The total length of the two separate rail lines is 867kms and an assessment of the costs involved requires a budget allocation of THB350 billion. The Thai stretches of track will be split up into four parts and be laid with 1.435-metre gauge rails. The standard width of tracks in Thailand is one metre at present.
Mr Kaewkamnerd stated that under the terms of the provisional agreement, China would be responsible for the building, engineering and the technological aspects of construction. Once the route opens, China will operate and maintain it for three years and then the two counties will take over joint responsibility. He noted that China would also train Thai rail employees.
The government has scheduled a ground-breaking ceremony for 19 December. Transport-minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith says construction work could begin as early as May 2016, but is dependent on Thailand and China agreeing on final details related to the different phases and financing.
Thailand and China map out railway link agenda
News in Asia
The Thai government this week endorsed a railway project that will eventually connect Bangkok and a Gulf of Thailand port to Kunming in China. Government spokesperson Sansern Kaewkamnerd said the project in Thailand would link Nong Khai on the border with Laos to Nakhon Ratchasima, Kaeng Khoi, Bangkok and Map Ta Phut Port.