Thailand plans new railways

Thailand’s Government has announced it will invest THB 165 billion (US$ 4.5 billion) constructing five new railway lines, including one linking Bangkok to the country’s new international airport.

The five railways, to be built over the next five years, were originally part of an ambitious public works program under the Government of deposed premier Thaksin Shinawatra.

Making the announcement on 7 November, Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont, who was installed by the country’s military rulers following the September coup that ousted Mr Thaksin, said details of the five railways would be finalised early next year.

Finance Minister Pridiyathorn Devakula also said the government would welcome both domestic and foreign investors to finance the projects.

Of the five planned railway projects, only the new line linking Bangkok to Suvarnabhumi airport, 24 km east of the city, has been confirmed. The new airport opened in September this year.