BANGKOK, 23 March 2011 (NNT)– Chairman of the Committee on Transportation Mr. Kecha Saksomboon has expressed his concerns over the high speed train project, citing that it will not be able to proceed in this government.
Mr. Kecha said Transport Minister Sophon Sarum and himself have always followed up on the latest development on the train project between Thailand and China. He added that the first line to be built between Bangkok and Nong Khai could be delayed.
The first high speed rail line will be approximately 615 kilometers long at an expense of over 150 billion baht. The Chairman further elaborated that the construction would be ready to take off in the next government.
He has also urged the Ministry of Transport to expedite the project soon particularly with regards to the drafting of terms of references for the shareholders. Thailand is expected to hold at least 51% shares with the rest taken up by China.
Meanwhile, the Transport Minister said the Ministry is currently in the preparation process before entering the talk with China. The Memorandum of Understanding between Thailand and China over the high speed train project is expected to be deliberated and negotiated between representatives from the two countries early next month.
