In a move that’s set to revolutionize northern travel in Thailand, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) chief, Veeris Ammarapala, recently took a grand tour of the latest upgrades on the tracks stretching between Khok Kathiam and Pak Nam Pho. With the literal crunch of gravel and steel underfoot, Veeris inaugurated the shiny new double-track that promises to whisk more trains, more swiftly, to and from the North.
This upgrade isn’t just a standalone showpiece, but a pivotal chapter in a grander vision. The Northern Line is having a whole Cinderella transformation, with the section between Ban Klap station in Saraburi and Pak Nam Pho in Nakhon Sawan getting a snazzy upgrade to double tracks, all to boost its traffic prowess.
Spanning a daunting 148 kilometers, this route meanders through 19 stations and flashes past five halts, whispering tales of destinations yet unexplored. But that’s not all; a bustling new central traffic control center is set to rise in Nakhon Sawan, alongside a busy-yard-for-business freight container setup at Khao Thong station.
Oh, and did we mention the headline act? A stretch that could make any train enthusiast giddy—the longest elevated railway in the Kingdom, stretching majestically for 19 kilometers between Ban Klap and Khok Kathiam stations. Imagine that; it’s like riding above the clouds—or at the very least, the rooftops.
Adding to the excitement is a new stop on the map. Slated to open its doors in December, Lop Buri 2 station cozily snuggles alongside Highway 366, ready to welcome passengers with open arms—or, well, open doors.
The grand design of this project is unveiled across three contracts: Contract 1 covers the initial 32-kilometer stretch from Ban Klap to Khok Kathiam, and the birth of Lop Buri 2 station. Meanwhile, Contract 2 takes on a hefty 116-kilometer section from Tha Khae to Pak Nam Pho, and Contract 3 sprinkles magic dust with a state-of-the-art signaling system expected to wave its wand by next January.
The freshly minted double-track is already making waves, with SRT on the verge of breathing new life—and schedules—into five Northern Line trains starting this Friday. So if you’re catching a ride on the Rapid Train 102 from the picturesque Chiang Mai to the vibrant heart of Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Station, or taking the Ordinary Train 207 journeying from the bustling Bangkok (Hua Lamphong) up to serene Nakhon Sawan, prepare for a smoother, faster voyage.
And let’s not overlook the faithful Ordinary Train 210, marking its memorable journey from Ban Takhli down to Bangkok, or its sibling, Ordinary Train 211, which weaves its way from Bangkok to Taphan Hin. Lastly, the Local Train 408 might be the underdog, but it heroically connects Chiang Mai to Nakhon Sawan, ensuring everyone gets a taste of traditional Thai train travel.
This grand opening heralds not just operational tracks, but a pathway into a future where northern Thai rail travel glides effortlessly over its newly minted ribbons of steel. The excitement is real, and the engines are revving up for a new era of speed, efficiency, and adventure on the rails. Welcome aboard!
This is fantastic news! It’s about time Thailand upgrades its railway infrastructure.
Totally agree! The Northern Line has been overdue for an upgrade.
Yes, and it seems like this will really boost regional tourism too.
I just hope this doesn’t increase ticket prices. That would be a real bummer.
But are these upgrades really going to improve punctuality and safety, or is this just a cosmetic change?
I think the focus on a new signaling system should address safety concerns.
Let’s hope so. Too many railway projects ignore these critical issues.
I’m excited for Lop Buri 2 station. New stations often bring revitalization to the area!
Why invest so much in railways when roads and highways are equally important?
Well, railways are more sustainable and can greatly reduce traffic congestion.
Rail travel is efficient and environmentally friendly. More countries should focus on railways.
Wow, the longest elevated railway in Thailand sounds promising! Can’t wait to check it out.
Elevated tracks are a great way to minimize land disruption.
I’ve traveled on the Northern Line before; these upgrades are much needed. The comfort level was meh.
Upgrades might fix comfort, but they need to focus on timing too.
I heard they are planning to improve the trains themselves as well.
Are there any measures for the impact on local communities during construction of these massive projects?
Good question! Social impact studies should have been conducted.
These projects often overlook local communities, focusing mainly on economic gains.
Can’t wait for smoother rides on the Chiang Mai route. The scenery is beautiful and a smooth ride will make it more enjoyable.
Chiang Mai is indeed spectacular. It’s about time the train quality matched the views!
The ride has always been bumpy, hopefully these upgrades change that.
Double tracks can definitely increase the number of trains running, but what about maintaining them?
The central traffic control center sounds like a tech startup’s dream! Efficient on so many levels.
Interesting point! Tech innovation in railways is essential for progress.