He continued by saying that the line from the capital city of Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima would be the first to be laid. He explained that despite claims to the contrary, the country had the funds to build this 250km route to what most Thai people refer to as Korat.
The minister added that the line would eventually pay for itself with 60 per cent of the return coming from sales of land for industrial units and housing adjacent to it. He claimed the government would recoup the remaining 40 per cent from ticket revenue as more people would use a service that was fast and efficient.
The Korat route is the first of four hi-speed train links in the pipeline. The other trio will connect Bangkok to the northern city of Chiang Mai in addition to the seaside towns of Hua Hin and Rayong.
Thailand’s current rail system has been described as slow but sure in that it will get you to your destination but not always at the scheduled time. Nevertheless, train travel is an integral part of the Thai experience. 12GO ASIA offers a ticketing service for trains and buses on most of the major routes in Thailand.
Thai government affirms commitment to hi speed train projects
News in Asia
Thailand’s government has confirmed it is to press on with projects to develop high-speed rail links between major cities. Arkhom Termpittayaphaisit, the national transport-minister, told reporters that the construction schedule will go ahead as originally planned.