Bangkok: The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) conducted its inaugural public hearing on the survey, detailed design, and environmental impact assessment (EIA) report for the Suphan Buri-Nakhon Luang-Ban Phachi Junction railway line construction project, aiming to expedite the development of a crucial rail network in the province.
According to Thai News Agency, the public hearing took place with Mr. Natthapong Sanguanjit, Governor of Suphan Buri Province, presiding over the opening ceremony. The event saw participation from SRT executives, representatives from government agencies, the private sector, community leaders, and local residents, who gathered to provide and receive feedback on the proposed project.
Mr. Atthapol Kaoprasert, Chief Engineer of Special Projects and Construction at SRT, disclosed that the railway line project is part of the "National Rail System Strategy" plan, under the government's urgent phase from 2023 to 2027. The project aims to establish a new railway line connecting the existing main railway network, facilitating seamless travel and transportation between the South, Central, Northeast, and North regions without passing through Bangkok.
The study area for the project covers a 500-meter radius along the route in Suphan Buri, Ang Thong, and Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya provinces, spanning 31 subdistricts and eight districts. The route integrates with the existing railway line from the Sakae Yang Moo train stop in Bang Pla Ma district, passes through various geographical features, and concludes at Ban Phachi Junction Station. The total length of the project is approximately 73.8 kilometers, with 65 kilometers of elevated railway and 8.8 kilometers of ground-level track, specifically designed to mitigate flooding in floodplain areas.
Mr. Atthapol highlighted the public hearing's purpose of presenting the draft project proposal, scope of study, and EIA methodology, while also gathering opinions and suggestions to ensure a comprehensive and contextually appropriate study.
Additionally, SRT plans a public hearing in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya and Ang Thong provinces on May 8, 2026, to further engage communities along the project route. Post-hearing, SRT will compile the feedback to refine project development and prepare an EIA report for submission to the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONREP) and the Expert Committee for EIA Review. The project aims for Cabinet budget approval by 2028.
The Suphan Buri-Nakhon Luang-Ban Phachi Junction railway project seeks to enhance regional rail connectivity, support efficient transportation of passengers and freight, and foster economic development, thereby improving the quality of life in the area. For project updates or more information, contact the Special Projects and Construction Division, State Railway of Thailand, at 0 2220 4775 during business hours.