Bangkok: The People's Party has conducted a comprehensive survey of the Mahachai-Wongwian Yai route, seeking public feedback and urging the Minister of Transport and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) to provide clear answers on the decade-long ambiguous railway project.

According to Thai News Agency, Members of Parliament from Samut Sakhon and Bangkok, who represent the People's Party, embarked on a train journey from Mahachai Station to Wongwian Yai Station. Their aim was to assess the Mahachai-Wongwian Yai Dark Red Line suburban railway project, which is currently in the public consultation phase. The MPs interacted with local residents to gather feedback and assess the potential impact of the project.

Mr. Nattapong Sumanothum, MP for Samut Sakhon Constituency 1, expressed the urgent need for clarity from the government. He emphasized that residents and commuters along the route desire clear communication from authorities to plan their lives accordingly. Concerns have been raised about repeated studies that do not lead to decisive action, and Mr. Nattapong highlighted the importance of using parliamentary mechanisms to push for solutions and ensure public safety on the current train system.

MP Narupol Lertpanyaroj from Bangkok Constituency 27 voiced concerns about the project's impact on vendors and station locations. He questioned the feasibility of extending the terminal from Wongwian Yai to Hua Lamphong to enhance public convenience. The potential relocation of the Mahachai terminal to the Ekachai Road area also raises questions among citizens, particularly regarding fare increases and cargo capacity.

Mr. Pongsornat Thonglee, MP for Bangkok Constituency 26, noted a lack of public awareness regarding upcoming hearings. He urged the SRT and project consultants to disseminate information widely, ensuring maximum public participation. Mr. Thonglee also highlighted the need to mitigate construction impacts on commuters and daily life along the railway route.

Mr. Thanyathorn Thaninwattana, MP for Bangkok Constituency 30, pointed out the necessity for integrated planning between the SRT and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). With a new road construction intersecting the railway project, coordination is crucial to address local needs effectively.

Additionally, Mr. Naphat Chittapinankan, MP for Bangkok Constituency 24, emphasized the significance of historical sites along the route. He advocated for measures to assess and protect these sites while addressing public concerns about the project's impact on traditional lifestyles.

Mr. Nattapong concluded by calling for definitive answers from the Minister of Transport, the SRT, and the government. He expressed hope that this survey would be the final step towards providing much-needed clarity and resolution for the public.