Train models are displayed at Asia Pacific Rail 2023 at Bitec Bangkok. (Photo: Somchai Poomlard)
The State Railway of Thailand’s (SRT) newly appointed director, Veeris Ammarapala, has been given a monumental task: completing the high-speed Sino-Thai railway project by the first quarter of next year. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced on Wednesday that Veeris will establish his policies for the SRT by early next month, now that the cabinet has greenlit his appointment.
Veeris’s primary objectives are no small feats. One of his main goals is to clear the SRT’s staggering 230-billion-baht debt. Add to that the daunting task of transforming Thailand’s logistics landscape by shifting the primary mode of transportation from road to rail, a move that aligns with the government’s preference for rail transport.
The Transport Ministry has also directed the SRT to swiftly find a private bidder to complete the second phase of the double-track railway project. This colossal undertaking, valued at 298 billion baht, encompasses six routes, revealed Minister Suriya.
Moreover, there’s an urgency to speed up the construction of the 356-kilometre Nakhon Ratchasima-Nong Khai section of the Sino-Thai high-speed railway project. With a budget of 341.35 billion baht, the goal is to have it finished by the first quarter of next year. The SRT’s responsibility also includes securing a private company that will receive the concession to operate this railway.
“In 2025, Thailand and China will mark 50 years of diplomatic relations,” cited Minister Suriya. “Hence, it is imperative for the SRT to expedite the completion of both phases of the Sino-Thai high-speed railway project.”
The project’s inaugural phase involves a 250-kilometre stretch that connects Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima. The extension from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai represents the second phase of this ambitious endeavor. Both sections are expected to be fully operational by 2028, ushering in a new era of rapid rail transit in Thailand.
Veeris Ammarapala is setting himself up for failure. Clearing a 230-billion baht debt and completing the high-speed railway? That’s nonsense!
Seriously, Larry? Have some faith. Infrastructure projects like this can transform economies.
Joe, I think Larry has a point. The debt alone is a massive hurdle.
Thank you, Sarah. Joe, realism isn’t negativity; it’s pragmatism.
The project’s ambition is impressive, but there’s too much at stake financially.
High-speed trains in Thailand? Finally! It’s about time we caught up with Japan and China.
China’s involvement in our infrastructure is problematic. Are we becoming too dependent on them?
Dependency or partnership? It’s a matter of perspective.
Partnering with China means benefiting from their experience. I see no issue.
Experience, yes. But economic and political consequences should be considered too.
Why are we investing so much in rail when road transport is more flexible?
Because rail is more sustainable and efficient for mass transit.
Sure, but is it worth the massive debt burden?
Transforming logistics through rail will significantly reduce carbon emissions.
The government should focus on fixing existing infrastructure first before jumping into new projects.
People underestimate the long-term benefits of a high-speed rail network. It’s an investment in the future.
It’s an investment with risks! We shouldn’t dismiss the potential financial fallout.
Every significant project has risks. The key is to manage them effectively.
Projects like these always run over budget and take longer than expected. I’m skeptical.
It’s easy to be skeptical, but without ambition, nothing gets done.
In 2028, will we really look back and say this was worth it? Only time will tell.
Clearing a 230-billion-baht debt while building high-speed rails seems counterproductive.
Tourism will get a huge boost if these trains are a success. Imagine getting from Bangkok to Nong Khai in no time!
Environmental benefits alone make this project worthwhile. We can’t ignore that.
I agree with Helen on this one. Reducing emissions is critical.
We also need to think about job creation. A project this big can create thousands of jobs.
But what happens to those jobs once the project is completed?
Maintenance, operations, and expansions will keep many employed for years.
Do we really trust the SRT to handle a project of this magnitude?
It’s a great idea, but execution will be key. Thai infrastructure projects have a poor track record of finishing on time.
Let’s give Veeris Ammarapala a chance before dismissing him outright. Every new leader deserves an opportunity.