Thailand's MRTA Asks for Approval for New Bangkok Route on the Orange Line

The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) has officially asked the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to allow it to use particular areas for building the Orange Line's western route. This new route plan is meant to link Bang Khun Non and Min Buri.

Details of the Orange Line MRT project were discussed earlier this week. This included MRTA, the builder, and the party that has been granted the project's rights. Tawatchai Napasaksri, who leads BMA’s Public Works Department, shared the information.

The proposed route starts from Sutthawat Road and it stretches along Siriraj Road. From there, it goes under the Chao Phraya River and then along Ratchadamnoen Road. The route will end at Esplanade Cineplex Ratchadapisek and connect with the Orange Line's eastern route. Most of the construction needs will be carried out underground, beneath existing roads and walkways.

The construction is likely to affect the forest park on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road and the area outside City Hall II in Din Daeng. Due to the construction of entry and exit points, some trees may need to be removed and walkover bridges may have to be rearranged.

Tawatchai shared that MRTA plans to meet with the Departments of Drainage and Sewerage, Traffic and Transport, and Environment to explain the project's nitty-gritty. This will lead to a group meeting to pin down the details of the land transfer needed for construction. As mentioned in MRTA’s communication, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) will be signed to transfer the land within 120 days, starting from August 1, Tawatchai said.

He further stated that the parties involved must maintain the construction areas and limit harmful impacts on the residents throughout the five-year project.

“After the project is done, they should restore roads and sidewalks to how they were before. Any trees that were removed should be replanted, and the MRTA must oversee the drainage systems to prevent any flooding.”

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-- 2024-08-08

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