Bangkok (VNA) - The Thai-Chinese high-speed railway from Bangkok toNakhon Ratchasima will act as a major spur to the economy, Thai Prime MinisterPrayut Chan-o-cha said on October 28.
He made the affirmation while presiding over a ceremony atGovernment 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 stafftraining.
Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri later quoted Prayut as saying thehigh-speed rail route was an important strategic asset that would increase thecountry's competitiveness and develop cities along it.
It would also help strengthen relations between Thailand and China, Mr Anuchaadded.
According to Transport Minister Saksayam Chidchob, the Thai-Chinese high-speedrail project, expected to be completed in 2025, was in line with thegovernment's 20-year national development plan.
He said it would strengthen the country's future in terms of infrastructure andtransport. It would also help equally distribute income and reduce inequalitywhile allowing for knowledge and technological transfer from China, which hasexpertise in high-speed railways.
Saksayam also felt the project would help develop Thailand as a hub fortransport and logistics in Asean, while leading to new trade, investment andtourism opportunities in the areas along the rail route.
Governor of the State Railway of Thailand Nirut Maneephan said the constructionof the 3.5km section from Klang Dong to Pang Asoke in Korat had been finishedand the section from Sikhiu district to tambon Kut Chik in Sung Noen districtwas 42 percent completed.
The 253km route from Bangkok to Korat has six stations: Bang Sue Grand, DonMuang, Ayutthaya, Saraburi, Pak Chong and Nakhon Ratchasima./.
VNA