Bangkok: The Department of Lands has addressed the issues surrounding the Northeast-Northern double-track railway project, confirming the delivery of necessary land survey maps.

According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Lands clarified reports regarding delays in the railway project’s construction due to land expropriation processes. The department stated that some media reports may have led to misunderstandings. The Department emphasized that surveying work, particularly for the Ban Phai-Mahasarakham-Roi Et-Mukdahan-Nakhon Phanom railway project, is significantly progressing. Out of 7,280 land plots, maps for 7,190 have been submitted to the State Railway of Thailand, with outstanding plots in Roi Et, Mukdahan, and Nakhon Phanom still undergoing survey verification.

Additionally, the Den Chai-Chiang Rai-Chiang Khong railway project involves 7,413 land plots, and maps for all plots have been delivered. However, 485 registrations are pending at the Land Department. The Department urged the State Railway of Thailand to expedite necessary procedures.

The Department also noted that, under Section 25 of the Expropriation and Acquisition of Real Estate Act B.E. 2562 (2019), the registration of rights is a mere formality and does not impede construction. The Department of Lands assured that it has fulfilled its duties in line with the country’s rail development plans and relevant laws.