Thailand’s Transport Ministry plans to allocate nearly 300 billion baht for the expansion of multiple dual railway tracks next year.
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has unveiled a strategy to accelerate the implementation of the second phase, which encompasses six dual-track railway initiatives.
Together, these routes extend over 1,312 kilometers and have a total budget allocation of 298.06 billion baht.
The Budget Bureau has already approved these projects, which are now pending further evaluation by the Finance Ministry and the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).
Both agencies are anticipated to deliver their assessments by the end of this month, with cabinet approval expected by January, according to Mr. Suriya.
The six dual-track routes include Pak Nam Pho-Den Chai (281 kilometers, 81.14 billion baht), Chira Junction-Ubon Ratchathani (308 km, 44.1 billion baht), Hat Yai-Padang Besar (45 km, 7.9 billion baht), Chumphon-Surat Thani (168 km, 30.42 billion baht), Surat Thani-Hat Yai-Songkhla (321 km, 66.27 billion baht), and Den Chai-Chiang Mai (189 km, 68.22 billion baht).
Additionally, the review process is ongoing for the second phase of the high-speed railway project linking Bangkok to Nong Khai, spanning 357.12 km and valued at 341 billion baht.
This review by the Finance Ministry and the NESDC is slated for completion within two months, with project bidding expected within the following year.
Furthermore, the ministry has provided an update on the progress of constructing a dual-track railway from Khon Kaen to Nong Khai in the northeast.
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) governor Veeris Ammarapala and the joint venture CHO Thavee-AS Construction have recently signed a contract worth 28.67 billion baht.
This project is part of the government’s broader logistics development strategy, aiming to boost rail transport efficiency and strengthen connectivity with neighboring countries, including Laos and China.
The project involves constructing a new railway track alongside the existing one, covering 167 km with 14 stations, four stopping points, three freight terminals, and advanced signaling and telecommunication systems, with an expected completion date in 2028.
