The Thai-Chinese high-speed railway from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima will act as a major spur to the economy, Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said on October 28. (Photo: railjournal.com) Bangkok (VNA) - The Thai-Chinese high-speed railway from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima will act as a major spur to the economy, Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said on October 28.
He made the affirmation while presiding over a ceremony at Government House to sign a contract worth 50.63 billion THB (1.62 billion USD) for the Bangkok-Nakhon Ratchasima section of the route.
The contract is for the purchase of railway systems, train carriages and staff training.
Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri later quoted Prayut as saying the high-speed rail route was an important strategic asset that would increase the country's competitiveness and develop cities along it.
It would also help strengthen relations between Thailand and China, Mr Anucha added.
According to Transport Minister Saksayam Chidchob, the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project, expected to be completed in 2025, was in line with the government's 20-year national development plan.
He said it would strengthen the country's future in terms of infrastructure and transport. It would also help equally distribute income and reduce inequality while allowing for knowledge and technological transfer from China, which has expertise in high-speed railways.
Saksayam also felt the project would help develop Thailand as a hub for transport and logistics in Asean, while leading to new trade, investment and tourism opportunities in the areas along the rail route.
Governor of the State Railway of Thailand Nirut Maneephan said the construction of the 3.5km section from Klang Dong to Pang Asoke in Korat had been finished and the section from Sikhiu district to tambon Kut Chik in Sung Noen district was 42 percent completed.
The 253km route from Bangkok to Korat has six stations: Bang Sue Grand, Don Muang, Ayutthaya, Saraburi, Pak Chong and Nakhon Ratchasima./.
VNA
