Thailand’s Ministry of Transport visited Moscow Metro yesterday, August 5, to study rail operations, digital passenger services and maintenance practices that could be adapted for the country’s railway network.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn led the Thai delegation during the visit, which followed the signing of a transport cooperation MOU between Thailand and Russia.
Phiphat and senior transport officials also toured Maryina Roshcha station and the Aminevskoye Electric Depot to study Moscow Metro’s operational systems and exchange technical expertise.
Phiphat said the discussions focused on how Moscow Metro handles large numbers of passengers while keeping services safe, reliable and cost-effective. The talks covered digital passenger services, ticketing systems, train operations and maintenance.
Moscow Metro demonstrated several cashless payment options, including bank cards, QR codes, digital devices, biometric verification and Face Pay. According to the operator, around 93% of passengers use cashless payment methods, although cash payment and staffed services remain available.
The Thai delegation also reviewed technologies aimed at improving passenger services while reducing routine workloads. These included ticket gates that accept multiple payment methods, remote customer support that allows passengers to contact station staff, and a digital assistant that provides travel information.
Officials also discussed how Moscow Metro gathers passenger feedback through QR codes before introducing new services on a wider scale. The ministry said the approach helps ensure new technologies meet passenger needs rather than being introduced simply because they are new.
The delegation also travelled on the Moscow Metro to examine its operations and onboard passenger information systems. Officials examined onboard displays showing current and next stations, journey times and interchange information.
Moscow Metro said trains can arrive as often as every 90 seconds during peak periods, made possible by coordinated scheduling, trains ready for service and regular maintenance.
State Railway of Thailand Governor Anan Phonimdaeng also discussed how Moscow Metro keeps its trains in service through regular inspections and scheduled maintenance designed to prevent breakdowns.
At the Aminevskoye Electric Depot, Russian officials outlined how they prepare trains for daily operations, inspect equipment and manage maintenance schedules across the fleet.
Moscow Metro currently operates nearly 7,000 rail cars, while the depot supports 31 eight-car trainsets. During peak hours, 28 trainsets are in service while the remaining three undergo inspection and maintenance.
Russian officials also outlined a maintenance model that keeps manufacturers responsible for servicing trains after they enter service. Using mileage and performance data, parts are repaired or replaced before they fail to reduce breakdowns and improve reliability.
The Ministry of Transport said the approach could help Thailand improve train reliability and assess the full cost of buying and maintaining trains over their service life.
The visit forms part of a wider transport cooperation agreement between Thailand and Russia. The Ministry of Transport said both sides will continue exploring ways to improve rail services, including station technology, ticketing systems, train maintenance and staff training.
The story Thailand explores Moscow Metro’s formula for reliable rail services as seen on Thaiger News.
