Deputy Minister of Transport follows up on the progress of high-speed rail, double-track railway, and highway network projects aimed at enhancing the Northeastern economy of Thailand.
On 21 August 2026, Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Deputy Minister of Transport, along with senior officials, visited Nakhon Ratchasima Province to review transportation projects. He emphasized the integrated development of rail and highway infrastructure. The Thailand-China high-speed rail project phase 1 (Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima) has reached 55.97% cumulative civil work completion. Currently, the Khok Kruat to Phu Kha Lat section is being redesigned as an elevated track in response to community needs. The line is expected to open in 2028. Phase 2 (Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai) is scheduled for bidding in 2026-2027, targeting service launch in 2033 alongside a new railway bridge across the Mekong River.
Meanwhile, the double-track railway project from Map Kabao to Chira Junction has progressed 49.16%, with tunnel construction fully completed. The Ministry is also accelerating development of seven key highway projects valued at over 35.6 billion baht, including the Bang Pa-in to Nakhon Ratchasima expressway (99.48% complete) and the Pradok intersection underpass. Additionally, nine more projects worth 9.64 billion baht are planned for proposal. The Ministry is focusing on the One Transport policy to seamlessly integrate public transportation by organizing feeder bus services linking Bus Terminals 1 and 2, the railway station, and Nakhon Ratchasima Airport, to facilitate travel and sustainably alleviate traffic congestion.