News

SRT Adjusts Ayutthaya High-Speed Rail Station Design to Preserve Heritage

Published

2 days ago

January 25, 2025

Wadi

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.

News

Record-Breaking Launch of Free Electric Train Service in Bangkok

Published

17 hours ago

January 26, 2025

Wadi

Over 1.63 Million People Utilize Free Electric Trains on Launch Day

Significant Increase in Passenger Trips

On January 25, 2025, the inaugural day of the free electric rail service in Bangkok saw an impressive 1.63 million passenger trips, marking a 45.29% increase compared to the average Saturday in January. This initiative is part of the government’s strategy to combat PM2.5 dust pollution and promote public transportation usage.

Details of the Free Service Initiative

The free rides are available on all electric rail lines and buses operated by the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) from January 25 to 31, 2025. This measure was announced by Prime Minister Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra as a response to rising air pollution levels in the capital.

Breakdown of Passenger Statistics

The electric rail system recorded a total of 1,634,446 passenger trips, with the Gold Line showing the highest increase at 242% compared to previous Saturdays. The Yellow and Pink Lines also experienced significant growth, with increases of 92.68% and 86.28%, respectively.

Intercity Train Usage

In addition to electric trains, intercity trains operated by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) reported 75,303 passengers across 215 trains on the same day. This included both commercial and social trains, reflecting a slight decrease from previous averages.

Environmental Impact and Future Expectations

The surge in public transport usage is seen as a positive step towards reducing reliance on personal vehicles, thereby lowering carbon monoxide emissions and improving air quality. The Department of Rail Transport anticipates even higher passenger numbers on January 27, particularly during peak hours, despite ongoing work-from-home promotions.

Enhancements for Passenger Comfort

To accommodate the expected influx of passengers, service providers are increasing train frequencies during rush hours and monitoring station traffic to ensure efficient operations. Additional ticketing counters and machines will also be made available to facilitate smooth travel for commuters.

News

Strengthening Ties: Thai Minister to Board USS Carl Vinson in Chon Buri

Published

17 hours ago

January 26, 2025

Wadi

Defence Minister’s Visit to USS Carl Vinson

Phumtham Wechayachai Leads Delegation for Security Talks

On Sunday, January 26, 2025, Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai will embark on a significant visit to the USS Carl Vinson, a prominent US Navy aircraft carrier stationed in the Gulf of Thailand near Chon Buri. This strategic meeting aims to enhance security collaboration across Southeast Asia, emphasizing the importance of international partnerships in regional stability.

Details of the Visit

The visit is scheduled for 1 PM, with Minister Phumtham and his delegation arriving via helicopter. The USS Carl Vinson, a Nimitz-class supercarrier capable of accommodating up to 6,000 personnel, has a storied history since its launch in 1980. It has participated in major military operations and humanitarian missions, including the rescue efforts following the Haiti earthquake.

Highlighting Military Collaboration

Engagement with US Navy Officials

During the visit, Minister Phumtham will meet with key US Navy officials, including Rear Admiral Michael S. Wosje and Captain Matthew C. Thomas, commander of the USS Carl Vinson. The delegation will have the opportunity to observe various naval operations, including aircraft launches, showcasing the capabilities and architecture of this formidable vessel.

Port Visit at Laem Chabang

Following the ministerial engagement, the USS Carl Vinson will dock at Laem Chabang Port from Monday to Friday for a scheduled port visit. This period allows the ship’s crew to rest without any roster changes, reinforcing their operational readiness while fostering goodwill between Thailand and the United States.

Enhancing Diplomatic Relations

Objectives of the Meeting

The Ministry of Defence aims to strengthen diplomatic ties between Thailand and the US through this visit. According to Ministry spokesman Maj Gen Thanathip Sawangsang, the discussions will focus on knowledge exchange regarding advanced military technologies, enhancing both nations’ security interests.

Future Implications

This engagement not only signifies a commitment to bolstering military cooperation but also reflects a broader strategy of fostering international alliances in Southeast Asia. The anticipated outcomes are expected to contribute positively to regional security dynamics as both nations navigate shared challenges and opportunities.

News

Air Quality Crisis: Unsafe Levels Detected in 58 Thai Provinces

Published

17 hours ago

January 26, 2025

Wadi

Overview of Air Quality Situation in Thailand

Unsafe Air Quality Across the Nation

On January 26, 2025, alarming reports indicated that 58 out of 77 provinces in Thailand are experiencing unsafe air quality levels. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (Gistda) revealed that particulate matter (PM2.5) reached hazardous levels, particularly in the Central Plain region.

Detailed Air Quality Measurements

PM2.5 Levels and Health Risks

The measurement of PM2.5 particles, which are 2.5 micrometres or smaller, showed that 20 provinces recorded red levels, indicating a hazardous condition for health. The highest PM2.5 concentration was noted in Sing Buri province, with a staggering 109.7 µg/m³ over the past 24 hours, significantly exceeding the safe threshold of 37.5 µg/m³.

Provinces Affected by Poor Air Quality

The following provinces reported dangerously high PM2.5 levels:

Chai Nat: 108.5 µg/m³
Lop Buri: 94.4 µg/m³
Nakhon Sawan: 91.2 µg/m³
Saraburi: 88.3 µg/m³

In contrast, only 19 provinces reported safe air quality, with PM2.5 levels ranging from 15.2 to 34.2 µg/m³, classified as moderate or good.

Regional Impact and Public Health Advisory

Health Implications of Air Pollution

The ongoing air pollution crisis raises significant health concerns, as long-term exposure to PM2.5 is linked to chronic respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Health officials are urging residents to take precautions, including wearing masks and minimizing outdoor activities.

Government Response to Air Quality Crisis

In response to the deteriorating air quality, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has implemented measures to combat pollution, including banning high-emission vehicles from entering city streets. Authorities are also considering designating areas with extreme PM2.5 levels as disease control zones to facilitate effective management strategies.

Future Outlook

Monitoring and Improvement Efforts

As Thailand grapples with this environmental challenge, continuous monitoring of air quality is essential. The government is expected to propose further measures aimed at improving air quality and protecting public health in the coming days.

Call to Action for Residents

Residents are advised to stay informed about air quality updates and adhere to health recommendations to mitigate the adverse effects of pollution during this critical period.