UNESCO experts to assess Ayutthaya rail project impact
UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee will send experts to review the high-speed rail track construction project in Ayutthaya next month. The visit aims to discuss the Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) with the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) and provide technical recommendations for preserving the integrity of the world heritage site.
These experts, while offering guidance, do not have the power to halt the construction of the Ayutthaya station, which is situated 1.5 kilometres from the Ayutthaya Historical Park. UNESCO has not called for a cessation of the construction; instead, it has mandated the SRT to conduct an HIA while allowing the project to progress.
Contracts for the 13.3-kilometre Ban Pho-Phra Kaeo rail track in Ayutthaya are anticipated to be signed soon between the Transport Ministry and the contractor, Boonchaipanich. The signing will be reported to Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, who now oversees the SRT operations, following Deputy Minister Surapong Piyachote.
This section is part of the extensive 700-kilometre Sino-Thai high-speed rail project connecting Bangkok to Nong Khai. The Transport Ministry plans to employ a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Gross Cost Investment model for the entire project, drawing inspiration from the MRT’s Purple Line, with a projected budget of 80 billion baht.
The PPP model aims to regulate fares, building on the success of the 20-baht flat rate policy implemented on the Purple and Red lines. The ministry also intends to propose the project’s second phase, covering 357.12 kilometres from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai, to the Cabinet soon.
“The experts are expected to provide valuable insights on maintaining the site’s heritage value while allowing the development to proceed.”
The high-speed rail project is seen as a significant development in Thailand’s transport infrastructure, aiming to enhance connectivity and economic growth. However, balancing this progress with the preservation of cultural heritage remains crucial.
The engagement of UNESCO experts underscores the importance of safeguarding the historical significance of Ayutthaya while integrating modern advancements, reported Bangkok Post.
“This project not only represents a leap forward in transportation but also a challenge in conserving our historical and cultural landmarks.”
What Other Media Are Saying
- UNESCO highlights Ayutthaya’s historical significance as a cosmopolitan capital, its advanced urban planning, and the ongoing efforts for conservation, reflecting its outstanding universal value and cultural heritage. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why is the Heritage Impact Assessment crucial for Ayutthaya’s high-speed rail project?
It ensures the rail project respects Ayutthaya’s cultural significance, balancing development with heritage conservation.
How might the PPP model influence Thailand’s high-speed rail project’s success?
The PPP model aims to manage costs and regulate fares, potentially increasing project viability and public acceptance.
What if the high-speed rail impacts Ayutthaya Historical Park’s integrity despite precautions?
Unintended impacts could prompt further assessments and necessitate mitigation strategies to preserve the site’s heritage.
How do modern infrastructure projects coexist with historical preservation in Thailand?
Through collaborative efforts and assessments like the HIA, ensuring development aligns with cultural preservation goals.
What lessons can other countries learn from Thailand’s approach to heritage and development?
Balancing infrastructure progress with cultural conservation, involving international expertise to guide sustainable practices.
