Thailand’s railway operator, State Railway of Thailand (SRT), plans to modernize passenger trains. The state-owned company will purchase 184 modern train cars for long-distance travel. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Thailand’s railway operator, State Railway of Thailand (SRT), plans to modernize passenger trains. The state-owned company will purchase 184 modern train cars for long-distance travel.
Source: Chiang Mai

The total purchase budget is ฿24.1 billion ($705 million), including driver’s cabin-equipped cars and intermediate train cars. All models will be adapted for passengers with special needs.

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Each car will cost ฿131 million ($3.8 million). The modernization aims to replace 10 outdated trains, which have been in service for over 30 years.

SRT has submitted a request to the government for funding approval. If approved, the project will receive state support and proceed as planned.

SRT’s Director Veeris Ammarapala confirmed that a procurement tender will be launched after government approval. The results of the bidding process are expected by July 2026.

The first batch of 60 train cars will arrive in 2027, with full delivery expected by 2030. This will significantly upgrade Thailand’s railway system.

Why Is Thailand Investing in New Trains?

Earlier, Thailand approved a ฿10.5 billion ($300 million) budget for railway upgrades. This initiative includes purchasing 182 new passenger train carsfor locomotive-hauled services.

The last major procurement was in 2014, when Thailand purchased 115 sleeper train cars from China for ฿4.6 billion ($130 million). These trains entered service in 2017.

How Will Modernization Impact Rail Transport?

The large-scale upgrade will enhance passenger comfort and improve travel conditions. Modern train cars will be equipped with necessary features for people with disabilities.

Additionally, the project will increase railway capacity, reducing train intervals and making travel more efficient. Passengers will be able to reach their destinations faster and more comfortably.

The planned train acquisition will strengthen SRT’s position in the passenger transport sector. Railway travel in Thailand will become more convenient, faster, and reliable.

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