Thailand to refurbish Japanese diesel trains for suburban services
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) plans to introduce 20 second-hand Japanese KiHa diesel trains for suburban passenger services. A systems test is set for June, before the refurbishment of the KiHa 40 and KiHa 48 trains, with six trains expected to be operational by the end of the year.
SRT chief Veeris Ammarapala mentioned that these diesel trains were donated by JR EAST from Japan. While JR West and JR Hokkaido have previously donated train carriages to Thailand on five occasions since 1997, this marks the first donation from JR EAST.
Modifications will be made to the trains’ undercarriages to fit Thailand’s 1-metre standard gauge rail tracks. Following these adjustments, the trains will be sent to Laem Chabang station to have their cabs refitted.
Subsequently, the trains will be transported to Makkasan for refurbishment. This process includes a comprehensive inspection covering all components such as the undercarriage, power and transmission systems, and brakes, followed by final engine maintenance, which is anticipated to take about 60 days.
Performance tests will be conducted to evaluate acceleration, braking distance, surveillance system, mechanical vibrations, and air conditioning. The trains’ exteriors will also be repainted, and restrooms renovated, reported Bangkok Post.
These trains will enhance the suburban feeder rail system services between Bangkok and the surrounding provinces. The KiHa 40 trains offer 65 seats and feature double-cab driver compartments with restrooms at both ends, while the 11 KiHa 48 trains provide 82 seats and have a single-cab driver compartment.
In similar news, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is introducing a new passenger train service between Bangkok and Vientiane, Laos, starting on July 13 last year. This service will provide enhanced travel options between the two countries, with tickets available for booking up to 180 days in advance.
The new route will offer two round-trip journeys each day, featuring three service classes: third-class fan-cooled seats with 152 spots, second-class air-conditioned seats with 64 seats, and second-class air-conditioned sleeper berths with 30 beds.
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