Low-income public transport users in Thailand will be able to enjoy free bus and rail services for another six months, it has been announced.

The government has announced that the scheme, which has been running since 2008, will be extended to July 31st 2015.

Government spokesperson Yongyuth Mayalarp revealed the cabinet has asked the Budget Bureau to compensate the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority 1,589 million baht, and the State Railway of Thailand 524 million baht, for the free services.

The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority provides free bus rides on 800 of its ordinary buses covering 73 routes per day. Meanwhile, the State Railway of Thailand offers passengers the chance to ride for free in third-class carriages on 164 short-haul trains and eight long-haul ones.  

According to the spokesperson, the government is hoping the initiative will help lower-income individuals get from A to B, with a focus on older people and students.