Siriphong inspected the transportation system in Pathum Thani province, preparing for the Rangsit High-Speed Rail station. He instructed the Transport Company Limited (BorKorSor) to negotiate with private partners to extend the pedestrian bridge shelter to facilitate commuters and expedite feeder bus route planning to connect all modes of transportation efficiently.
Siriphong Angkasakulkit, Deputy Minister of Transport, disclosed after inspecting transportation services in Pathum Thani province alongside senior ministry officials—including the Deputy Permanent Secretary, Director-General of the Department of Land Transport (DLT), Director-General of the Department of Rail Transport (DRT), and other relevant executives—that the visit aimed to review overall service provision and prepare for future mega transport projects. This focus was particularly on the Red Line Electric Train Station (Rangsit Station), designated as a key interchange for the High-Speed Rail project.
Siriphong stated that the site visit was to assess limitations and obstacles expected when Rangsit Station is upgraded as a high-speed rail hub, as well as to evaluate the readiness of the Red Line Electric Train, which serves as the main artery for passenger flow into and out of Bangkok. This aligns with Transport Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn's policy promoting a seamless "rail-to-wheel-to-boat" travel model.
However, the survey revealed physical constraints around Rangsit Station, as it is situated in a densely populated community with relatively narrow roads. Therefore, efficient management of other mass transit systems acting as feeder connections is urgently needed to maximize effectiveness.
During the visit, they also inspected the Future Park Rangsit transport center, which demonstrated relatively efficient management through technology-assisted operations, including automated ticket kiosks and passenger queue systems. This allows commuters to select routes before traveling, enabling better time management, while operators can predict passenger volumes and allocate buses accordingly. Siriphong acknowledged that such systems are not yet implemented at BorKorSor stations and assigned relevant agencies to study and develop similar systems for future application.
Additionally, infrastructure around the station was reviewed to identify ways to enhance travel quality for the public, in line with the Ministry of Transport's policies emphasizing convenience, safety, punctuality, and affordability.
After the site visit, Siriphong said he plans to meet with all Members of Parliament from Pathum Thani districts to listen to transportation issues, especially complaints about insufficient bus services in areas like Khlong 6 and Valaya Alongkorn Rajabhat University, key locations in the province. He will also gather suggestions on the overall transport system to inform network development plans.
Regarding station development and private-sector connected areas, Siriphong acknowledged clear disparities in readiness between government and private zones, particularly at the pedestrian bridge linking the train station and shopping center. Some sections are sheltered, providing passenger convenience, but other areas lack roofing, causing discomfort.
Siriphong said he assigned the Managing Director of Transport Company Limited (BorKorSor) to negotiate with Future Park Rangsit management to seek cooperation in extending the pedestrian bridge shelter to the station area, benefiting passengers and all stakeholders. The Department of Highways, as landowner, has no objection in principle.
As for BorKorSor's area, located on Department of Highways land, any improvements must be planned as temporary developments because the department's primary role is not station management but providing land for public services. Therefore, BorKorSor must prepare detailed plans and submit them for approval.
Siriphong also addressed future service planning, instructing the Department of Land Transport to consider new bus routes with a comprehensive view of Pathum Thani province. This follows feedback from local MPs that feeder bus connections from communities to train stations or transfer points remain inadequate despite the province's many attractions, including a zoo, sports centers, and large educational institutions. Planning a new transport network and involving private operators is essential, as government efforts alone may be insufficient.