In a noteworthy display of his commitment to advancing Thailand’s transportation infrastructure, Caretaker Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha embarked on an inspection tour to evaluate the ongoing renovations on the northeastern railroad, specifically focusing on the Map Kabao – Thanon Chira Junction section. This double-track railway enhancement is poised to usher in a new era of efficiency for both passenger and freight train services.
The Prime Minister’s meticulously planned inspection itinerary commenced at the Hin Lap Railway Station in Saraburi. Boarding a train destined for the Pha Sadet tunnel, a pivotal component of the expansive subterranean network threading through mountains, Gen Prayut delved into a comprehensive assessment of the ongoing transformation.
Providing valuable insights into the project’s status, Niruj Maneepun, the Governor of the State Railway of Thailand, disclosed that the construction endeavors within this segment have reached an impressive 97% completion rate. Anticipating the conclusion of civil engineering tasks by the following year, a partial unveiling of the upgraded railway is well on the horizon.
The anticipated double-track overhaul of this railway stretch is primed to be a game-changer, overhauling both train velocities and frequency of rides. A significant facet of this improvement entails establishing a crucial link to the future Thailand-China High Speed Rail in the Nong Khai province.
As the renovation takes effect, passenger trains will attain peak speeds of 120 kilometers per hour, marking a substantial upgrade from the previous speed threshold. Similarly, the enhancement will elevate the top average speed of freight trains to an impressive 60 kilometers per hour, a notable progression from the existing pace of 29 kilometers per hour.
Gen Prayut, underscoring his visionary approach, affirmed the continuity of this project, as well as other initiatives in the study phase, by the impending government. He expressed optimism that these projects would remain at the forefront of the new administration’s agenda.
Eager to remain informed about further developments, the Prime Minister extended his engagement to encompass the Thailand-China High Speed Line, a transformative endeavor that will connect Bangkok and Nong Khai in its initial phase. The venture’s first leg will bridge the geographical expanse between the capital city and Nakhon Ratchasima.
Gen Prayut’s unwavering commitment to comprehensively assess progress was epitomized by his subsequent visit to the Navaminda Kasatriyadhiraj Royal Thai Air Force Academy, situated in Muak Lek district. His exhaustive journey concluded as he returned to Bangkok, having assuredly reinforced his dedication to the advancement of Thailand’s transportation infrastructure.
