Transport Thailand's Railway Expansion: A 297.9 Billion Baht Endeavour

[snoop1130]

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Thailand is embarking on a transformative journey with the second phase of its ambitious double-track railway development project. Aiming to span 1,249 kilometres, this initiative comes with a hefty price tag of 297.9 billion baht.

 

Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, is at the helm of this significant venture. He assures that the project will revolutionise the country’s transport infrastructure by reducing travel times by up to 30% and improving punctuality, thanks to the elimination of train crossing delays.

 

Furthermore, the plan promises to bolster safety, reduce accidents, and cut logistical costs. It sets out to provide more efficient, affordable, and safe travel options, marking a pivotal shift in Thailand’s transportation landscape. “This project will modernise Thailand’s transport infrastructure, cementing the country’s status as a key transportation hub in Southeast Asia,” Suriya stated confidently.

 

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has submitted its proposal to the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), which will base its route priorities on passenger and freight demand, track capacity, economic viability, and national policy alignment. Additionally, factors like passenger forecasts and connectivity with other networks play a role.

 

Top Priority Routes:

 

High on the agenda is the 321-kilometre Surat Thani–Hat Yai–Songkhla route, demanding an investment of 66.27 billion baht. Next is the 218-kilometre Pak Nam Pho–Den Chai route at 81.14 billion baht, followed by the 168-kilometre Chumphon–Surat Thani route, expected to require 30.42 billion baht.

 

Medium-Priority Routes:

 

The 308-kilometre Jira Junction–Ubon Ratchathani route comes in at 44.1 billion baht, and the 189-kilometre Den Chai–Chiang Mai route stands at 68.22 billion baht.

 

Lower Priority:

 

The less pressing 45-kilometre Hat Yai–Padang Besar section is marked at 7.77 billion baht.

 

In response to the NESDC's feedback, the SRT is refining its forecasts on passenger and freight volumes, and adjusting plans related to train operations and track capacity. They’ve also crafted a revenue-generating strategy targeting major railway stations and container yards.

 

A paramount objective of this phase is to shift freight transport from roads to rails, aiming to alleviate congestion and curb environmental impact. Suriya emphasised that it’s not only about enhancing passenger travel but also about reinvigorating freight logistics to boost Thailand’s economic competitiveness on the global stage.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-24

 

 

[mfd101]

3 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

 

A paramount objective of this phase is to shift freight transport from roads to rails, aiming to alleviate congestion and curb environmental impact.

Good. Can't wait.