Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith told reporters last week the blueprint was due to be presented to the cabinet for final approval. He carried on by saying that once it got the green light, the contract would be put out to tender some time in September.
The minister added that the next part of the improvement to the southbound line would focus on the Hua Hin to Prachuap Khiri Khan sector. Once this is underway, the master plan calls for an upgrade of the southern stretch of line from Chumphon to Suratthani and then on to Hat Yai and the border with Malaysia at Padang Besar.
The travel team at 12GO ASIA says the southbound route is popular and it is a good idea to make advance reservations. Once the upgrades are completed, seats and sleeping berths are likely to be in even higher demand and pre-booking will definitely be the way to go.
Thailand to upgrade Prachuap to Chumphon rail track
News in Asia
Thailand’s transport-minister has announced that the government is to proceed with an upgrade of part of the main southbound rail route. The upgrade will see the stretch of line between Prachuap Khiri Khan and Chumphon increased to twin track.