metro is distinct from the elevated Bangkok Skytrain.Construction of the first line, officially known as the Chaloem Ratchamongkorn Line ("Celebration of Royal Auspice") but informally as the Blue Line, started in 1999. Delayed multiple times, the line finally opened for limited public trial on April 13, 2004, and had its official opening on July 3, 2004. The 21 kilometer, 18 station line presently runs from Bang Sue to Hualamphong, with interchanges to the Skytrain at Silom/Saladaeng, Sukhumvit/Asok and Chatuchak/Mo Chit. The line's capacity is 80,000 people in each direction each hour. Extensions north to Charansanitwongse and Tha Phra and south to Bang Khae are planned, possibly joined up as a ring in the future.
On July 3 2004 the first line was officially opened at 19:19 local time by King Rama IX and Queen Sirikit. Within 30 minutes, riders reported that the system was filled to capacity.
Other lines being planned include the Orange Line (Bang Kapi – Samsen) and the Purple Line (Bangyai – Phra Nanklao – Bangsue). Construction will start in 2005 at the earliest.Opening