The New Skytrain

[lomatopo]

Can anyone comment on the accuracy of this report:

MRTA set to launch test run of Purple Line by late next year

BANGKOK, 30 May 2014 (NNT) - The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) is pushing for a test run of its new Purple Line in December 2015, or one year ahead of schedule.

http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/730276-mrta-set-to-launch-test-run-of-purple-line-by-late-next-year/

Understanding that a "test run" may mean something wholly different from regular service.

[Lakegeneve]

Can anyone comment on the accuracy of this report:

MRTA set to launch test run of Purple Line by late next year

BANGKOK, 30 May 2014 (NNT) - The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) is pushing for a test run of its new Purple Line in December 2015, or one year ahead of schedule.

http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/730276-mrta-set-to-launch-test-run-of-purple-line-by-late-next-year/

Understanding that a "test run" may mean something wholly different from regular service.

I answered your query there as follows;

Rolling stock contract was done last Nov (21, 3 car trains) by the BMCL with Hitachi (E&S) and JR East (Tokyu Car). At that time it was said it would take 40 months to deliver which meant a late 2017 opening. Recently, this was changed to a 24 month delivery timeframe for a mid 2016.

I doubt that a late 2015 opening is achievable given that the original opening date of early 2015 was pushed back 1 year to early 2016 after the 2011 floods. The current aim appears to be to start testing in Dec 2015. Let's see if that is possible....but do note Crossey's post #289 as he has the best insight.

The reality is that the opening date has gone from mid to late 2016 12 months ago to mid 2017, back to 2016 and now supposedly late 2015; all in the year! The opening date has been bouncing around more than a kangaroo! given that 90% of the civil works are done we really just have to wait and see how quickly Hitachi can install the E&S (most likely very quickly) and when the rolling stock will be delivered - bearing in mind that no rolling stock has been delivered on time. Though, this is the first time that Japanese stock will be used for a BKK metro line.

The 1.2 km ext of the Blue Line to Tao Poon interchange station is part of the Purple Line contract. Originally, back in 2010, the aim was for this to open in early 2014, a year before the Purple Line opened. From what I understand it is still the intention to open this ext some time prior to the Purple Line opening. Obviously, it makes a lot of sense to do so. I'd hazard a guess that this ext could open by mid 2015 but knowing how things get done and Crossey's info it seems that it won't.

Edited May 31, 2014 by Lakegeneve

[Lakegeneve]

C) LINES CURRENTLY UNDER TENDER

8) BTS Dark Green line (northern ext) (Original completion date was 2008!).

a) Mo Chit to Saphan Mai ext ( MRTA): 11.4km, 11 stations,

b ) Saphan Mai to Kukot/Lam Lukka rd: 6.8km, 5 stations .

Tender by April with contracts to be signed in October. Website: http://www.mrta-greenline.net/

The BTS Dark Green line tender was due to be decided by mid April but some of the bidders complained about the restritive requirements for bidders in the TOR. THus, the TOR has been changed and the new bid deadline is 24 May.

This whole tender has been further delayed another 2-3 months due to the change of administration.

[BookMan]

Can anyone comment on the accuracy of this report:

MRTA set to launch test run of Purple Line by late next year

BANGKOK, 30 May 2014 (NNT) - The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) is pushing for a test run of its new Purple Line in December 2015, or one year ahead of schedule.

http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/730276-mrta-set-to-launch-test-run-of-purple-line-by-late-next-year/

Understanding that a "test run" may mean something wholly different from regular service.

I answered your query there as follows;

Rolling stock contract was done last Nov (21, 3 car trains) by the BMCL with Hitachi (E&S) and JR East (Tokyu Car). At that time it was said it would take 40 months to deliver which meant a late 2017 opening. Recently, this was changed to a 24 month delivery timeframe for a mid 2016.

I doubt that a late 2015 opening is achievable given that the original opening date of early 2015 was pushed back 1 year to early 2016 after the 2011 floods. The current aim appears to be to start testing in Dec 2015. Let's see if that is possible....but do note Crossey's post #289 as he has the best insight.

The reality is that the opening date has gone from mid to late 2016 12 months ago to mid 2017, back to 2016 and now supposedly late 2015; all in the year! The opening date has been bouncing around more than a kangaroo! given that 90% of the civil works are done we really just have to wait and see how quickly Hitachi can install the E&S (most likely very quickly) and when the rolling stock will be delivered - bearing in mind that no rolling stock has been delivered on time. Though, this is the first time that Japanese stock will be used for a BKK metro line.

The 1.2 km ext of the Blue Line to Tao Poon interchange station is part of the Purple Line contract. Originally, back in 2010, the aim was for this to open in early 2014, a year before the Purple Line opened. From what I understand it is still the intention to open this ext some time prior to the Purple Line opening. Obviously, it makes a lot of sense to do so. I'd hazard a guess that this ext could open by mid 2015 but knowing how things get done and Crossey's info it seems that it won't.

Lakegeneve, do you know if the rolling stock for each color BTS line is compatible with other color lines?

[Lakegeneve]

Lakegeneve, do you know if the rolling stock for each color BTS line is compatible with other color lines?

You need to clarify your query a little pls.

The BTS has two lines which use two different brands of rolling stock (Siemens and CSR) which are obviously compatible on both lines (though there has been some problems with the CSR stock on the Silom line after the signalling system was changed from a closed Siemens system to an open Bombadier system).

The MRT Subway/Blue line also uses Siemens rolling stock and a Siemens signalling system.

As both the BTS and MRT use a third rail (750V DC) for power and Siemens rolling stock (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siemens_Modular_Metro), conceivably rolling stock could be used on the other system syatem configuration changes were made to the rolling stock and test runs were completed. Don't ask me the exact technical requirements, others will have a better idea.

The MRT Purple Line which BMCL (operator of the subway/blue line) has won the contract to run will be using for the first time in BKK, Japanese rolling stock. This will be supplied by JR East (Tokyu designs) and use a Hitachi signalling system.

It would be stupid not to ensure that all MRT lines have compatible signalling systems given the potential for future integration and interconnection. However, all lines are being built as stand alone lines to be run by multiple operators (under the flawed multiple private concessionaire system) and some lines have been changed from heavy rail to monorail (Yellow & Pink)

Edited June 9, 2014 by Lakegeneve

[Lakegeneve]

C) LINES CURRENTLY UNDER TENDER

8) BTS Dark Green line (northern ext) (Original completion date was 2008!).

a) Mo Chit to Saphan Mai ext ( MRTA): 11.4km, 11 stations,

Saphan Mai to Kukot/Lam Lukka rd: 6.8km, 5 stations .

Tender by April with contracts to be signed in October. Website: http://www.mrta-greenline.net/

D) LINES/EXTS TO BE TENDERED IN 2014?

9) MRTA Orange Line: 36km, 29 stations (22 underground, 7 elevated) - . Phase 1 TCC (current Thai Cultural Center station) to Minburi (tender end of 2014, Open 2019).

Website: http://www.mrta-orangeline.net/

10) MRTA Pink Line (monorail): Khae Rai intersection to Miniburi via Pakred, Chaeng Wattana & Ram Inthra 36km, 30 stations. (should be heavy rail). http://www.mrta.co.th/pinkline/index.html

11) MRTA Yellow Line (Monorail): 30.4km, 21 stations. Phase 1 Latphrao to Hua Mark. (was previously heavy rail underground) http://www.mrta-yellowline.com/

12) Airport Rail Link (ARL) extension from Phayathai to Bangsue to Don Meaung (DMK): 21.8km, 5 stations

Note: This should be read in the context of what is stated in post #290- 2 pages back

It appears that the Junta is going to proceed with the 10 line plan (it is a bipartisan plan after all!) after being briefed by OTP. They have been spruiking up new road projects but thankfully not completely forgotton about the importance of a good metro network.

As part of their proposed 3 trillion baht plan they will thankfully continue with metro expansion (delayed in the last year due to the political chaos). (PTs 2.2 trillion seemed a lot but take away 800 billion for HSR lines and then basically double that amount with new projects). They will continue funding the following new lines in the near term;

1) BTS ext Mo Chit to Lam Lukka (already under a delayed tender)

2) MRTA Pink Line monorail,

3) MRTA Orange line,

4) MRTA Yellow line monorail,

5) SRT Light Red line extension from Bang Sue to Hua Mark AND SRT Dark Red Line ext from Bang Sue to Hualamphong

6) ARL ext from Phaya Thai to DMK Airport

Remember that NO new lines were tendered during PTs 3 yr term in govt).

Analysis:

Pink & Yellow

The MRTA is still not ready to proceed with the delayed Pink line monorail (2013 tender) nor the Yellow line monorail which was previously to be scheduled by the end of 2014 due to needing to chose rolling stock first which will dictate the final design. (Different monorail stock require different track design). I would not expect either of these line to be tendered by the end of the year. I'll note again that both of these lines were originally planned to be heavy rail lines (ie. as the current subway/BTS) but were stupidly changed to reduce cost (and due to lobbying by a couple of monorail companies). (Sophon also stated at one stage 10 days ago that the Pink Line was not necessary!)

SRT Red lines

The SRT Red Line extensions are a mixed bag. The positive is to tender the Dark Red Line ext from Bang Sue to Hualamphong (this line will eventually be extended to WWY & Mahachai) well before the current construction of the Dark Red line is complete. I can't really see the SRT getting a tender for this ext together before early next year.

The negative is the ongoing stupidity of the plan to extend the Light Red line to run adjacent to and follow the ARL line!!! This makes no sense at all and is yet another example of the lack of coordination by different agencies having their own plans - though the Master Plan does integrate them all. Basically, you'll end up with a narrow gauge SRT line running exactly alongside the standard gauge ARL line - they will even have different stations!!!

The SRT Light Red line has been open for nearly 2 years now. It only runs 6 services a day from Bang Bon to Taling Chan! The line cannot be completed until the final section to Bang Sue is built which is years away. The SRT has not ordered rolling stock for this line and the plan to electrify it is awaiting funds. A further 10km extension west to Salaya is of great demand as is the spur line to Thonburi station (which should really be foregone in favour of extending the Orange line to as was the original plan). The remedy would be to convert this line to standard gauge and electrify it. Then, extend the ARL City Line to Bang Sue where it would then run on the Light Red line. You would eventually end up with a SRTET ARL City Line running from Salaya via Bang Sue & Phaya Thai to the Airport.

One line is all that is needed, not duplication with two different lines!

Orange & ARL ext to DMK

Some redesign work was required on the Orange line for a few stations where residents objected to the large station footprint (read compulsory acquisition of land and missing out on increased land prices) which has mainly been done. This line should be ready to be tendered soon and could have a contract signed by the end of the year if there are no more silly delays by the MRTA.

The ARL ext is beyond urgent. It was said 2 years ago by the then Minister that it was a priority after the 2 airport policy was decided upon in April 2012. Design work is all done save for a potential modifications to integrate with the Dark Red line (which itself had some design modifications to integrate with the ARL ext). A tender was definite by mid 2013, then before the end of 2013. Realistically, this should be able to be tendered by the end of 2014 with a 4 year construction time frame.

In summary, it seems that the BTS ext will be tendered by Sept. I would hazard a guess that there is a good chance that the Orange Line and ARL ext could be tendered by the end of 2014 if the MRT & SRT & MOT can finalise the respective tenders. That probably would not be such a bad outcome after the delays of the last 18 months and that is has been 3 years since a line/ext was last tendered (the BTS ext from Bearing to Samut Prakhan).

We'll have to wait and see........

Edited June 16, 2014 by Lakegeneve

[ExpatOilWorker]

This is a question about the past an mostly related to the MRT.

A friend of mine is involved in building the Qatar subway. They use tunnel boring machines similar to what was done with the MRT, but each station is excavated in large pits from surface, even though they are building in solid and stable lime stone. As far as I remember, no ground was broken during the construction of the MRT, except from the current entry/exit points and a few ventilation towers.

How was it possible to construct the stations underground in Bangkoks soggy soil? Did they use freezing?

[David48]

This is more a post for Lakegeneve.

Rail technology leader Bombardier Transportation today presented the first BOMBARDIER FLEXITY 2 tram for the Gold Coast Light Rail system.

On the Gold Coast, Australia, a new light rail has been installed and due to open this month.

[ozsamurai]

1) BTS ext Mo Chit to Lam Lukka (already under a delayed tender)

What is the current status of this line in particular can you elaborate? It seems not many will give a straight answer, if there is one!

Oz

[tw25rw]

This is more a post for Lakegeneve.

Rail technology leader Bombardier Transportation today presented the first BOMBARDIER FLEXITY 2 tram for the Gold Coast Light Rail system.

On the Gold Coast, Australia, a new light rail has been installed and due to open this month.

I have often thought those lines in Bangkok with the creaky, over crowded trains would be a good place to run a light rail service. Crossings might be a problem , but they could install overpasses or elevate the line in places.

[Lakegeneve]

1) BTS ext Mo Chit to Lam Lukka (already under a delayed tender)

What is the current status of this line in particular can you elaborate? It seems not many will give a straight answer, if there is one!

Oz

I'll try to give a simplified summary of what has been a messy and dysfunctional process. An excellent case stuyd of how NOT to implement major infrastructure projects....

A little history:

When the BTS opened in Dec 1999, this extension was one of the 3 original extensions planned (Silom cross river to WWY & Petchkasem rd, Silom spur line down Narithiwat rd & Rama 3 -the current BRT). It was originally planned to be operational by 2008!

At the 2005 election, both major parties promised essentially the same metro plan (being the OTP plan). TRT promised that this extension would be constructed by late 2008. Some political games where then played as the TRT wanted to nationalise the BTSC as part of a power game with the Democrats. By the coup of Sept 2009, a tender had not even been drafted. (Indeed none of the 10 lines from the 05 election had been tendered of work started though ALL were promised to be completed by 2009/10)

Subsequent govts;

the coup govt,

the PPP govt elected in Dec 2007 (PM Samak promised in March/April 08 to build all lines in 2 years!!! See post #127, pg 6 regarding Samaks Gold Ring Line proposal),

the Dem/BJT coalition which came to power in late 2008,

and the PTP govt (elected mid 2011) all promised every year that this extension would commence work "the next year".

There was also some significant delay during 2012/early 2013 as the MRTA had sought to locate the depot on Airforce land adjacent to DMK airport but the airforce did not allow this. The MRTA also decided to consolidate two BTS north extensions (Mo Chit to Saphan Mai & the later Spahan Mai to Lam Lukka) into the one bidding process, now MO Chit to Khoo Khut.

Finally! A tender......(but even then more delays...)

The MRTA subsequently finally did finalise the tender by the end of last year just when the political protest/turmoil was intensifying, thereafter parliament was subsequently dissolved in early Dec resulting in all transport infrastructure funding bills lapsing.

The MRTA finally released the tender in Jan with a deadline for bids in mid April after . However, bidders were concerned regarding a restrictive aspect of bidder qualification, thus the tender was extended until 25 May (An unfortaunte date as it turns out). The coup of 24 May suspended the tender process. Two weeks ago the military administration confirmed that this extension would be funded & proceed this year.

The current timeline

The MRTA has indicated a new tender deadline of mid September with a view towards contracts being signed by the end of the year and work commencing early next year! We'll have to wait and see if that timeframe is followed. It is a step by step process; tender is released, successful bidders announced, contracts signed, work starts, construction delays and then finally a finish. (Remember there was a 2.5 yr delay on the Dark Red line from when contracts where signed until work finally started due to a contract dispute).

People purchased new homes and condos on Phaholyothin rd back in the early 00s on the basis that this extension would be open by 2008! Basically, it will open 10 years late due to poor planning framework and political dysfunction. Hopefully, this provides some clarity for you in the messy, confused world of BKK metro expansion.

I have to emphasis that this is a simplified summary!

[Lakegeneve]

This is more a post for Lakegeneve.

Rail technology leader Bombardier Transportation today presented the first BOMBARDIER FLEXITY 2 tram for the Gold Coast Light Rail system.

On the Gold Coast, Australia, a new light rail has been installed and due to open this month.

Yes I have been following it a little. It will finally start next Sunday, 20 July after nearly 6 months of testing the trams on the line. http://www.goldlinq.com.au/

The line has been very controversial for what is a highly car dependent city with construction affecting some business in the middle of Surfers Paradise. However, it will be hugely successful and an extension to link with the Gold Coast Railway line is already planned to start work next year.

Of note is that these are the only trams in the world to have purpose built storage space for surf boards!!!

[Lakegeneve]

This is more a post for Lakegeneve.

Rail technology leader Bombardier Transportation today presented the first BOMBARDIER FLEXITY 2 tram for the Gold Coast Light Rail system.

On the Gold Coast, Australia, a new light rail has been installed and due to open this month.

I have often thought those lines in Bangkok with the creaky, over crowded trains would be a good place to run a light rail service. Crossings might be a problem , but they could install overpasses or elevate the line in places.

Indeed Bangkok used to have a decent tram system primarily around Chinatown and Rattanakosin Island up until the late 60s, http://2bangkok.com/2bangkok-tram-index.html (some great pics here). You can still see trams lines in some roads in chinatown.

Like many cities, Bangkok made the terrible mistake of ripping up the lines and discontinuing trams. The costs of rebuilding such lines and networks as many cities are currently doing is in the billions. Bangkok is perfect for at grade lightrail network in some locations given that it is flat (Rattanakosin Island area, small links with the BTS/MRT lines and Chinatown). eg. the previously planned elevated Chula Monorail would have been perfect as a lightrail line (see post #155, pg 7). If well designed, some wonderful pedestrian and outdoor spaces free of vehicles could also be created.

Unfortunately, most decisions makers don't have any idea of what is a good integrated urban transport planning policy framework beyond making quick money during the term of their political office. Decision makers also never use public transport so they have no idea of anything at the streetscape level beyond their comfortable vehicle. Due to lobbying and corruption, the only lightrail planned is as monorails which have gained policy commitment to such an extent that we have even seen two heavy rail lines changed to monorail (Pink and Yellow) and two other lines proposed (Brown and Grey) planned as monorails when they should be heavy rail, in my view. (#173, pg7 for a map & info on the Grey line).

Two loop monorails are also planned for the Bang Sue and Makkasan railyard redevelopments, both of these could easily be tram lightrails though a monorail is also suitable for this purpose.

[doctorproc156]

This is more a post for Lakegeneve.

Rail technology leader Bombardier Transportation today presented the first BOMBARDIER FLEXITY 2 tram for the Gold Coast Light Rail system.

On the Gold Coast, Australia, a new light rail has been installed and due to open this month.

I have often thought those lines in Bangkok with the creaky, over crowded trains would be a good place to run a light rail service. Crossings might be a problem , but they could install overpasses or elevate the line in places.

Indeed Bangkok used to have a decent tram system primarily around Chinatown and Rattanakosin Island up until the late 60s, http://2bangkok.com/2bangkok-tram-index.html (some great pics here). You can still see trams lines in some roads in chinatown.

Like many cities, Bangkok made the terrible mistake of ripping up the lines and discontinuing trams. The costs of rebuilding such lines and networks as many cities are currently doing is in the billions. Bangkok is perfect for at grade lightrail network in some locations given that it is flat (Rattanakosin Island area, small links with the BTS/MRT lines and Chinatown). eg. the previously planned elevated Chula Monorail would have been perfect as a lightrail line (see post #155, pg 7). If well designed, some wonderful pedestrian and outdoor spaces free of vehicles could also be created.

Unfortunately, most decisions makers don't have any idea of what is a good integrated urban transport planning policy framework beyond making quick money during the term of their political office. Decision makers also never use public transport so they have no idea of anything at the streetscape level beyond their comfortable vehicle. Due to lobbying and corruption, the only lightrail planned is as monorails which have gained policy commitment to such an extent that we have even seen two heavy rail lines changed to monorail (Pink and Yellow) and two other lines proposed (Brown and Grey) planned as monorails when they should be heavy rail, in my view. (#173, pg7 for a map & info on the Grey line).

Two loop monorails are also planned for the Bang Sue and Makkasan railyard redevelopments, both of these could easily be tram lightrails though a monorail is also suitable for this purpose.

The yellow line being changed to monorail from an MRT system is the dumbest thing I have ever heard. Almost as dumb as connecting stations having different names.

[Lakegeneve]

Purple Line update:

The Taopoon interchange station construction is coming along nicely (pics credits to Khun Chainarai on SSC).

(You can view Crossy's pics of the platform level from last Dec, #274, pg11)

Street level looking south (junction of Phracharat rd)

Blue Line station (W-E) is lower level, Purple line(N-S) station is upper level

And here is a video of other stations along the line, including Klong Bang Phai Station at the other end of the line where the Depot is also located

You can read back to the posts on the previous page regarding when the Purple Line may open.

Edited July 17, 2014 by Lakegeneve

[ExpatOilWorker]

Time to get started folks: http://www.transitmix.net/map/31733

[RAZZELL]

Is there a link with an up-to-date map of the bts/mrt/airport link with routes and estimated timescales for completion?

RAZZ

[Lakegeneve]

Is there a link with an up-to-date map of the bts/mrt/airport link with routes and estimated timescales for completion?

RAZZ

Ummmm......did you read the previous page in this thread? All the info is there ..........

You can then ask any query should you require any clarification regarding a specific line or issue.

[robblok]

Nice work if they now worked a bit harder in returning the roads to the cars much annoyance would have been spared us. At some point we had 3 lanes again and then they broke them open again. At the end of the line a choke point exists but nothing has been done. For those of us living here and traveling it often its is really bad. They should think more of the road users, especially near the end of the line the trucking line to the south is located the bottle neck there should be dealt with quickly but they don't. Its nice to have a BTS int he future but I am still skeptical as to the speed compared even to a normal car.

I should know I drive a car and a bike along its path quite often I am not sure if much will be won by this speed wise.. and getting people out of their cars... i have yet to see this happen. In BKK it works as it is far more crowded. here we are talking a road with 5 lanes often on each side.. not a crowded BKK road. We have been inconvenienced for a long time by this thing. All I ask is for them to work faster in removing bottle necks and countering the traffic jams this project causes. Some simple measures near the end terminal could be taken could be done in a week or less to really help people out.

[Lakegeneve]

I'm avoiding doing the normal 6 monthly update as everything has been in a bit of a flux since the coup (well for 7 months prior to that as well) with some slightly differing versions of what will proceed next.

However, basically the following is planned to be funded by the NCPO;

1. BTS Green Line: Mochit - Saphan mai - Khoo Khot. 58.878 Billion Baht
2. MRTA Pink Monorail: Kae Rai - Chaeng Watthana - Ram Indra - Minburi. 58.303 Billion
3. MRTA Orange Line Subway: Thailand Cultural center - Minburi (Phase 1). 110.325 Billion
4. MRTA Yellow Monorail: Lad Phrao - Sri Nakharin - Thepharak - Samrong at 56.110 Billion
5. SRT Dark Red line extension: Rangsit to Thammsart University. 5.447 Billion
6. SRTET Airport Link extension: Phayathai to Donmueang via Bangsue central at 28.440 Billion
7. SRT Light/Dark Red Red line extension: Bangsue to Hua Lamphong and Bangsue to Hua Mark via Phayathai. 44.712 Billion

( I really hope that #7 doesn't proceed on the Hua Mark section as it stupidly duplicates the ARL Cityline)

BTSC has provided a little snapshot update on their site;

Realistically my suggested tender timeline is as follows -

ASAP
1) BTS Light Green line ext (new deadline is 30 Sept - refers to previous posts)
Late 2014/early 2015
2) Orange Line
3) ARL ext
Mid 2015
4) Pink Line
5) Yellow Line (Phase 1)
Early 2016
6) Dark Red line ext north
7) Light Red line ext - cancel the stupid thing

By early 2016 the MRTA should also be tendering;
8) Purple Line southern ext
9) Blue Line west extension (Assuming that it is approved)

On the BMA side we may have;
10) BTS Dark Green line ext from Bang Wah to Taling Chan (under study) - mid to late 2015 tender?
11) BMA Grey line (under study - late 2015 to early 2016 tender?

If half of #1-#6 happens by the end of the term of the NCPO (current parliament) before the OCt 2015 elections, then we will be doing very well.

Edited August 20, 2014 by Lakegeneve

[eeeya]

This is more a post for Lakegeneve.

Rail technology leader Bombardier Transportation today presented the first BOMBARDIER FLEXITY 2 tram for the Gold Coast Light Rail system.

On the Gold Coast, Australia, a new light rail has been installed and due to open this month.

Yes I have been following it a little. It will finally start next Sunday, 20 July after nearly 6 months of testing the trams on the line. http://www.goldlinq.com.au/

The line has been very controversial for what is a highly car dependent city with construction affecting some business in the middle of Surfers Paradise. However, it will be hugely successful and an extension to link with the Gold Coast Railway line is already planned to start work next year.

Of note is that these are the only trams in the world to have purpose built storage space for surf boards!!!

that blokes no surfer, look how skinny and white he is and those shorts!

[doctorproc156]

Any word on the off shoot from Udom suk down Bangna-Trat and ending up at Suvharnabhumi?

[Lakegeneve]

Any word on the off shoot from Udom suk down Bangna-Trat and ending up at Suvharnabhumi?

I cannot really add anything more to what I wrote some time back in response to your earlier query, http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/406991-the-new-skytrain/page-6 post #147

Once the Paknam ext opens in 2016/17, then expect the last phase of the east exts to be built next, the 7km 4 station extension. Even the short BTS west ext will need to be built first.

Given the delays in tenders from last year (12-18 months) due ot the political turmoil and the subsequent coup, and the delays with the Phase 2 expansion of the airport; I'd suggest that this spur line will be more likely to start in the mid 202 than the early 20s as previously suggested.

However, the reality is that even if the above suggested tender list all gets started by 2018 there are still a bunch of lines and extensions (eg. Yellow Phase 2, Orange Phase 2, Dark Red ext to Mahachai etc) which will be a high priority than this spur line.

I recently updated the extension table on wiki with new dates. For this spur line I put 2029, obviously that is a date you won't like and hopefully it will be sooner. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BTS_Skytrain#Silom_Line.2C_South

Govts and priorities can and will change............

[IsaanUSA]

I can't read Thai from the newspapers. People seem to be mentioning you will have to get off the BTS train at Bearing, and walk to a different BTS train to go to Samut Prakan because it will be operated by a different agency/company. Can you clarify that for us?

[Lakegeneve]

I can't read Thai from the newspapers. People seem to be mentioning you will have to get off the BTS train at Bearing, and walk to a different BTS train to go to Samut Prakan because it will be operated by a different agency/company. Can you clarify that for us?

The MRTA is currently of the view that they will run the extension. That is why I stated earlier IF the BTSC wins the contract to run the extension.There is a politics involved in why this could occur and nothing is set in stone as yet so let's wait and see.

Practically I doubt that you'd have to walk to the next station as that is not feasible - remember that the BM owns the On Nut to Bearing ext. It might be something akin to a shuttle type service from the same platform. They would probably have to install an extra turn out.

[doctorproc156]

Any word on the off shoot from Udom suk down Bangna-Trat and ending up at Suvharnabhumi?

I cannot really add anything more to what I wrote some time back in response to your earlier query, http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/406991-the-new-skytrain/page-6 post #147

Once the Paknam ext opens in 2016/17, then expect the last phase of the east exts to be built next, the 7km 4 station extension. Even the short BTS west ext will need to be built first.

Given the delays in tenders from last year (12-18 months) due ot the political turmoil and the subsequent coup, and the delays with the Phase 2 expansion of the airport; I'd suggest that this spur line will be more likely to start in the mid 202 than the early 20s as previously suggested.

However, the reality is that even if the above suggested tender list all gets started by 2018 there are still a bunch of lines and extensions (eg. Yellow Phase 2, Orange Phase 2, Dark Red ext to Mahachai etc) which will be a high priority than this spur line.

I recently updated the extension table on wiki with new dates. For this spur line I put 2029, obviously that is a date you won't like and hopefully it will be sooner. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BTS_Skytrain#Silom_Line.2C_South

Govts and priorities can and will change............

Thanks for the info Lakegeneve, yes 2029 isn't really a date I'm too happy with but oh well. I'm mostly just based around the Bangna area and I hardly ever venture into town. But at least now I know that this spur line is definitely at the bottom of the barrel right now literally out of all the planned skytrain lines.

The Yellow line is also something I am interested in as it is still around this area, do you happen to know if the Yellow phase 1 or 2 is the one which would intersect with Bangna-trad?

[zakk9]

I can't read Thai from the newspapers. People seem to be mentioning you will have to get off the BTS train at Bearing, and walk to a different BTS train to go to Samut Prakan because it will be operated by a different agency/company. Can you clarify that for us?

The MRTA is currently of the view that they will run the extension. That is why I stated earlier IF the BTSC wins the contract to run the extension.There is a politics involved in why this could occur and nothing is set in stone as yet so let's wait and see.

Practically I doubt that you'd have to walk to the next station as that is not feasible - remember that the BM owns the On Nut to Bearing ext. It might be something akin to a shuttle type service from the same platform. They would probably have to install an extra turn out.

Bangkok must be the only major city in the world where not anything possible is done to make the public transport system as integrated as possible, as easy to use as possible and as cheap as possible for the users to get people out of their cars and on to rails. Oh well... this is Thailand after all

Have the people who plan this ever been abroad. Have they ever taken public transport except for attending opening ceremonies?

[Lakegeneve]

Any word on the off shoot from Udom suk down Bangna-Trat and ending up at Suvharnabhumi?

I cannot really add anything more to what I wrote some time back in response to your earlier query, http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/406991-the-new-skytrain/page-6 post #147

Once the Paknam ext opens in 2016/17, then expect the last phase of the east exts to be built next, the 7km 4 station extension. Even the short BTS west ext will need to be built first.

Given the delays in tenders from last year (12-18 months) due ot the political turmoil and the subsequent coup, and the delays with the Phase 2 expansion of the airport; I'd suggest that this spur line will be more likely to start in the mid 202 than the early 20s as previously suggested.

However, the reality is that even if the above suggested tender list all gets started by 2018 there are still a bunch of lines and extensions (eg. Yellow Phase 2, Orange Phase 2, Dark Red ext to Mahachai etc) which will be a high priority than this spur line.

I recently updated the extension table on wiki with new dates. For this spur line I put 2029, obviously that is a date you won't like and hopefully it will be sooner. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BTS_Skytrain#Silom_Line.2C_South

Govts and priorities can and will change............

Thanks for the info Lakegeneve, yes 2029 isn't really a date I'm too happy with but oh well. I'm mostly just based around the Bangna area and I hardly ever venture into town. But at least now I know that this spur line is definitely at the bottom of the barrel right now literally out of all the planned skytrain lines.

The Yellow line is also something I am interested in as it is still around this area, do you happen to know if the Yellow phase 1 or 2 is the one which would intersect with Bangna-trad?

I thought that I had done a little overview of the Yellow Line but it seems not.

To answer your query it is Phase 2 so you'll have some time to wait.

[Lakegeneve]

MRTA Yellow Monorail Line

The Yellow Line will be 30.4km long with 23 stations (3 of which will be built later) running from the intersection of Lat Phrao & Ratchdapisek rds (MRT Lat Phrao station) to Bangkapi junction and then south down Srinakarin rd (not using full spelling here) past Seacon and Bang Na-Trat rd to Thepha Rak rd where it then heads west to Sukhumvit rd at Samrong. (interchange with the BTS line).

It will be built in two Phases. Phase 1 from Y1 to Y11 - 4 years construction. Phase 2 from Y11 to Y23.

Originally, the Yellow line was going to be a heavy rail line, part underground (along Latphrao) and elevated. Unfortunately, this was changed 3 years ago to make it a monorail line which is in my view a significant mistake given the pax projections and future potential connection with other heavy rail metro lines. The timeframe for a start to construction was going to be late 2014, however the delays of the last 15 months will push this back (refer to previous post on political turmoil delaying tenders) to at least late 2015. However, we really have to just wait and see what proceeds in the next 6-9 months first with other tenders.

The MRTA needs to decide on a rolling stock supplier first for this line and the Pink line before final design and a tender can be completed.

Station list

• Y1: Ratchada (interchange with MRT Blue Line)
• Y2: Phawana (Latphrao 31)
• Y3: Chok Chai 4
• Y4: Lat Phrao 71 (Future station)
• Y5: Chalong Rat
• Y6: Wong Thonglang (Imperial World)
• Y7: Latphrao 101
• Y8: Bangkapi (The Mall)
• Y9: Lam Sali (interchange with Orange Line)
• Y10: Si Kritha (Krunpthep Keetha rd)
• Y11: Phatthanakan(interchange with Airport Rail Link)
• Y12: Klong Kalanton (Future Station)
• Y13: Sri Nut (On Nut rd)
• Y14: Srinagarinda 38 (Future Station)
• Y15: Rama 9 Park (Seacon)
• Y16: Sri Udom (Udomsuk rd)
• Y17: Wat Sri Iam
• Y18: La Salle (Suk soi 105)
• Y19: Bearing (Suk soi 107)
• Y20: Wat Dan (Suk soi 113)
• Y21: Thepha
• Y22: Thippawan
• Y23: Samrong(interchange with BTS Light Green line)

Note: if anyone requires I can post exact locations and designs of any station

Once the line is completed, it may be extended west over the river to connect with the future southern extension of the Purple Line at Rat Burana. A connection that really must be built in the future.

An overview of the route

Edited August 21, 2014 by Lakegeneve

[BookMan]

Thanks for the updates lakegeneve, great work.