Policy recommendations to improve people's quality of life in the social service business of the State Railway of Thailand: A case study of Chumphon Station
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Abstract
This study aims to examine the state of train service and the factors affecting the improvement of people's quality of life through train service. It also assesses the impact of social train service on people's quality of life. This study aims to propose guidelines for developing social train service models that respond to the principle of equality in service access. It also examines successful social train service models in foreign countries and uses them as a comparative guideline for developing social mass transit policies in Thailand. The research employed a documentary analysis method based on conceptual frameworks including Social Public Service, Public Service Motivation (PSM), Equity of Access, Social Fare, and Grassroots Development. The findings indicate that rail services at Chumphon Station significantly contribute to reducing social and spatial inequalities, especially among vulnerable populations, by lowering travel costs and increasing access to education, healthcare, and employment. However, challenges remain in service frequency, accessibility, and overall service quality. Developmental recommendations include increasing train frequency, implementing universal design principles in station infrastructure, creating flexible and fair fare systems, fostering community participation, and transforming the station into a local economic hub. Additionally, international examples—such as Estonia’s free rail policy, India’s low-cost rail system, and the UK’s welfare ticketing scheme—offer valuable insights for enhancing Thailand’s social rail services. These findings underscore that public transport development is not solely a matter of infrastructure but a vital mechanism for promoting equity, improving quality of life, and fostering sustainable grassroots development.
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