SRT demolishes buildings in Nakhon Ratchasima for high-speed rail

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has begun demolishing buildings in a disputed area in Nakhon Ratchasima to expedite the construction of a high-speed rail project. Only one commercial unit awaits demolition due to a pending compensation claim.

Demolition work started today, with machinery moving in to clear the area in the Mueang district. The SRT aims to clear this space for the high-speed rail project, which has been at the centre of local disputes.

The commercial buildings in front of the Nakhon Ratchasima Railway Station along Muk Montri Road have mostly been demolished. One unit remains intact, awaiting a court decision on the compensation demanded by the tenant.

The high-speed rail project has also seen significant changes in response to public demands. Residents in Krok Kruat Subdistrict and Ban Mai Subdistrict of Mueang District had raised concerns over the original plan to elevate the railway using an embankment, fearing it would cause flooding and disrupt local travel.

After continuous protests and negotiations since 2019, the SRT has agreed to modify the plan. The new design will replace the embankment with elevated pillars, addressing the residents’ concerns.

Representative of Ban Mai Subdistrict, Praphot Thammaprateep stated that the revised design would mitigate the flooding and transportation issues initially feared by the community.

The budget for the new design is currently under review by the Cabinet. Praphot expressed confidence that the SRT would adhere to the revised plan without further modifications.

The change in construction plans is seen as a victory for residents who have been advocating for a solution that minimises the impact on their daily lives, reported Khaosod.

The high-speed rail project, part of a broader effort to modernise Thailand’s transportation infrastructure, has faced numerous challenges and delays, primarily due to disputes over land use and compensation.

Even though the new high-speed rail network promises enhanced connectivity and economic growth, the importance of community input in large-scale infrastructure projects remains paramount.

The recent developments indicate a significant step forward, although the final resolution of all disputes, particularly compensation claims, remains pending.