Thailand's Ministry of Transportation Proposes 72 Billion Baht Plan for 3 Tram Lines
Source: Thansettakij
Date: Saturday, April 20, 2024 05:46
Thailand's Ministry of Transportation has unveiled a 72 billion baht plan to construct three new tram lines. The Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) will submit the results of the project's feasibility study in April. If approved, service could begin as early as 2031.
The Ministry of Transportation previously made plans for regional "tram trains" to address traffic congestion. However, a cost-saving review led the Ministry to order a redesign of the MRTA's plans, delaying the project by over three years.
Details of the Projects:
Chiang Mai: The 15.7-kilometer "Red Line" project (budget: 29,621 million baht) is currently in the detailed study design phase. The MRTA expects to present its findings and a PPP report by April 2024. Following further reviews, the proposal could reach the Cabinet for approval in 2026, with construction potentially starting in 2027 and service by 2031.
Nakhon Ratchasima: This 11.15-kilometer "Green Line" (budget: 7,242 million baht) is under review. The study and PPP report should be completed by April 2024, with the project potentially reaching the Cabinet for approval in 2026. Construction could then begin in 2027 and service by 2031.
Phuket: The longest of the lines at 41.7 kilometers (budget: 35,350 million baht ), this project is undergoing a study comparing different tram technologies. Upon completion of the PPP report, the proposal aims to reach the Cabinet for potential approval by early 2027. Construction could start in 2028 and service by 2031.
The MRTA has previously determined that rubber-wheeled electric trams would be the most suitable design for the Chiang Mai and Nakhon Ratchasima projects.
In Phuket, due to potential traffic disruption from construction, the MRTA will coordinate the project's implementation with the Department of Highways to ensure the timely completion of Highway 4027, which will serve as a traffic bypass.
Source: Thansettakij newspaper, issue 21 - 24 April 2024
Phuket Electric Train Project Faces Delays, Study and Construction Timeline Revised
The Phuket electric train project has been delayed, with the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) reopening studies to compare operating systems. A new timeline, released by the Ministry of Transport on April 20th, 2024, outlines a revised plan with construction now likely to begin in September 2028.
The Ministry of Transport has released an updated timeline for the Phuket electric train project. Originally slated to begin construction in 2028, the project is now undergoing further feasibility studies initiated by the MRTA. These studies will compare the suitability of various operating systems, including the initially proposed light rail system (tram), a rubber-wheeled tram system (Automated Rapid Transit: ART), and potentially EV buses.
Timeline:
- October 2025 - June 2026: Revised public-private partnership (PPP) feasibility study to be completed and submitted.
- July 2026 - February 2027: Project proposal to be presented to the Ministry of Transport, State Enterprise Policy Office, Public-Private Investment Policy Committee, and ultimately the Cabinet for approval.
- March 2027 - August 2028: Selection of private investors.
- September 2028: Construction begins (estimated 3-year timeline).
- December 2031: Projected completion and opening of service.
Background:
The change in leadership to the Pheu Thai Party government prompted the MRTA's decision to reassess the project. Previous plans, proposed under the prior Minister of Transport, to shift from a light rail system to rubber-wheeled trams or EV buses were halted in October 2023.
Phuket Tram Project Delayed; Construction Expected to Begin within Two Years
Daily News
Monday, April 29, 2024 05:32
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungruangkit announced that the Phuket Provincial Mass Transit System Project (Phuket Tram) is undergoing a detailed review. The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) is adjusting the project plan to align with current conditions, particularly within areas with limited traffic space and intersections between highways and the planned rail route. Additionally, investment models, the electric train system, and fare structures are being reassessed for optimal efficiency. Construction is now scheduled to begin within the next two years, following a policy directive given in September 2023.
Mr. Suriya explained that the Phuket Tram project must await the completion of current highway construction projects by the Department of Highways. These road projects will provide alternate routes during the tram's construction phase. Simultaneous development of both road and rail projects would cause significant traffic disruptions in Phuket Province, particularly on Highway 402 (Thepkrasattri Road). The revised studies are expected to be complete within 2024. Following this, the project will undergo several phases, including committee reviews and a private sector selection process. If approved by the Cabinet, construction is anticipated to begin in September 2025, with service commencing in December 2027.
Mr. Suriya confirmed the Phuket Tram Project's approval during his tenure as Transport Minister, adhering to MRTA's updated timeline. The original route, starting at Phuket International Airport and ending at the Chalong intersection, remains unchanged. For safety and minimal traffic impact, the tram will run through underpasses at highway intersections.
The Minister elaborated on the planned underpasses, highlighting five locations around Phuket city's outskirts. He also addressed potential fare structures, suggesting tiered pricing to make the service affordable for local residents while generating revenue through higher fares for tourists traveling from the airport.
Mr. Suriya emphasized his prioritization of expediting mass transit projects in both Phuket and Chiang Mai. [Include additional information about the Chiang Mai Red Line project to provide context if needed].
Background: The Phuket Tram project, initially conceived during the NCPO era, was slated for construction in 2020 but has faced revisions and delays.
"Suriya" has directed the MRTA to review and adjust the design of the "Phuket Tram" to align with local conditions in the area. He emphasized the creation of "Khlong Haeng" to navigate through intersections and address the issue of narrow road zones. The goal is to offer affordable fares for residents in the vicinity.
The construction of the Phuket Tram Phase 1, spanning approximately 41.7 kilometers from Phuket Airport to Chalong Intersection, is currently undergoing a thorough study and review by the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA). The focus is on adapting the operating model to suit the existing infrastructure, especially in areas with limited traffic lanes and congested intersections.
Mr. Suriya has proposed adjustments to the route layout, particularly in areas with ground-level structures where traffic lanes are scarce and space is limited. Consultants are considering options such as a dry canal-style runway or an underpass to minimize disruption to highway traffic and ensure safety.
Five underpasses are planned along Highway 402 on the outskirts of Phuket city, each serving specific areas such as Muang Thalang School, Mut Dok Khao intersection, Thalang District, Si Sunthon Municipality, and Koh Kaew Intersection - Bang Khu Intersection.
The MRTA aims to complete the study, review, and improvement process within six months. Additionally, investment studies and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) evaluations will be conducted. The government's preference is to invest in the infrastructure itself to facilitate setting fare rates.
The study report is expected to be finalized between October 2025 and June 2026, followed by submissions to relevant committees and approval processes. Construction is slated to begin in September 2028, with completion expected by December 2031.
Mr. Suriya has assured that fare rates for the tram project will be designed to accommodate both locals and tourists, with lower rates for residents to encourage usage. He remains committed to ensuring that the project benefits the community without imposing undue financial burdens.
In addressing transportation needs in Chiang Mai Province, Mr. Suriya emphasized the importance of designing a mass transit system that integrates seamlessly with the region's cultural and conservation areas. Public understanding and acceptance of the project are key considerations.
Source: Daily Manager 360 Degree newspaper, dated April 29, 2024.
'Suriya' Advances Phuket Tram Project, MRTA to Study PPP; Construction to Begin in 2028
Source: Kaohoon
Date: Tuesday, April 30, 2024 05:24
"Suriya" updates the status of the first phase of the Phuket tram project, a 41.7 km line with a budget of 34 billion baht. The MRTA expects to complete a PPP feasibility study within 6 months and gain project approval during this time. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2028, with service starting at the end of 2031.
Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, provided an update on the regional light rail transit project (tram) for Phuket Province. The first phase will connect Phuket Airport to the Chalong Intersection, spanning approximately 41.7 kilometers (km.) with a budget of approximately 34.5 billion baht. The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) is currently reviewing and adjusting the operating model to align with existing local conditions, particularly in areas with narrow traffic lanes and highway intersections.
The MRTA's study will take 6 months. The project is planned for presentation to the working group and the MRTA Committee (Board) between October 2025 and June 2026. Subsequent approvals will be sought from the Ministry of Transport, the State Enterprise Policy Office (SPO), the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Committee, and the Cabinet between July 2026 and February 2027. The private selection process will then take place between March 2027 and August 2028.
Mr. Suriya has set a goal for construction to start in September 2028, with completion and service launch anticipated in December 2031. The Phuket tram project's construction will coincide with the completion of the highway expansion projects on Route 402 and Route 4027 to minimize traffic disruptions. Mr. Suriya expressed confidence in securing project approval during his tenure as Minister of Transport.
The project design will include underpasses at five intersections on Highway 402 in the Phuket town outskirts to ensure safety and minimize traffic impact. A two-tiered fare system is planned local residents will benefit from lower fares to encourage usage, while tourists traveling from the airport will pay a higher rate aligned with investment costs.
Source: Kaohoon newspaper, issue dated April 30, 2024
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