In an ambitious effort to revolutionize Thailand’s transport infrastructure, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is ready to turbocharge its freight services, creating a faster and more efficient connection between Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri and the bustling city of Bangkok. At the helm of this strategic endeavor is SRT Governor Veeris Ammarapala, who along with his team, visited the deep-sea port and the Inland Container Depot (ICD) in Bangkok’s Lat Krabang district on February 12, determined to eliminate any bottlenecks hindering this vital logistics corridor.
Currently, 24 freight trains traverse daily between Laem Chabang and Lat Krabang ICD, but Veeris has his sights set on increasing that number to a robust 30 trains a day. In 2024, the route saw a staggering 465,329 TEUs (20-foot equivalent units) transported, accounting for a whopping 8,622 trains laden with goods. This inspection mission comes as a timely move as Thailand braces for a boom in both industrial output and international trade demands.
Despite the ambitious plans, it’s not all smooth sailing for the Lat Krabang ICD, which faces frustrating delays in loading, unloading, and carriage rotations. The SRT is gearing up to partner with other industry players to smooth these wrinkles. The Lat Krabang hub, spread over a sprawling 645 rai, currently manages a massive 600,000 TEUs annually and still has room to grow further.
Veeris is optimistic about the potential of rail freight, highlighting its superior efficiency, cost-effectiveness, energy savings, and safety when compared to road freight, thanks to its larger cargo capacity. Enhancing the facilities at both Laem Chabang Port and Lat Krabang ICD aligns with ongoing government initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth.
The SRT’s enthusiastic march towards reforming freight services not only promises greater operational efficiency but also rings in a potential economic renaissance for the nation. With these rail network enhancements, Thailand is on course for a dynamic shift in its freight landscape, promising businesses a more reliable and cost-effective alternative.
Meanwhile, on another strategic front, the SRT has expressed readiness to take control of the high-speed rail (HSR) project that will connect Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and U-Tapao airports, should the current contractor fall short. After a five-year delay, the project, currently under the management of Asia Era One, a joint venture involving CP Group, could transition to SRT if recommended by the Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee (EECP). Veeris’s readiness to step in reaffirms SRT’s commitment to spearhead transformative rail projects that align with future growth trajectories.
As Thailand continues to push the envelope on its transport and logistics capabilities, the proactive measures adopted by the SRT are set to pave the way for a smarter, more connected future. With the engines of progress now at full throttle, the transformation of Thailand’s freight network could very well define the next chapter in the country’s economic narrative.
I think this expansion is fantastic for Thailand’s economy!
Sure, but what about the environmental impact? More trains could mean more noise and pollution in those areas.
That’s a valid concern, Sarah. However, trains are generally more environmentally friendly than trucks when it comes to freight.
Exactly, Joe! Trains consume less fuel per ton of cargo than trucks. It’s a step forward.
We also have to think about the jobs this will create for locals in maintenance and operations!
I worry that focusing too much on rail might neglect necessary improvements to road transport.
Does anyone remember how long the existing Laem Chabang to Bangkok route took to complete?
It took several years due to bureaucratic delays and funding issues.
Thanks, Gary. Hope this new plan avoids those roadblocks.
The integration of rail and high-speed rail projects could make Thailand a logistics hub for Southeast Asia!
But high-speed rail could be too costly for freight. Am I wrong?
I live near Lat Krabang, and more trains would mean more careers in my area.
And not just in your area, Amanda. Regional development is likely across the board.
True, but local impact feels more immediate to me.
Why is SRT only acting now? These infrastructure needs have been there for years!
Late start is better than never, right? It’s a challenging landscape.
Isn’t it always ‘better late than never’ with them? We need more proactive measures.
This kind of infrastructure lays the groundwork for long-term economic benefits!
Provided the execution doesn’t flop like other projects in the past.
Veeris Ammarapala seems like he knows what he’s doing. Let’s hope he succeeds.
Can the SRT really handle the high-speed rail if they take over? Their track record isn’t exactly spotless.
This is gonna change life in Bangkok. New jobs, more trade, etc.
How about improving the passenger trains while they’re at it?
Rail freight is overdue. If they actually pull this off, it could be revolutionary!
I’ll believe it when I see it. Many promises unfulfilled over the years.
Don’t forget about the potential for reduced traffic on roads, which could be a blessing for the environment.