Thailand approves US$9.8 billion high-speed rail expansion

Puntid TantivangphaisalThursday, February 6, 2025Last Updated: Thursday, February 6, 2025

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Thailand approves US.8 billion high-speed rail expansion

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail

Thailand is racing ahead with its high-speed rail ambitions as the Cabinet greenlights the second phase of the Thailand-China High-Speed Rail Project, extending the line from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai.

The colossal 341.35 billion baht (US$9.8 billion) project will span 357 kilometres and take eight years to complete, from 2025 to 2032. Once operational, it will provide a direct link between Bangkok and Nong Khai, seamlessly connecting to the Laos-China Railway and strengthening regional transport infrastructure.

The expanded route will feature five key stations in Bua Yai, Ban Phai, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, and Nong Khai. Additionally, a cargo transfer hub in Nong Khai will enhance logistics between Thailand and China, bridging Thailand’s narrow-gauge rail system with the standard-gauge network of the Laos-China Railway.

The Ministry of Transport has been tasked with securing funding through the national budget or government-backed loans, while the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) will oversee implementation. Officials have also been ordered to fast-track land approvals, electricity infrastructure expansion, and private sector investment under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

Despite the progress, concerns remain over the delayed first phase, which links Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima. Originally planned for earlier completion, Phase 1 is expected to be finished in 2028. The Cabinet has urged the Ministry of Transport and SRT to accelerate construction and provide updates on feasibility studies and long-term economic viability.

With Thailand’s high-speed rail network finally gaining momentum, the government is pushing to transform regional connectivity and strengthen trade ties with China, reported Pattaya Mail.

Thailand approves US$9.8 billion high-speed rail expansion | News by Thaiger — Photo courtesy of The Investor

The Thailand-China High-Speed Rail Project is a major infrastructure initiative aimed at improving connectivity between Bangkok and Nong Khai, linking Thailand’s rail network to the Laos-China Railway. The project is divided into two phases.

Phase 1, which covers the Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima route spanning 253 kilometres, began construction in 2017 but has faced significant delays. Originally planned for earlier completion, it is now expected to be finished by 2028. This phase is crucial as it sets the foundation for extending the route to the Thai-Lao border.

Puntid Tantivangphaisal

Originally from Hong Kong, Puntid moved to Bangkok in 2020 to pursue further studies in translation. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Hong Kong. Puntid spent 8 years living in Manchester, UK. Before joining The Thaiger, Puntid has been a freelance translator for 2 years. In her free time, she enjoys swimming and listening to music, as well as writing short fiction and poetry.