A gleaming replica of a high-speed train, a harbinger of the future Thai-Sino rail connection that aims to link Bangkok to the Northeast, stands ready. This is a vision set to revolutionize travel across Thailand. As of now, all eyes are on Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote. He feverishly seeks the nod of approval from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on a pivotal construction contract under the State Railway of Thailand (SRT)’s ambitious high-speed train project.
This essential contract, dubbed Contract 4-5, covers a critical 13.3-kilometre stretch in the first phase of the cross-country rail initiative. The fortunate recipient of this contract is Boonchai Panich Co, having won through a competitive bidding process. Yet, the signing of this contract remains in limbo, entangled in debates over its strategic location near Ayutthaya Station.
Ayutthaya Station, found a mere 1.5 kilometers from the storied Ayutthaya Historical Park, has become the fulcrum of this controversy. While the proposed route cleverly avoids slicing through the UNESCO World Heritage site directly, its close proximity has nevertheless ignited a whirlwind of public concern.
Minister Surapong explained that these apprehensions have prompted the SRT to proactively consult with UNESCO and the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (Onep). The goal? To carry out an in-depth Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) on the proposed construction. This meticulous assessment is complete, and the resultant report is currently under the discerning eye of UNESCO for further review.
The SRT, determined to allay any fears, has made a significant concession by agreeing to reduce the height of the elevated train track in this delicate section. Instead of the original 19 meters, the track will now rise to a slightly less imposing 17 meters. However, the SRT draws the line at relocating the planned route. Moving it would not only blow the budget completely out of the water but also delay the project by an additional decade—a scenario deemed unacceptable.
Surapong succinctly pointed out that the SRT has already responded comprehensively to UNESCO’s recommendations and simply cannot justify any further postponement of the 9.91-billion-baht construction plan. Time is of the essence, and he is ardent in his desire to have the construction contract signed by October—a milestone that hinges on the PM’s approval. He is poised to initiate discussions with Ms. Paetongtarn at the earliest opportunity.
In an unwavering tone, Surapong declared, “Regardless of UNESCO’s final stance, the high-speed train project will press on without altering its initial construction plan. Relocations are off the table.” This statement underscores the grit and determination behind this transformative project, set to bridge regions, boost economies, and cut travel time dramatically. Thailand’s high-speed rail future is, quite literally, on the horizon.
This high-speed rail is long overdue. Thailand NEEDS this to modernize our infrastructure!
Mae1950, do you realize the environmental and cultural damage this might cause?
Somsak, the benefits outweigh the costs. We need to prioritize progress.
June, how about preserving our heritage for future generations? That’s progress too.
Preserving heritage is important, Larry, but so is economic development.
Mae1950, it’s not just about modernization. The Ayutthaya site is priceless!
Surapong’s determination is commendable. Finally, someone with vision!
Joe G, vision without respect for our culture is just short-sightedness.
Joe G, I agree but there’s always a balance to be found.
Skydiver32, true, but delays are killing our progress.
Why not reroute the track and avoid all this hassle?
Pat, rerouting would cost way more and delay the project by a decade. That’s not feasible.
BangkokBob, better safe than sorry, especially when it comes to World Heritage Sites.
Pat, Bob is right. It’s a trade-off we have to accept.
UNESCO should have the final say. They know what’s best for Ayutthaya.
EcoWarrior, they don’t live here. How can they know what’s best for us?
Chai, UNESCO’s guidelines are meant to protect heritage sites globally.
Chai, global standards exist for a reason. We can’t ignore them.
The government should listen more to the people living in Ayutthaya.
Imagine the tourism boost with this rail! Getting to Ayutthaya in record time.
This project is great, but cutting 2 meters off the height is hardly a solution!
Kevin H, but it’s a step in the right direction. Compromise is key.
Gigi, compromising on our heritage isn’t worth it.
Ayutthaya’s historical integrity should be non-negotiable.
If they move the rail, I bet it’ll end up costing twice as much.
I think we should trust the experts here. SRT knows what they’re doing.
I’m all for progress, but what about the local communities affected by this project?
You can’t make an omelet without breaking eggs. It’ll be worth it in the long run!
Poochie, what if those ‘eggs’ are irreplaceable historic sites?
Skydiver32, history is important, but at some point, we have to move forward.
This sounds like a ploy for big companies to make more money.
Tonya, infrastructure projects always involve big companies. Doesn’t mean they’re all bad.
Once completed, this rail could revolutionize travel in Thailand. Exciting times ahead!