Transport Ministry Updates Cabinet on High-Speed Rail Progress, Expects Completion in 2030, Connecting Thailand and China
Source - Prachachat Business Website
Wednesday, January 29, 2025 10:58
The Ministry of Transport has informed the Cabinet of the progress in developing the high-speed rail system, confirming that by 2030, it will run from Bangkok to Nong Khai, passing through Laos and reaching China.
Government Spokesperson, Mr. Jiraayu Huangsup, revealed that the Ministry of Transport reported to the Cabinet meeting on the progress of the cooperative project between the Thai and Chinese governments to construct a high-speed railway to connect ASEAN and China.
(Image of Jiraayu Huangsup, Government Spokesperson)
The report focused on the progress of the section within Thailand, on the route from Bangkok to Nong Khai. The 31st meeting of the Joint Committee for Railway Cooperation between Thailand and China summarized the key points as follows:
(1) Progress of the Bangkok-Nong Khai High-Speed Rail Development
Phase 1: Bangkok-Nakhon Ratchasima Section: Construction progress stands at 35.75% overall. Two contracts, Khlong Dan-Pang Asok and Sikhio-Kut Chik, have been completed. Ten more contracts are under construction, and two are in the procurement process. The Rail Technology Research and Development Institute (Public Organization) has been established.
Phase 2: Nakhon Ratchasima-Nong Khai Section: Expected to be operational in 2030. The design is complete and is currently under review by the National Environmental Board for the EIA report. The State Railway of Thailand Board has approved the project, which will then be proposed to the Cabinet for consideration.
(2) Nong Khai-Vientiane Railway Connection Progress: Five plans are in place:
2.1) Khon Kaen-Nong Khai Dual Track Railway Project: Currently in the bidding process, expected to be operational in 2027.
2.2) Improvement of the Friendship Bridge: To accommodate freight transport with an axle load of 20 tons/axle, the Department of Highways is studying the bridge's load capacity. The Bureau of Budget has approved funding for this study, aiming to reinforce the bridge.
2.3) Construction of a new Mekong River bridge between Thailand and Laos: Both countries have agreed to share the costs within their respective territories. Detailed design and EIA preparation are underway.
2.4) Development of a freight yard: The remaining area after customs clearance will be leased out. Rental prices will be determined according to regulations. The Committee is considering submitting this to the State Enterprise Policy Office for implementation under the Public-Private Partnership Act of 2019.
2.5) Cross-border travel connection between Thanaleng-Vientiane (Ban Kham Sawat): This is complete and operational.
"The government expects the Bangkok-Nong Khai-Vientiane-China high-speed rail project to be an opportunity for the Northeast and Thailand to connect with the global economy," said Mr. Jiraayu. "It will create opportunities for Thai people to trade and invest in regional markets, including the global market of over 8 billion people.
This project is another step by the government in accelerating the implementation of its strategic plan to develop infrastructure, positioning Thailand as the region's logistics hub, as stated by the Prime Minister in his policy statement to the Parliament."
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