Thailand partners with Turkey to build high-speed rail empire
Thailand is gearing up to transform its rail landscape by partnering with Turkey’s state-owned train manufacturer, Türasaş, in a bold step towards high-speed travel. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit revealed on Monday, November 18, that the collaboration aims to boost Thailand’s transport sector and establish a domestic rail manufacturing industry.
During his recent visit to Türasaş’s Sakarya facility in Turkey, Suriya held discussions with Türasaş CEO Osman Boyraz.
“Thailand will need to procure many locomotives and trains in the future, and the ability to design and manufacture trains locally with world-class technology will be crucial.”
This partnership is set to equip Thailand with critical expertise to build a cost-effective and efficient high-speed rail network that’s fit for the future.
Turkey’s Türasaş, known for its work with top rail companies like Hyundai, Alstom, and Siemens, has proven expertise in cutting production costs by using 75% locally sourced parts, slashing expenses by up to 20% compared to imported options.
The company’s track record includes developing an electric train with Blue Engineering in 2019, achieving speeds of 160 kilometres per hour to meet European standards.
The collaboration aligns with Thailand’s ambitious infrastructure plans, including the Bangkok-Nakhon Ratchasima line, part of a dual-track system linking major cities, said Deputy Prime Minister Suriya.
“This project will boost the economy and make Thailand a regional transport hub.”
With its status as a regional automotive powerhouse, Thailand brings expertise in components and skilled labour to the table, making it well-suited for a burgeoning rail industry.
This joint venture not only promises to bolster the State Railway of Thailand (SRT)’s income through local sales and exports but could also carve out new opportunities for local parts manufacturers, setting the stage for sustainable growth in Thailand’s rail sector, reported The Nation.
In related news, plans for a game-changing rail link to Phuket are gathering steam but officials are staying tight-lipped. Phang Nga Governor Supoj Rotreuang Na Nongkhai has just held a high-level meeting to review the ambitious project connecting Tha Noon in Takua Thung district to Phuket International Airport.
