Bangkok: Pipat Ratchakitprakarn showcased his vision at the global "Asia Pacific Rail 2026" event, promoting rail systems to connect Thailand and the region, highlighting "land bridges and cross-border railways" as economic hubs. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, announced a significant commitment at the regional level, reinforcing the government's goal under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to elevate the rail system to be a core driver of infrastructure, economic development, and logistics connectivity for the country and the ASEAN region.
According to Thai News Agency, the event was attended by high-ranking executives from key agencies under the Ministry of Transport and related organizations, demonstrating their commitment and readiness to implement policies. Among those present were Mr. Pichet Kunathamarak, Director-General of the Department of Rail Transport; Mr. Anan Pothinimdaeng, Governor of the State Railway of Thailand; Mr. Kajphajon Udomthamphakdi, Governor of the Mass Transit Authority of Thailand; and Air Vice Marshal Nathawut Yuthong, expert from the International Standard Rail System Technology Research and Development Institute, at the BITEC Exhibition and Convention Center.
Mr. Pipat stated that the key takeaways from the opening ceremony reflect the commitment of the government and the Ministry of Transport to developing comprehensive travel and transportation infrastructure to ensure convenient, fast, safe, and cost-effective travel for the public. This is supported by clear and concrete action plans, such as the construction of double-track and high-speed railways. The Ministry of Transport is accelerating the development of the nationwide railway network, with six routes from the first phase of the double-track railway project already operational.
The ministry is also focused on upgrading urban rail systems to a fully cashless society for Bangkok and surrounding areas. The master plan for 14 rail lines is underway, with EMV Contactless payment technology being implemented to allow passengers to travel seamlessly across rail lines and other public transport.
Further, the government is studying the "Land Bridge" project and cross-border connectivity to transform Thailand into a global trade and logistics hub, aiming to reduce transportation time and costs and attract investment.
Finally, developing Thai innovation towards clean energy is a key focus, with the Thailand Rail Technology Research and Development Institute accelerating technology transfer and promoting the use of clean energy technologies.
Mr. Pipat concluded by saying that presenting this vision at the Asia Pacific Rail 2026 forum is a significant step, demonstrating to the Thai people and the global community the government's seriousness in transforming Thailand into a strong and sustainable transportation hub in the Asia Pacific region.