The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is preparing to establish the Bang Klam Container Yard (CY) and plans to submit the southern double-track railway project to the Cabinet for approval, aiming to upgrade logistics, reduce transport costs, and promote Thai products through the Padang Besar checkpoint to Malaysia.
Mr. Anan Phohnimdaeng, Governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), revealed after visiting and monitoring operations at Hat Yai Junction Station, Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, to listen to challenges, obstacles, and suggestions from local staff, as well as to inspect the readiness of the area for developing a Container Yard (CY) at Bang Klam Station, Bang Klam District, Songkhla Province, preparing to support the future southern double-track railway network development.
Hat Yai Junction Station is a key transportation and rail freight hub in southern Thailand, connecting travel for residents, tourists, and goods transport to various areas, including cross-border travel between Thailand and Malaysia. Therefore, relevant agencies have been instructed to prioritize upgrading service standards, safety, and passenger convenience continuously.
The team also inspected the Bang Klam Station area, planned for development as a Container Yard (CY) to enhance rail freight capacity and support the policy of shifting freight transport from road to rail (Shift to Rail). This area has strong potential for linking freight transport from southern Thailand to the Padang Besar checkpoint in Malaysia and nearby regions.
Regarding progress on the southern double-track railway construction, which is crucial for developing the country’s rail network, the SRT is currently preparing to submit two key sections of the project to the Cabinet for approval:
The Chumphon–Surat Thani section,
and the Surat Thani–Hat Yai Junction–Songkhla section.
This site visit is part of preparations to ensure efficient construction and commercial area development can proceed immediately once the Cabinet approves the project.
Mr. Anan stated, “Developing the southern double-track railway network alongside freight support facilities will be key infrastructure to enhance rail and logistics capabilities in the south. It will help reduce costs and transit times, while increasing opportunities to connect agricultural products, manufacturing outputs, and industries from the south to domestic and international markets, especially through the Padang Besar checkpoint to Malaysia and neighboring regions.”
He added that the SRT prioritizes thorough project preparation in all aspects, coordinating closely with relevant agencies, local administrative organizations, and communities to ensure efficient implementation once approved, with careful consideration to minimize impacts on local residents and communities.
Furthermore, developing rail infrastructure in southern Thailand will increase transportation options and efficiency, upgrade the logistics system, and support economic, trade, investment, and tourism activities in Songkhla province and the lower south region, while enhancing long-term rail connectivity between Thailand and Malaysia.
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