Thailand on track to invest 77 billion baht in new light rail systems

Plans are underway for the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) to introduce a light rail system in Phuket, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Phitsanulok, with an overall budget of 77 billion baht.

MRTA Deputy Governor Wittaya Phanmongkol revealed that the estimated costs of the projects are 35 billion baht for Phuket, 30 billion baht for Chiang Mai, 7 billion baht for Nakhon Ratchasima, and approximately 5 billion baht for Phitsanulok.

“Comparison studies on different project models and investment options will be submitted to the Office of the Commission for the Management of Road Traffic.”

The MRTA anticipates starting the bidding process for these projects in 2026, aiming to complete it by 2027. Construction is expected to commence around 2028.

Wittaya also shared details about the ongoing development of the 22-kilometre Brown Line, which will connect Khae Rai in Nonthaburi to Lam Sali (Bueng Kum) in Bangkok. This 42-billion-baht project is currently under review, with a 20-baht flat fare policy being considered.

“The study is expected to wrap up and be submitted to the new MRTA board soon.”

Bidding for the Brown Line’s construction is projected to take place in 2025, with construction set to begin in 2026. The line is expected to start operations in 2029.

Since its establishment 32 years ago, the MRTA has launched four electric train lines covering nearly all areas of Bangkok, spanning a total distance of approximately 150 kilometres.

These include the Blue Line from Bang Sue-Hua Lamphong to Lak Song, the Purple Line from Tao Poon to Khlong Bang Phai, the Yellow Line from Lat Phrao to Samrong, and the Pink Line from Khae Rai to Min Buri.

Three extensions are currently under construction: the Si Rat-Mueang Thong Thani section of the Pink Line, the Tao Poon-Rat Burana section of the Purple Line, and the western section of the Orange Line from Bang Khun Non to the Thailand Cultural Centre.

The Pink Line extension is slated for completion by mid-2025, while the Purple Line extension is expected to be ready by 2028. However, the construction of the Orange Line’s western section poses significant challenges, as it will traverse central Bangkok, and historic areas, and cross the Chao Phraya River.

“Construction of the Orange Line western section is quite difficult.”

Additionally, the MRTA plans to transfer plots of public land currently managed by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to private contractors starting this year, reported Bangkok Post.