World Heritage Committee Influences Design Changes
Height Reduction to Protect Ayutthaya’s Historical Value
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has announced plans to reduce the height of the Ayutthaya High-Speed Rail Station’s roof structure following recommendations from the World Heritage Committee’s advisory body. This decision aims to preserve the historical significance of the original Ayutthaya Railway Station, ensuring it is not overshadowed by the new development.
Collaboration with International Experts
SRT governor Veeris Ammarapala revealed that SRT officials, alongside experts from the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM) and the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), conducted a thorough assessment of the high-speed rail project’s impact on the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Assessing the Impact on Ayutthaya’s Heritage
Field Visits to Key Historical Landmarks
From Monday to Wednesday, the delegation visited significant heritage sites, including Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Mahathat, the Ayutthaya Railway Station, Wat Phanan Choeng, and the Japanese Village. These visits aimed to evaluate the cultural and physical effects of the high-speed rail project on the region’s historical landscape.
Data Synthesis for World Heritage Committee
The team is now compiling data on landscape, urban development, tourism, and traffic to present a comprehensive report to the World Heritage Committee. This report will guide future decisions to balance modernization with heritage preservation.
Design Adjustments for the High-Speed Rail Station
Reducing Station Height and Track Elevation
In response to the advisory body’s recommendations, the SRT plans to lower the Ayutthaya High-Speed Rail Station’s height from 37.45 meters to 35.45 meters and reduce the track elevation from 19 meters to 17 meters. These changes aim to minimize the visual impact on the Ayutthaya Historical Park’s iconic scenery.
Heritage Impact Assessment Report in Progress
The SRT is preparing a Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) report based on the advisory body’s suggestions. This report will be submitted to the World Heritage Centre, ensuring that the project aligns with global heritage preservation standards.
Temporary Halt on Ayutthaya Section of High-Speed Rail
13.3-Kilometer Project Paused Pending Approval
The Ayutthaya section of the Sino-Thai high-speed rail project, spanning 13.3 kilometers with a budget exceeding 10.3 billion baht, has been temporarily halted. Work will resume only after the HIA report is approved, ensuring compliance with heritage preservation guidelines.
Balancing Development and Cultural Preservation
The SRT’s decision reflects a commitment to balancing Thailand’s infrastructure development with the need to protect its rich cultural heritage. By incorporating feedback from international experts, the project aims to set a precedent for responsible development near UNESCO World Heritage sites.
