BANGKOK, 25 January 2013 The MRT blue line extension from Sanam Chai to Tha Phra stations will proceed after Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra yesterday introduced a tunnel boring machine capable of excavating tunnels beneath the Chao Phraya River.
Prime Minister Yingluck on Thursday presided over the opening ceremony of the MRT Blue Line extension construction, where a tunnel boring machine was introduced, aiming to help Thailand carry on its MRT projects. The machine will dig a tunnel under the Chao Phraya River. It will be the first MRT line that goes under the water level.
According to Ms Yingluck, the new MRT route will help ease heavy traffic and enhance the country’s transportation system.
Other than the blue line extension, Ms Yingluck also held a talk with Transport Minister Chatchart Sittipan regarding other MRT projects. After the talk, the transport minister said the MRT projects were part of Ms Yingluck’s plan to improve the quality of life of the residents, especially those who have low income. He said the Prime Minister wanted the MRT project to be completed as scheduled, given chronic traffic congestion has put Bangkokians under severe strain for years.
