**"Den ChaiChiang Khong" Project Halted Awaiting Fine Arts Department Review**
**Source Daily News**
**Wednesday, April 9, 2025, 04:28**
**Ancient Monument Found at Wat Chedi Ngam Site**
**Authorities confident overall project timeline remains unaffected**
The *Daily News Transportation Innovation Team* reports that the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), which oversees the new northern double-track railway project between Den ChaiChiang RaiChiang Khong (totaling 323 km), has submitted a formal request to the 7th Regional Office of Fine Arts in Chiang Mai. This request is to conduct a legal site inspection after the discovery of ancient remains during construction on expropriated land near Ban Chedi Ngam, Tha Wang Thong Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phayao Province, at kilometer marker 685+600.
SRT confirmed that the discovery was incidental during construction and no relocation or excavation of the site had been performed. Construction in this area has been temporarily halted pending the Fine Arts Departments inspection and recommendations. SRT stated it is fully prepared to comply with any guidance provided.
The archaeological site is located in Contract Section 2 (NgaoChiang Rai), which spans 135 km. Progress on this section stands at over 33%, though it's about 8% behind schedule. Nonetheless, the pace is still considered rapid compared to other sections, and four years of construction time remain. Officials are confident the temporary suspension will not affect the overall timeline. Work will be expedited in other accessible areas under Contract Section 2 to avoid delays.
It is not expected that the route will need to be altered, but if the Fine Arts Department suggests otherwise, SRT will respect the decision, emphasizing its commitment to preserving cultural heritage and archaeological sites. For example, the ordination hall of Wat Lao Charoenrat, previously located within the construction zone, has been relocated about 15 meters away without any damage, ensuring both the progress of the project and the preservation of local spiritual landmarks.
As for the broader progress of the 72.9 billion baht Den ChaiChiang RaiChiang Khong double-track rail project, completion currently stands at approximately 28.18%, trailing the original plan by 8.36%.
- **Contract 1** (Den ChaiNgao, 104 km): 24.36% complete, ahead of schedule by 2.35%
- **Contract 2** (NgaoChiang Rai, 135 km): 33.11% complete, behind schedule by 8.86%
- **Contract 3** (Chiang RaiChiang Khong, 84 km): 26.57% complete, behind by 22.35%
The project is expected to be completed and operational by 2028 as planned. Once operational, it will cut travel time by 11.5 hours by car, boosting tourism and economic value in the region.
**Source: Daily News, April 10, 2025 (Afternoon Edition)**
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