Songkhla monorail wins Cabinet approval in principle

Thailand's Cabinet has given in-principle approval for a 12.54-kilometre monorail in Songkhla province, authorising the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) to operate the proposed system.

The decision, approved on Wednesday, August 5, concerns a draft royal decree put forward by the Transport Ministry. The project is intended to reduce traffic congestion, connect local transport services and support economic activity across southern Thailand.

Deputy government spokesperson Ploythalay Laksameesaengjan said the system is also expected to strengthen investor confidence in the region.

Three interchange points planned

Khlong Wa station is set to become the project's central facility, housing the depot and maintenance centre for the monorail fleet. It will also serve as a major interchange with other transport services.

Two further hubs are planned along the route. Kho Hong station will cater for passengers from nearby communities and the university area, while a third interchange, known as Minivan Station, is intended for travellers arriving from outlying districts and neighbouring provinces.

The flexible single-rail system was selected as suitable for the area's existing urban layout. Its route is designed to cover major economic areas and locations with high passenger demand.

Park-and-ride facilities, along with pick-up and drop-off areas, are included in the design. The aim is to persuade motorists to leave their cars and use public transport instead, easing pressure on local roads.

Further reviews before construction

The Cabinet has asked the Office of the Council of State to examine the draft decree before other agencies take the next steps. The Transport Ministry must also consider recommendations from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).

The Budget Bureau will conduct a further review, while the Interior Ministry has been instructed to take account of the NESDC's recommendations.

The proposal has already been approved by the MRTA board and is aligned with the transport master plan and a resolution of the Land Traffic Management Commission. The commission said the monorail would bring long-term economic benefits and improve traffic management.

The Transport Ministry and MRTA will now speed up site surveys and prepare detailed tender documents, with construction intended to remain on its planned timetable.

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7 August 2026