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Bangkok’s Light Red Line Merger: SRT Aims for Cost Efficiency and Improved Connectivity

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Red Line electric commuter trains gracefully glide into Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal in Bangkok, a symbol of progress and urban connectivity. (Photo: Pattarapong Chatpattarasill)

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is laying the groundwork for an ambitious merger of two extensions of the Light Red Line mass transit project. This strategic move is designed to streamline operations and cut costs by addressing overlapping areas in the Taling Chan district, perched on the western frontier of Bangkok. SRT’s deputy governor, Anan Phonimdang, revealed that the Taling Chan-Salaya and Taling Chan-Siriraj sections would meld into a unified project, obliterating redundancy and bolstering efficiency.

The merger, already rubber-stamped by the state enterprise’s board, stands to expedite not only the acquisition of necessary land but also the subsequent construction and system installations. The Taling Chan-Salaya route stretches 14.8 kilometers and is dotted with six stations: Phra Ram 6, Bang Kruai-Egat, Ban Chim Phli, Kanchanaphisek, Sala Thammasop, and Salaya. Meanwhile, the 5.7-kilometer Taling Chan-Siriraj line features three charming stops: Taling Chan Floating Market, Charan Sanitwong, and Thon Buri-Siriraj.

Mr. Anan noted that merging these projects is expected to slightly whittle down the total costs from 15.3 billion baht to 15.1 billion baht, with a single contractor steering the venture. The streamlined proposal is slated to be presented to the cabinet for careful consideration next month, marking a significant milestone in the project’s timeline.

Once given the green light, Mr. Anan projects it will take about eight months to finalize the bids for a contractor and project consultants. If all goes according to plan, construction could kick off as early as May next year, with a completion target set for 36 months. Commuters can mark their calendars for May 2028, when operations are expected to commence, heralding a new era of convenience and connectivity.

In another exciting development, Mr. Anan shared that the SRT board has greenlit a plan to commission a consultant for a comprehensive review of a separate 33.16-kilometer commuter rail project linking Wong Wian Yai in Bangkok with Mahachai in Samut Sakhon province. This consultancy, pegged at 135.6 million baht, will delve into the design, environmental impact, and terms of reference for this proposed line.

However, there’s a twist. The board has instructed the SRT to first engage in discussions with the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) at the Ministry of Transport. The OTP has previously recommended a fresh study if the SRT intends to proceed with the Wong Wian Yai-Mahachai route, fondly referred to as the Dark Red Line, as certain sections might necessitate elevation.

Additionally, Mr. Anan disclosed that the SRT will also collaborate with the Department of Rail Transport on a proposed 3.4-kilometer connection between Hua Lamphong and Wong Wian Yai, aiming to further enhance the city’s transit network. These developments map out a future where Bangkok’s urban landscape is intricately interconnected, promising smoother, faster, and more efficient commutes for all.

31 Comments

  1. AnnaB July 30, 2024

    This merger is a big win for Bangkok’s transit system. Finally, some sense in urban planning!

    • metroboy2020 July 30, 2024

      Is it really? The cost savings seem minimal. Over 15 billion baht to save just 0.2 billion?

      • AnnaB July 30, 2024

        Every baht saved counts! Plus, it’s not just about the money. It’s about efficiency and reducing redundancies.

  2. JonD July 30, 2024

    Streamlining operations is always good, but what about the disruptions caused during construction?

    • Sam W. July 30, 2024

      Good point, JonD. Commutes are already a nightmare. Imagine adding construction chaos to that!

    • AnnaB July 30, 2024

      Construction is inconvenient, but the long-term benefits outweigh the temporary disruptions. Think about how much smoother it will be once it’s finished.

  3. PloyPatcha July 30, 2024

    I commute from Taling Chan every day. This merger sounds like my prayers have been answered.

    • DrTran July 30, 2024

      I hope they also improve station facilities. Merging is great, but the current stations aren’t exactly comfortable.

      • ken_up July 30, 2024

        Agreed! A facelift for the stations is a must.

      • PloyPatcha July 30, 2024

        Better stations would be a dream come true. We deserve it for the fares we pay!

  4. ترام July 30, 2024

    Merging projects always have hidden costs. I doubt this will be any different.

    • Sarah.T July 30, 2024

      If the hidden costs mean better service, I’m all for it.

  5. Earth July 30, 2024

    By the time they finish, the tech will be outdated. They should plan for the future, not just the present.

    • TangMo July 30, 2024

      That’s an overstatement. Modern transit systems always adapt. This is a step forward.

    • binh234 July 30, 2024

      True, but only if they include options for future upgrades. Look at other cities that got stuck with old tech.

  6. Phil Long July 30, 2024

    Interesting angle with the Wong Wian Yai-Mahachai route. That’s long overdue.

    • Nui July 30, 2024

      But they need to sort out the environmental impact first. No point in ruining the area for convenience.

      • Phil Long July 30, 2024

        Right, but with proper planning, they can minimize environmental harm. Development and conservation can go hand in hand.

      • delphin2 July 30, 2024

        I’m skeptical. Big projects like these often overlook the finer details of environmental concerns.

  7. LeoD July 30, 2024

    I’m glad the SRT is finally taking urban connectivity seriously.

  8. Carlos July 30, 2024

    I wish they would just finish one project before starting another. It feels like they are spreading themselves too thin.

  9. MeteorKing July 30, 2024

    While the merger is great, I’m worried about delays. These things always take longer than expected.

    • Tukta July 30, 2024

      True, but if they manage to follow the timeline, it could be a game-changer for Bangkok’s commuters.

  10. RaviP July 30, 2024

    How does this affect the current traffic? Will they have alternate routes planned?

    • Ming July 30, 2024

      Usually, they plan for detours and alternate routes, but it’s never seamless. Expect delays.

  11. HiddenEagle July 30, 2024

    Anyone know why the cost savings are so minimal? Shouldn’t merging save more?

  12. Sadao July 30, 2024

    With population growth, this is not just necessary, it’s essential for Bangkok’s future.

  13. Grower134 July 30, 2024

    The last time they merged projects, the quality suffered. Hope they do a better job this time.

    • AnnaB July 30, 2024

      Let’s give them the benefit of the doubt. They have learned from past mistakes, hopefully.

  14. Kanchana July 30, 2024

    By 2028, Bangkok’s transit will finally be on par with other major cities. About time!

  15. Kong July 30, 2024

    Doesn’t the government have better things to spend money on? This seems excessive.

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