The State Railway of Thailand intends to propose to the Cabinet the advancement of the 'High-Speed Thai-China' project connecting Korat to Nong Khai. As of April 22, 2024, at 2:40 p.m.
With a budget of 341,351.42 million baht, the State Railway of Thailand is moving forward with Phase 2 of the "Thai-Chinese High-Speed" project, spanning from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai, approved during the recent SRT Board of Directors meeting on April 18. The plan is to present it to the Cabinet to commence the bidding process next year, with a targeted service launch set for 2031.
Mr. Nirut Maneephan, Governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), provided updates on the collaboration between the Thai and Chinese governments regarding the high-speed rail system. He mentioned that Phase 1, covering the Bangkok (Krunghep Aphiwat) to Nakhon Ratchasima section, is progressing steadily, with only two more contracts awaiting signing to initiate construction. The expected service launch for this phase is 2029.
On April 18th, the SRT Committee approved Phase 2 of the Thai-Chinese High-Speed project, covering the Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai section, spanning 357.12 kilometers, with a total budget of 341,351.42 million baht. The budget allocation includes expenses for construction, land acquisition, rail system infrastructure, and project management consultancy. This includes costs for civil construction, land acquisition, rail systems, and project management consultancy with the following details:
1. Construction of Thai - China High Speed train from Khorat to Nong Khai: 335,665.21 milion Baht
1.1 Land expropriation and other compensation: 10,310.10 milion Baht
1.2 Civil works for 13 contracts : 235,129.40 milion Baht,
1.3 Platelaying 30,663.75 milion Baht,
1.4 Electromechanics 29,007.08 milion Baht,
1.5 EMU sets 17,874.35 milion Baht,
1.6 Track maintainance vehicles 2,620.43 milion Baht,
1.7 Consultant fees for civil works 6,466.06 milion Baht,
1.8 Consultant fees for project management and engineering control 2,792.38 milion Baht,
1.9 Consultant fees for Independent Consultant 801.66 milion Baht,
2. Na Tha Transshipment Center 5,686.21 milion Baht, including
2.1 Land expropriation and other compensation: 2,108.51 milion Baht,
2.2 Civil works 2,325.46milion Baht,
2.3 Platelaying 418.76 milion Baht,
2.4 Electromechanics 89.44 milion Baht,
2.5 Cranes, fork lifts and other machnes for moving containers within Transshipment Center 429.24 milion Baht,
2.6 Shunting locomotives within Transshipment Center 210.00 milion Baht,
2.7 Consultant fees for civil works 63.95 milion Baht,
2.8 Consultant fees for project management and engineering control 29.38 milion Baht,
2.9 Consultant fees for Independent Consultant 11.47 milion Baht,
The detailed design for the Thai-China High-Speed Project has been completed, awaiting submission to the National Environment Board (EEA) for consideration and approval of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report which is currently under review by the National Environment Board for subsequent approval by the Ministry of Transport and the Cabinet.
Upon approval, SRT will report to the Ministry of Transport and submit it to the Cabinet for bidding approval.
The bidding process for contractors is expected to commence electronically (E-Bidding) within 2025, divided into 13 civil works contracts including route alignment and maintenance center construction, the project aims to maintain a competitive environment. Construction duration for civil works is estimated at 4 years or 48 months, with the construction divided into elevated and ground-level runways across the route to minimize local disruption. The electromechanic installation will take 5 years and a half or 66 months to be done.
The project includes five stations strategically located to optimize accessibility and efficiency with an anticipated completion by December 2030 and service readiness by 2031:
Bua Yai (main dropping point for Chaiyaphum),
Ban Phai (Main dropping for Mahasarakham),
Khon Kaen (Main dropping for Loei and Kalasin),
Udon Thani (Main dropping point for Sakon Nakhon and Nong Bua Lamphu), and
Nong Khai (Main dropping point for Bueng Karn)
Furthermore, the SRT Board of Directors has endorsed a separate endeavor focusing on private investment in the transshipment center and container storage facility at Na Tha, Nong Khai Province (3 km South of existing Nong Khai railway station). This initiative, aimed at bolstering rail transport support, will be presented to relevant authorities for approval. Envisioned as a joint venture between the public and private sectors, the project is slated to enhance cargo handling capacity, with an estimated volume projection of 11.06 million metric tons by 2047.
The decision to segregate the Na Tha contract from the main Thai-China High-Speed Project Phase 2 underscores its pivotal role in facilitating freight transfer and aligns with broader transportation infrastructure objectives. As the project moves forward, it reflects a concerted effort to harness public-private partnerships for sustainable development and economic growth in the region.
https://www.thaipost.net/economy-news/574731/ https://mgronline.com/business/detail/9670000034598
Thailand's Transport Minister to Discuss Accelerated High-Speed Rail Project with China
Focus on completing the second phase of Korat-Nong Khai line, opening bidding in 2025.
[Wednesday, April 24, 2024] Thailand's Minister of Transport, Suriya Juangroongruangkit, will travel to China on May 7-9 to revitalize ministerial-level negotiations on the Thai-China high-speed rail project. This follows a five-year gap in discussions. The trip will also involve executives from agencies under the Ministry of Transport.
A key goal of the visit is to accelerate the second phase of the high-speed rail project, linking Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai. This section's design is complete and has received approval from the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board. The Thai government aims to fast-track the network's completion to enhance travel and freight connections within the ASEAN region and to China, supporting the One Belt One Road initiative and Thailand's role as a regional transportation hub.
Minister Suriya will meet with Chinese investors to promote the Landbridge project, an economic bridge connecting the Andaman Sea to the Gulf of Thailand. This finalizes the Landbridge roadshow and paves the way for the development of official investment documents.
Progress Updates
Phase 1 (Bangkok-Nakhon Ratchasima): Construction is approximately 32.31% complete as of March 25, 2024. Two out of 14 contracts await signing, with the Ministry of Transport working to expedite proceedings. The target opening remains 2028.
Phase 2 (Nakhon Ratchasima-Nong Khai): Approved by the SRT board on April 18 with a budget of 341,351 million baht. Bidding for contractors is expected to open electronically in 2025, split into 13 civil works contracts and one contract for the rail systems, electric train, and mechanical infrastructure. Construction is estimated to take four years, with service beginning by 2031.
Suriya Jungrungruangkit, Thailand's Minister of Transport.
Source: Thai Post newspaper, April 24, 2024.
Thailand Prepares to Accelerate China 'Landbridge' Project with New Roadshow, Legislation
Bangkok, Thailand April 24, 2024 Thailand's transportation sector is making moves to expedite the China "Landbridge" project, a major infrastructure initiative designed to connect the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. Plans include a new roadshow in China and the drafting of legislation for a southern economic zone.
Thai Minister of Transport, Suriya Juangroongruangkit, will lead a transportation delegation to China from May 7-9. On May 8, the group will meet with potential Chinese investors to promote the "Landbridge" project. This effort is intended as the final phase of the Landbridge Roadshow, after which Thailand will commence its official investment bidding process.
Legal Framework and Bidding
Alongside the roadshow, Thailand plans to draft the Southern Special Zone Act (SEC) within the fourth quarter of 2024. Following this, investment invites are expected in late 2025 with a bid opening anticipated in the second quarter of 2026. Land expropriation would begin towards the end of 2026, with construction starting that same year and the project aiming for a 2030 completion.
Project Details and Interest
The Landbridge project involves developing deep-sea ports in Ranong and Chumphon Provinces, linking them via rail and motorway to create a new transportation corridor. It's currently undergoing studies for its business model, port and railway design, and environmental impact assessments (EHIA/EIA).
Thailand is seeking a private-sector partnership model, with investors receiving 50-year concession contracts. Interest from international investors and major shipping lines is reported to be strong.
Thai-Chinese Railway Cooperation
The May visit to China will also see the revival of Thai-Chinese high-speed railway negotiations after a five-year hiatus. Discussions will include progress reports for the Bangkok-Nakhon Ratchasima section (under construction) and Thailand's push to accelerate the Nakhon Ratchasima-Nong Khai section of the line.
Source: Krungthep Turakij Newspaper, issue dated 24 April 2024
The Eastern Economic Corridor Commission (EEC) has summarized the results of the study and public hearings on the development of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) around the high-speed rail stations in Pattaya and Chachoengsao. The plan includes mixed-use complexes, modern trade, OTOP shops, and residential areas. The projects are expected to be submitted to the Cabinet in 2027.
Key points:
The TOD projects will be developed around the Pattaya and Chachoengsao high-speed rail stations.
The projects will include mixed-use complexes, modern trade, OTOP shops, and residential areas.
The goal of the projects is to create vibrant and sustainable communities around the high-speed rail stations.
The projects are expected to be completed by 2027.
Additional details:
The Pattaya TOD project will cover an area of 280 rai (448 acres) and will be divided into three zones:
Zone 1: This zone will be for the high-speed rail station and related facilities.
Zone 2: This zone will be a transit hub with public services, commercial businesses, and international tourism services.
Zone 3: This zone will be a residential and commercial area to support tourism.
The Chachoengsao TOD project will cover an area of 321 rai (513 acres) and will be divided into two zones:
Zone 1: This zone will be for the high-speed rail station and related facilities.
Zone 2: This zone will be a mixed-use development area with commercial, residential, and tourism facilities.
Overall, the TOD projects are expected to have a significant positive impact on the Pattaya and Chachoengsao areas. They will create jobs, boost economic growth, and improve the quality of life for residents.
Source - ผู้จัดการออนไลน์
Friday, April 26, 2024 23:51
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 of the project to develop land use around the high-speed train station connecting three EEC airports, Pattaya Station.
Daoreuk Channel
Apr 29, 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.
Update HSR from Muaklek Tunnel to Nongsaeng station|Thailand April 2024
Iron Wheels Roaming
Apr 29, 2024
In this clip, we ride back from Pha Sadet Station to Nong Saeng Station. Let's start with the tunnel drilling work at Pha Sadet Tunnel 1. At the mouth of the tunnel, after firing concrete to prevent rocks from collapsing, you can see that the drilling has gone several meters deep. It may not seem clear at first, but if you compare it with past clips, you'll see the progress. Contract 3-1, from Thap Kwang School to Map Kabao Station, shows that clearing work continues continuously. One test needle has already been installed in the area near Thap Kwang Temple, and there is a team of drillers analyzing the soil at each level. They enter the area and continuously move the drilling position.
In this clip, we will see many points, starting right next to Map Ka Bao station. Then we'll continue with Contract No. 4-7, Civil Works, which involves making foundations and casting piers. This work continues throughout the contract, including at Kaeng Khoi Junction and the new Kaeng Khoi Junction, directly at Saraburi High-Speed Train Station. The progress is continuous, moving forward until the assembly of segments around Phahonyothin Road, which will take place at night. A segment truck has parked and is waiting, ready to serve for lunch and to pull up and assemble segments.
Continuing with contracts 4-6, which are in the period of drilling and casting needles, the work is done through continuous service until reaching Nong Saeng station. Anyway, go watch the clip.
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.
High-speed rail construction project, contract 3-5 (Khok Kruat-Nakhon Ratchasima section) for the month of April 2024. SPTK Joint Venture
SPTK กิจการร่วมค้า
Apr 29, 2024
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.
Max Puttipong
Apr 29, 2024
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.
"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.
Transport confirms that 'CP' is ready to invest in the high-speed overlapping area between Bang Sue and Don Mueang. On May 2, 2024, at 2:23 p.m.
Transportation prepares to negotiate with China next week to push forward the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail after civil works progressed to 32.31%, ready to accelerate the signing of 2 more contracts, confirming the overlapping period between Bang Sue and Don Mueang. "CP" moves forward with investment, confident to open the first phase of service between Bangkok and Korat by 2028. Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Minister of Transport, chaired the meeting of the Executive Committee for the Development of the Thailand-China Railway Cooperation Project No. 1/2024 to prepare for the 31st Meeting of the Joint Committee for Thailand-China Railway Cooperation in Beijing, People's Republic of China, on May 7 - 8, 2024, stating that attending this meeting in Beijing will report on the progress of the project, including confirming the government's readiness to push forward the second phase of the project, the Nakhon Ratchasima - Nong Khai section.
For this meeting, we discussed the progress of the Thailand-China high-speed rail project, Phase 1, Bangkok - Nakhon Ratchasima section, covering a distance of 250 kilometers, with construction work completed on 2 contracts out of a total of 14 contracts, with another 10 contracts in process and waiting to be signed. Two more contracts, with an overall progress of 32.31%, are expected to be completed and open for service in 2028.
As for the second phase of the project, Nakhon Ratchasima - Nong Khai section, for connecting the project to Lao PDR, the Thai side is currently ready to invest. The detailed design of the project has been completed, and it is currently waiting for submission to the National Environment Board (EEA) to consider and approve the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report. Preliminary service is expected to open in 2030.
This project is given importance by the government and will move forward to complete the goal to connect Lao PDR and China. As for the development of Phase 2, Nakhon Ratchasima - Nong Khai, the Thai side will be the investor, and China will expedite the transfer of technology through the Railway Technology Research and Development Institute (Public Organization).
Mr. Suriya also said that the problem of delivering contract area 4-1, Bang Sue - Don Mueang section, still has issues with overlapping areas with the high-speed rail project connecting three airports (Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, U-Tapao). Currently, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is in negotiations with the CP group, which is a private contractor with three high-speed airports. The private sector still confirms that it will build the overlapping area between Bang Sue and Don Mueang, with negotiations progressing by 90%. A conclusion is expected soon.
As for contracts 4 - 5, Ban Pho - Phra Kaeo section, which currently have not signed contracts for civil works, there are construction problems in the Ayutthaya station area. It is expected that within this week the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP) will submit a report on the cultural property impact, or HIA, of the World Heritage Sites of Nakhon Sawan and Nakhon Si Ayutthaya linked to Ayutthaya High-Speed Train Station to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and ask for opinions. If the contract can be signed, it will be executed immediately.
Therefore, it is expected that the process of handing over the remaining areas of these 2 contracts will be completed within 2 - 3 months and is considered the beginning of concrete progress of the high-speed rail project between the two countries, raising the level of cooperation to be even stronger. This strengthens the economy and security in the region, including linking trade and investment between each other, as well as expanding the network linking railway routes to neighboring countries like Lao PDR in order to further increase transportation potential and connectivity in the region.
No more than 2-3 months! Clear the obstacles, full speed ahead on the high-speed train "Bangkok - Nakhon Ratchasima"
Daily News 2 May 2024 5:23 p.m.
Transportation innovation
The Ministry of Transportation is preparing to discuss the latest developments in phase 1 of the high-speed train project at the Thai-Chinese Joint Committee meeting on May 7-8. Key issues include resolving expropriation delays and handing over construction areas to the contractor. The "Ayutthaya Station - Superimposed Structure is expected to be completed within 2-3 months. Additionally, a joint contract to facilitate the transfer of technology to Thai personnel will be signed.
Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Minister of Transport, revealed that a meeting of the Executive Committee for the development of the Thai-China railway cooperation project has been convened. This meeting aims to prepare for the 31st meeting of the Joint Committee for Railway Cooperation between Thailand and China, scheduled in Beijing, People's Republic of China on May 7-8, 2024. The discussion will center on progress updates for the high-speed rail project (Phase 1), covering the Bangkok-Nakhon Ratchasima section (250 kilometers). Construction is currently 32.31% complete. Two contracts are underway, ten are pending, and two contracts are awaiting signatures. The project is expected to be finished and operational by 2027.
Mr. Suriya further stated that various obstacles continue to impact the implementation of the project, primarily related to land expropriation and the handover of cleared areas to the contractor. Only two contracts remain in this state:
Contract 4-1 (Bang Sue-Don Mueang section,15.21 km): Structural overlap exists with the high-speed rail project connecting three airports (Don Mueang-Suvarnabhumi-U-Tapao). Negotiations are underway with Asia Era One Co., Ltd. (CP Group), the private contractor for the three-airport project. It is highly likely (approximately 90%) that the private sector will build the overlapping structure for the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). The joint investment contract for the three-airport project should be amended soon.
Contract section 4-5 (Ban Pho-Phra Kaeo section, 13.3 km): This week, the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP) will submit a Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) report. The report addresses concerns about the potential impact of the Ayutthaya High-Speed Train Station upon the World Heritage Site of the Historical City of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. UNESCO in Paris will receive the report and is expected to respond within 2-3 months .
Mr. Suriya also noted that the SRT and Boonchai Panich (1979) Company Limited (the designated contractor) are finalizing the signing of Contract 4-5 at the original price of 10,325 million baht. The contract is likely to be signed after UNESCO reviews the HIA report and provides feedback. Upon signing, the SRT will immediately issue a Notice to Proceed (NTP) to the private sector, allowing initial construction on the runway. The Ayutthaya station element will be constructed at a later date.
Mr. Suriya will also inform the Joint Committee that Thailand is accelerating the development of Phase 2 of the project (the Nakhon Ratchasima-Nong Khai section) to connect with Lao PDR and China. This phase is expected to begin operating in 2030 and includes the development of the Natha Railway Station in Nong Khai Province as an international transshipment center. Additionally, the Joint Committee will discuss the transfer of railway and high-speed train technology. The Ministry of Transport has established the Railway Technology Research and Development Institute (RTA) to facilitate this transfer. An MOU with the China State Railway Group Co., Ltd is currently being drafted.
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