Post by : Shakul

Asia Pacific Rail 2026 became an important platform for Thailand to present its long-term transportation and infrastructure ambitions. During the regional event held at the BITEC Exhibition and Convention Center in Bangkok, Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn outlined the government’s plans to transform Thailand into a major railway and logistics hub for Southeast Asia.

Speaking at the conference, Pipat Ratchakitprakarn said the government under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is committed to making rail systems one of the country’s most important economic growth drivers. He explained that the government sees rail transport as essential for improving logistics, supporting trade, reducing transportation costs and strengthening regional economic connectivity throughout ASEAN.

Senior officials from several transportation agencies attended the event, including representatives from the Department of Rail Transport, the State Railway of Thailand, the Mass Rapid Transit Authority and the Thailand Rail Technology Research and Development Institute. Their participation reflected the government’s effort to coordinate infrastructure development policies and accelerate rail-related investment projects across the country.

One of the government’s main priorities is the rapid expansion of Thailand’s railway network. Authorities revealed that six railway lines from the first phase of the double-track railway programme are already operational, covering more than 993 kilometres. The second phase, consisting of seven additional railway lines with a total distance of approximately 1,479 kilometres, is currently moving forward as part of the national transportation strategy.

Thailand is also continuing efforts to modernise urban transportation systems in Bangkok and surrounding provinces. Officials stated that the Ministry of Transport is implementing a master plan involving 14 railway lines covering more than 550 kilometres. More than half of these lines are already operational, while the Orange Line and Southern Purple Line projects remain under construction and are being accelerated.

Another major topic discussed during the event was Thailand’s proposed “Land Bridge” project. The government is studying plans to connect ports on the Gulf of Thailand in Chumphon with ports on the Andaman Sea in Ranong through railway and highway systems. Authorities believe the project could significantly reduce shipping times and transportation costs while strengthening Thailand’s position as an international logistics and trade centre.

Cross-border railway connectivity was also highlighted as a key economic priority. Thailand plans to strengthen rail links with neighbouring countries including Malaysia, Laos and China. Officials believe improved regional railway integration could attract new investments, increase trade opportunities and support tourism growth throughout Southeast Asia. The projects are expected to play an important role in ASEAN economic cooperation in the coming years.

The government additionally stressed the importance of clean energy and sustainable transportation development. Thailand’s Rail Technology Research and Development Institute is promoting the use of environmentally friendly rail technologies and encouraging partnerships with private companies to support green innovation. Authorities stated that future rail projects will align with global net-zero emission goals and international environmental standards.

Thailand’s high-speed rail ambitions were also discussed in detail at the conference. Construction on the first phase of the Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima high-speed rail line is continuing, with trial operations expected to begin by 2028. Meanwhile, preparations for the second phase connecting Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai are advancing toward the bidding process. Officials said the rail projects demonstrate Thailand’s determination to become one of the strongest transportation and logistics centres in the Asia Pacific region.

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