The EEC has begun studying and preparing a land use map covering the areas surrounding the three high-speed airport stations. Of particular focus is the Pattaya-Chachoengsao region, where a 280-rai, Pattaya-specific plan is being developed to support a large-scale mixed-use project. This plan is expected to be presented to the Cabinet in 2024.
Video accompanying the meeting to listen to public opinions. Seminar summarizing study results. Project to create a map of land use in the area around the station. Special Economic Promotion Zone. High-speed rail project connecting three airports. Friday, April 26, 2024, 08:30 14:00 hrs. At Rattanakosin Room, Eastern Grand Palace Hotel, Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. By the Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee (EEC).
The high-speed rail project connecting three airports is an important endeavor driving the Eastern Economic Corridor area towards job creation, opportunity enhancement, and economic value elevation, thus propelling Thailand onto the world stage. One of its key extensions for maximum benefit is the development of the area around the station according to Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) principles.
For this purpose, the Eastern Special Development Zone Policy Committee Office has prepared a map of land use in the area surrounding the station. This is aimed at supporting the development of areas surrounding two high-speed train stations: Pattaya Station in Chonburi Province and Chachoengsao Station in Chachoengsao Province, to make the high-speed rail linking the three airports economically viable. This entails the creation of cities, where TOD raises the quality of life and economy.
The past endeavors of the project have involved conducting studies to prepare a land use plan around the station, along with soliciting opinions and suggestions from all relevant sectors to ensure the project's appropriateness. These efforts can be summarized as follows:
Pattaya Station:
With the potential to become a significant tourist hub, Pattaya stands to benefit greatly from the accessibility afforded by a high-speed train station connecting three airports. Expectedly, this will bolster its role as a center connecting Pattaya to the international scene and facilitating travel connections between the city and surrounding communities. It is anticipated that by 2037, Pattaya Station will witness over 15,000 passengers transferring daily.
Moreover, the Pattaya Station area is set to house not only a high-speed train station but also a double-track railway station. In the future, it will accommodate a secondary mass transit system, the Pattaya Green Line, which is expected to be an elevated rail transportation system connecting Bali Hai Pier to Pattaya Station.
The Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) has already delineated the boundaries of the promotion areas, with the Pattaya High-Speed Railway Station encompassing a total of 97 rai of land owned by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). However, it has been observed that there are as many as 35 neighboring land plots, totaling 64 plots (approximately 142 rai), expressing interest in joining as a promotion zone. After a meeting to solicit opinions and devise plans to prevent issues arising from directionless development, it has been proposed to expand the promotion zone to a total area of 280 rai.
In the future, Pattaya High-Speed Train Station is poised to play a pivotal role in supporting the surrounding area, fostering its development in line with the vision of Pattaya becoming a commercial center. This includes fostering karma and new international housing, facilitating convenient travel with Smart Mobility, promoting high-density mixed-use development, establishing a multimodal transportation center (Intermodal Transit Facility), ensuring an adequate road network, incorporating sufficient green space, and implementing measures to alleviate flooding.
This envisioned future of Pattaya Station, developed according to TOD principles, will feature mixed land uses and vibrant activities, transforming it into a world-class tourist destination that promotes economic growth at all levels. It will boast an easily accessible travel network conforming to international standards, surrounded by green spaces, thereby ensuring a high quality of life and sustainability.
Video of the project aims to develop land use around the high-speed train station connecting three EEC airports: Chachoengsao Station.
The video accompanies the meeting to gather public opinions and a seminar summarizing the study results of the project to create a land use map in the vicinity of the station, part of the Special Economic Promotion Zone and the high-speed rail project connecting three airports.
The high-speed rail project connecting three airports is crucial in driving the development of the Eastern Economic Corridor area, generating employment, fostering opportunities, enhancing economic value, and positioning Thailand on the global stage with high-speed trains as catalysts for growth. One of the key strategies for maximum benefit is to develop the area around the station following Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) principles.
To this end, the Eastern Special Development Zone Policy Committee Office has prepared a land use map for the vicinity of the station. This initiative supports the development surrounding two high-speed train stations: Pattaya Station in Chonburi Province, and Chachoengsao Station in Chachoengsao Province, aiming to make the high-speed rail link between the three airports economically viable. This involves building cities and implementing TOD to elevate the quality of life and the economy.
"Investing in TOD around high-speed train stations to create livable cities and enhance the quality of life and economy for communities."
The project has previously conducted a study to formulate a land use plan around the station, taking into account opinions and suggestions from relevant stakeholders to tailor the project as closely as possible to the needs of the area.
Chachoengsao Station, situated near Bangkok and the eastern region, is strategically located, offering travel times of just 15 minutes to Suvarnabhumi Airport, 37 minutes to Don Mueang Airport, and 61 minutes to U-Tapao Airport in the eastern region. This positions it as a transportation hub connecting tourist destinations and economic hubs in the EEC, making it an attractive place to reside.
Upon the opening of the high-speed train, it is projected that by 2037, Chachoengsao Station will accommodate over 22,000 passengers transferring through the station daily.
Currently, the EEC has delineated the boundaries of the promotion areas. The Chachoengsao High-Speed Railway Station already encompasses a total of 78 rai of land owned by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). Moreover, to enhance development opportunities for the surrounding area, interest has been expressed in expanding the promotion zone by adjacent landowners. Thirty individuals have shown interest, collectively owning 46 plots totaling approximately 164 rai within the promotion zone, which spans a total area of 321 rai.
In the future, Chachoengsao high-speed train station will play a pivotal role in supporting the surrounding area, contributing to the vision of a new city characterized by good health, convenient travel, connectivity with the EEC, and global integration.
Serve as a transportation hub connecting Chachoengsao with tourist attractions and vital economic activities in the EEC and Bangkok.
Provide quality housing to accommodate the expansion of Bangkok and the EEC.
Connect cultural and health tourist attractions, health rehabilitation centers, health food centers, and OTOP product distribution centers.
This illustrates the envisioned future of Chachoengsao Station, evolving in accordance with TOD principles to optimize land use. A comprehensive public transport network will connect existing and new communities, complemented by green spaces promoting good health. This holistic approach aims to enhance quality of life and unlock economic opportunities for society, communities, and the areas surrounding the station, fostering well-being, good nutrition, and a high quality of life.
Construction of the high-speed Bangkok-Korat rail line's Sung Noen-Korat section faces delays as some villagers have yet to relocate from the designated area.
Supporting Progress, Accelerating Investment in 4 Main EEC Projects Hopes for High-Speed Rail Connecting 3 Airports
By Prathan Jiewjinda, Head of Government Policy and Business Factors Research Section, Research Office, CIMB Thai Bank
Bangkok Business, April 30, 2024, 7:14 a.m.
Investment contracts for four main infrastructure projects in the EEC area are in place: Map Ta Phut Port Phase 3, Laem Chabang Deep Sea Port Phase 3, the high-speed rail linking 3 airports, and U-Tapao Airport and the Eastern Aviation City.
Map Ta Phut Industrial Port Phase 3 (investment of 47,900 million baht) shows the most progress at 69.64%. The private contractor is expected to complete the port structure, designed for natural gas and liquid cargo, in early 2027. This will increase capacity, support the petrochemical industry, enhance the area's potential, and bolster national energy security.
Construction of Laem Chabang Deep Sea Port Phase 3 (investment of 84,360 million baht) is slightly behind schedule at 13.26%. The project should be completed by the end of 2027, establishing the port as a major regional hub and increasing container capacity from 11 to 18 million TEU per year.
The high-speed train connecting 3 airports (investment of 224,544 million baht) is facing delays. The launch date may be pushed back to 2025-2026 due to ongoing contract negotiations and COVID-19 disruptions. The project is awaiting its investment promotion certificate, a crucial step before construction can begin.
U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City (total investment of 290,000 million baht) could receive its construction go-ahead within 2024, with construction lasting 3-4 years. Anticipated completion is in 2027-2028, which would help alleviate congestion at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports. Progress remains linked to the resolution of shared structural issues with the high-speed rail project.
In conclusion, the Map Ta Phut Industrial Port Phase 3 project demonstrates the most significant headway and is closest to being operational. The Laem Chabang Deep Sea Port Phase 3 also shows promise. While the high-speed rail and U-Tapao Airport projects face delays, investment is expected to accelerate in 2024.
Public-private partnerships (PPP) necessitate structural reforms for long-term success. The government is acutely aware of this and aims to expedite spending and investment. Many expect the 4 main EEC mega-projects to revitalize the surrounding areas and industries, driving significant economic growth in the EEC.
High-speed rail construction site, junction to enter the maintenance depot at Chiang Rak Noi is located near Chiang Rak Noi railway station, Chiang Rak Noi sub-district, Bang Pa In district, Ayutthaya province. The piers are complete.
Update: HSR PAKCHONG-KORAT in Thailand | April 2024
There are a total of 4 contracts continuously in progress in the area.
In this clip, we will ride a train and observe the construction of a high-speed rail line, specifically the Pak Chong-Lam Takhong-Korat section. We will compare the progress with that of last month.
Starting at Pak Chong Station:
- Contract No. 3-3 Bandai Ma-Lam Takhong, Thai Engineer Co., Ltd.
Around Pak Chong Station, much of the foundation work has been completed, mainly involving casting piers. This progress continues until the entrance to the Lam Takhong Tunnel.
At Pak Chong high-speed train station, significant progress has been made since the clip from early March. While passing by on the train, we couldn't discern the details clearly, but we observed a crane in operation, along with the assembly of needle molding sets throughout the area. Notably, we could see the addition of second twin piers at the end of the station, heading towards Submuang Station.
Regarding tunnel work under Contract No. 3-2 Naowarat Phatthanakan, substantial progress should have been made. We will provide a summary of the artificial tunnel covering with soil. However, it remains open for service vehicles to pass through during the construction period. We'll provide a closer look in the upcoming clip.
- Contract No. 3-4 Lam Takhong Sikhiu, undertaken by Italian-Thai PCL and CREC partners from China, has seen continuous progress over several phases. Work has commenced from the tunnel on the Klong Phai side and continues towards the service area across Khlong Phai. Numerous bridges have been constructed over the Lam Takhong Canal. We will explore this further in the Klong Phai clip. Runway support beam work has been undertaken at 3 locations for Contract 3-4, progressing straight past Khlong Phai and crossing over to the other side, intersecting with Motorway No. 6, Bang Pa-in-Korat, and Road No. 201 leading to Chaiyaphum. The construction is ongoing with significant progress witnessed.
Beyond Sikhio Station lies Contract 2-1, Sikhio-Kudchik Civil Construction Co., Ltd. Civil work here is 100% completed and is at ground level, serving as a clean maintenance center.
Following Contract 2-1 is Contract 3-4, Kutchik-Kok Kruat, where multiple teams are continuously working. Finally, Contract 3-5, Khok Kruat-Nakhon Ratchasima, undertaken by SPTK Joint Venture, showcases ongoing progress before reaching Korat. We will provide further insights in the upcoming clip.
In addition to observing the construction progress, we intend to capture images of the entire station. With numerous stations between Pak Chong and Korat, we aim to capture the ambiance of train travel, including passengers boarding and disembarking. We will accompany local train 431, traveling from Kaeng Khoi to Khon Kaen."
Thailand's Ministry of Transport to Discuss High-Speed Rail Progress with China
Bangkok, Thailand May 2, 2024 Thailand's Minister of Transport, Mr. Suriya Jungrungruangkit, announced today that a delegation will travel to Beijing next week for the 31st Thailand-China Railway Cooperation meeting. The purpose of the meeting is to accelerate progress on the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project.
Progress Update
The first phase of the Bangkok-Nakhon Ratchasima section is 32.31% complete, with two out of 14 construction contracts finished. The Ministry expects this phase to be operational in 2028.
Thailand is committed to moving forward with the second phase of the project (Nakhon Ratchasima-Nong Khai), with the detailed design already complete. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports are pending. Thailand will be the primary investor in this phase, with China providing technology transfer support.
Addressing Challenges
The Ministry is working to resolve area overlap issues in the Bang Sue-Don Mueang section between the Thai-Chinese line and the planned high-speed rail connecting three airports. Negotiations with the CP group are 90% complete, with a resolution expected shortly.
The Ministry also anticipates a report this week from the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP) regarding the cultural impact of the Ayutthaya station on World Heritage sites. This report will be submitted to UNESCO.
Stronger Cooperation
The upcoming Joint Committee for Thailand-China Railway Cooperation meeting aims to strengthen the progress of this important project. Both nations are committed to bolstering regional economic development and security through improved rail infrastructure, investment, and connectivity with neighboring countries like Laos.
ด้านการถ่ายทอดทางเทคโนโลยีรถไฟและรถไฟความเร็วสูงจากต่างประเทศ ปัจจุบันกระทรวงคมนาคมได้จัดตั้งสถาบันวิจัยและพัฒนาเทคโนโลยีระบบราง (สทร.) ขึ้นเป็นหน่วยงานกลางสำหรับถ่ายทอดเทคโนโลยี ทดสอบและรับรองชิ้นส่วน รวมทั้งสนับสนุนศูนย์ซ่อมบำรุงรถไฟความเร็วสูงที่สถานีเชียงรากน้อย โดยอยู่ระหว่างจัดทำร่างบันทึกความร่วมมือ (MOU) กับ China State Railway Group Co., Ltd.
"Suriya" aims to negotiate overlapping areas at three airports to support Phase 1 of the Thai-Chinese high-speed project, bolstering the economic base.
On May 2, 2024, at 3:08 p.m., "Suriya" engaged with relevant agencies to discuss the Thai-Chinese high-speed plan, Phase 1. A total of 14 contracts were revealed. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is currently negotiating with CP to clear overlapping areas at three airports, making 90% progress and preparing for discussions with China in 2028.
Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, disclosed that he chaired the meeting of the Executive Committee for the Development of the Thailand-China Railway Cooperation Project No. 1/2024. This meeting prepared for the Joint Committee for Railway Cooperation between Thailand and China No. 31, scheduled in Beijing, People's Republic of China on May 7-8, 2024. Mr. Suraphong Piyachote, Deputy Minister of Transport, and Mr. Chayatham Phromsorn, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, along with senior management representatives from agencies under the Ministry of Transport and related agencies, attended the meeting.
The meeting reviewed the progress of Phase 1 of the Thailand-China high-speed rail project, specifically the Bangkok-Nakhon Ratchasima section, covering a distance of 250 kilometers. Construction work has been completed on 2 out of 14 contracts, with 10 contracts in process and awaiting signatures. Two additional contracts, with an overall progress of 32.31%, are expected to be completed and operational by 2028.
Mr. Suriya further emphasized the importance of the Thai-Chinese high-speed project for connecting Laos PDR and China. The government will report to China on the project's progress and address any issues. Regarding the overlapping areas in the Bang Sue-Don Mueang area, negotiations between SRT and CP are ongoing, with 90% progress made. It is anticipated that the private sector will proceed with construction once negotiations are finalized.
In the Ayutthaya station area, a report on the impact on cultural assets (HIA) of the World Heritage Sites of Nakhon Sawan and Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, connected to the Ayutthaya High-Speed Railway Station in Phase 1, will be submitted tomorrow (May 3). The results are expected to be reviewed by UNESCO within 3 months.
Phase 2 of the project, the Nakhon Ratchasima-Nong Khai section, aimed at connecting to Laos PDR, is being accelerated. It is expected to be operational by 2020. Discussions have also been held regarding the development of Natha Railway Station in Nong Khai Province to serve as an international transshipment center supporting cross-border transportation of goods between Thailand, Laos PDR, and China.
Mr. Suriya proposed studying the approach used in the successful Thai-Laos Friendship Bridge project as a guideline for the new railway construction project and railway bridge across the Mekong River, spanning from Vientiane South Station to Natha Station.
The Ministry of Transport has established the Railway Technology Research and Development Institute (RTA) as the central agency for technology transfer, testing, and certifying parts, and supporting the high-speed train maintenance center at Chiang Rak Noi Station. A draft memorandum of cooperation (MOU) with China State Railway Group Co., Ltd., is currently being prepared.
The upcoming meeting of the Joint Committee for Thailand-China Railway Cooperation will mark the concrete progress of the high-speed rail project between the two countries. This will elevate cooperation to a stronger level, enhancing the economy and security in the region, as well as fostering trade and investment. Furthermore, it will expand the network linking railway routes to neighboring countries like Laos PDR, thereby increasing transportation potential and connectivity in the region.
You cannot post new topics in this forum You cannot reply to topics in this forum You cannot edit your posts in this forum You cannot delete your posts in this forum You cannot vote in polls in this forum