KKU's feasibility study points to light rail transit in Khon Kaen

KKU's feasibility study points to light rail transit in Khon Kaen

KHON KAEN, 4 May 2016 (NNT) – Khon Kaen University has concluded its study on the feasibility of the city’s transit development project, affirming that the city's light rail system is capable of becoming the city’s main mode of mass transit.

Khon Kaen Governor Kamtorn Tawornsatit has revealed a study from Khon Kaen University (KKU) on the feasibility of Khon Kaen's mass transit development, confirming that the proposed light rail system is a suitable choice.

The Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) has ordered a study on the mass transit system's design, and tasked related parties to overview the environmental impact of the project.

The study determined the suitable mode of transportation, choosing between the light rail trains operating either on steel wheels or tires, designing the project plan and evaluating environmental impact during its first pilot route. Also examined was the project's impact on the economy, and further plans to expand to nearby areas.

The study confirmed that light rail train was the suitable option. The trains will be equipped with steel wheels instead of tires, and the project has been sent to the OTP for consideration.

The Khon Kaen Light Rail Project's construction will begin with the North-South light rail line as a pilot route from Samran to Tha Phra along a 26-kilometer track with a total of 18 stations.

The line will be operated with 15 domestically manufactured trains, each consisting of 3 bogeys. The trains will have a maximum service capacity of 180 passengers.


-- NNT 2016-05-04