BANGKOK, 12 Feb 2014, The Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning has prepared four high speed train projects to be proposed to the next government despite the fact that the current administration’s 2.2 Trillion baht infrastructure development projects have been put on hold.
The office’s Director Chula Sukhamanop stated that the four projects include the construction of high speed train routes linking Bangkok to four prominent provinces in different regions which include Chiang Mai, Nong Khai, Hua Hin and Rayong.
Mr. Chula said that the plan had been established since the inception of the government’s 2.2 Trillion baht loan bill, adding that, despite the mega projects being on hold at the moment, his office had decided to keep the prospect opened. Mr. Chula reported on the latest developments concerning the Bangkok-Chiang Mai high speed train route, saying that the route had been divided into two parts: Bangkok – Phitsanulok and Phitsanulok-Chiang Mai. He said that the office had completed public opinion polls and is orchestrating the Environmental Impact Assessment for the first stage. Mr. Chula said public feedback surveys are currently being conducted for the latter section.
The pre-construction surveys and studies for the Phitsanulok-Chiang Mai route are expected to be completed this year. Director Chula said his office would gradually complete the necessary studies for the projects, adding that once a new Transport Minister is installed the project would be ready for proposal and implementation.
