Thailand on track to invest 77 billion baht in new light rail systems

The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) has announced ambitious plans to introduce light rail systems in four key provinces: Phuket, Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Phitsanulok. The total budget for these projects is set at 77 billion baht, aiming to enhance public transportation and reduce traffic congestion in these rapidly growing regions.

Project Details and Budget Allocation

MRTA Deputy Governor Wittaya Phanmongkol provided an overview of the estimated costs for each province:

• Phuket: 35 billion baht
• Chiang Mai: 30 billion baht
• Nakhon Ratchasima: 7 billion baht
• Phitsanulok: 5 billion baht

These budgets reflect the scale and complexity of the light rail systems planned for each location. Wittaya noted that the MRTA is currently conducting comparison studies on various project models and investment options, which will be submitted to the Office of the Commission for the Management of Road Traffic for approval.

Timeline for Implementation

The MRTA anticipates launching the bidding process for these light rail projects in 2026, with the aim of finalizing contracts by 2027. Construction is expected to begin in 2028, marking a significant step forward in Thailand's infrastructure development.

Ongoing Projects: The Brown Line and Extensions

In addition to the new light rail plans, the MRTA is progressing with the development of the 22-kilometer Brown Line, which will connect Khae Rai in Nonthaburi to Lam Sali (Bueng Kum) in Bangkok. This project, with an estimated cost of 42 billion baht, is currently under review, and the MRTA is considering implementing a 20-baht flat fare policy to make the service more accessible. The study is expected to conclude soon, with the bidding process scheduled for 2025 and construction starting in 2026. The Brown Line is anticipated to begin operations in 2029.

Expanding Bangkok’s Rail Network

Since its inception 32 years ago, the MRTA has successfully launched four major electric train lines in Bangkok, covering nearly 150 kilometers:

• Blue Line: Bang Sue-Hua Lamphong to Lak Song
• Purple Line: Tao Poon to Khlong Bang Phai
• Yellow Line: Lat Phrao to Samrong
• Pink Line: Khae Rai to Min Buri

Currently, three extensions are under construction:

• Pink Line: Si Rat-Mueang Thong Thani section (completion expected by mid-2025)
• Purple Line: Tao Poon-Rat Burana section (completion expected by 2028)
• Orange Line: Western section from Bang Khun Non to the Thailand Cultural Centre

The Orange Line’s western extension presents significant challenges due to its route through central Bangkok, historic areas, and the crossing of the Chao Phraya River, making it one of the more complex infrastructure projects in the city.

Future Land Use Plans

In a related development, the MRTA plans to transfer plots of public land currently managed by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to private contractors starting this year. This move is expected to facilitate further urban development and improve the efficiency of public land use in Bangkok.