Thailand has approved the second phase of the Thai-Chinese high-speed railway project, extending from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai in the country’s northeast.
Spanning 357.12 kilometres, the project requires an investment of 341.35 billion baht (USD 10 billion) and is scheduled for construction over eight years, from 2025 to 2032. The Government will finance the project, with the Cabinet instructing the Bureau of the Budget to allocate funds and the Ministry of Finance to explore funding sources.
According to the State Railway of Thailand, the second phase of the high-speed railway project is divided into two components. The first, comprising civil engineering works at a cost of approximately 335.7 billion baht (USD 9.9 billion), includes five stations: Bua Yai, Ban Phai, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, and Nong Khai. Completion is expected by 2032.
The second component involves constructing a transshipment centre in Nong Khai, valued at 5.7 billion baht (USD 168 million). Designed as a one-stop logistics hub, the facility aims to streamline freight transport and lower production costs for businesses.
During the Cabinet meeting, the Prime Minister urged relevant agencies to expedite the first phase of the railway, a 252.3-kilometre section from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima. Approved in July 2017, this phase involves an investment of 179.4 billion baht (USD 5.3 billion) and will feature six stations, including Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, Don Mueang, Ayutthaya, Saraburi, Pak Chong, and Nakhon Ratchasima.
The Bangkok–Nong Khai high-speed railway is a key infrastructure project aimed at enhancing ASEAN regional connectivity. It is part of the broader “One Belt, One Road” initiative, strengthening transport links between Thailand, neighbouring countries, and China. Upon completion of the second phase, the railway will extend from Nong Khai to Laos and China, further integrating Thailand into the regional high-speed rail network.
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