On November 22, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) hosted a meeting with the Senate Transport Commission at its Command Building in Bangkok to review progress on key projects and outline future strategies. The session, led by Senate Transport Commission Chairman Wuttichart Kalyanamitr, focused on infrastructure upgrades, service expansion, and efforts to position Thailand as a regional transportation hub by enhancing its rail network.
SRT Governor Weerith Amrapal highlighted the ongoing modernization of Thailand’s railway infrastructure, emphasizing its dual goals: increasing efficiency in passenger and freight transport while fostering economic growth through reduced transportation costs. In 2024, SRT carried an estimated 30.87 million passengers and generated over 3.92 billion baht in revenue. Freight operations, with 62 daily trains, moved 12.8 million tons of cargo, contributing over 2.12 billion baht.
Major Projects Driving Rail Development
Significant infrastructure advancements were discussed, including the express dual-track railway network, with five of seven routes already operational. Two additional routes, including the Lopburi-Pak Nam Pho section, are slated to open during the New Year 2025 festival. These expansions aim to streamline connectivity and reduce travel times across the country.
Other major projects under construction include two new railway lines: the Denchai-Chiang Rai-Chiang Khong route and the Ban Phai-Maha Sarakham-Roi Et-Mukdahan-Nakhon Phanom route, covering a combined 677 kilometers. The Thai-China high-speed rail project is also progressing, with its first phase—linking Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima—expected to launch in 2028.
To support these expansions, SRT is modernizing its rolling stock by acquiring 113 diesel-electric locomotives and 184 hybrid diesel vehicles to replace aging equipment and increase freight capacity.
Enhancing Revenue Streams and Expanding Services
SRT also reported rental income exceeding 3.98 billion baht in 2024, with plans to boost future revenue through its subsidiary, SRT Asset Co., Ltd., which manages railway properties. Meanwhile, suburban rail services on Bangkok’s Red Line, encompassing the Northern Line (Bang Sue–Rangsit) and the Southern Line (Bang Sue–Taling Chan), continue to enhance urban mobility.
Vision for a Regional Hub
Weerith affirmed SRT’s commitment to leveraging feedback from the Senate Transport Commission to align its development with the policy of “Transportation for Thailand’s Opportunities.” The ultimate goal is to create a comprehensive, fair, and sustainable transport network that positions Thailand as a key player in regional logistics.
