Thailand launches massive transport investment programme

The Thai Ministry of Transport has launched a THB 2.68tr (USD 81bn) transport investment programme to improve and expand the country’s transport infrastructure and support sustainable logistics. The focus is on reducing road congestion and greenhouse gas emissions. Plans include deploying over 4600 electric buses in Bangkok by the end of 2025, expanding electric rail networks in the capital to reach 554km, and introducing a unified ticketing system and flat THB 20 fare by September 2025. 

 

Electric rail proposals include LRT systems in Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen and Phuket. Chang Mai is planning a 35km tramway with three lines, Khon Kaen wants a 22.6km light rail line and has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Chinese CRRC, while Phuket has planned a 58.6km LRT linking the city and the international airport. This may be an automated elevated line. Bangkok has two different metro systems, the 64.5km two-line MTS Skytrain (completely elevated) and the 44km underground MRT lines. There are also two monorail lines and a 28km elevated airport rail link and a 1.72km automatic people-mover. Expansion is planned to all these systems. 

 

The announcement means that these projects are now certain to go ahead. The investment programme also covers high-speed rail and port expansion.