He continued by saying that establishing the project as a PPP would attract the required funds needed to get it off the ground quickly. The minister explained that the Rayong line would be one of five rail projects to be offered as a PPP next month.
The estimated cost of the line is THB150 billion and the Transport Ministry has already been tasked with coming up with a projected budget and timetable. Once the service becomes operational it will provide journey times between Bangkok and Rayong of just one hour.
The feasibility study found ticket prices between the two terminus stations would need to be around the THB350 mark for the route to be profitable. It also said the trains would stop at stations in Chachoengsao and Pattaya en route.
Bangkok and Pattaya are only 150kms apart and, although buses are quicker, the train trip between the two takes almost four hours. The new line will have no level crossings and is being designed for 250kmh trains.
Thailand seeks private investors for new Bangkok Pattaya rail line
News in Asia
The Thai government says it will offer investors the chance of participating in a new rail line linking Bangkok and the eastern seaboard. Finance-minister Apisak Tantiworong told reporters that the high speed rail line to Pattaya and Rayong would probably be offered as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP).