Thailand: Second-phase double-track projects headed for cabinet

  • The second phase of double-track projects, worth THB398bn and covering nine routes running a combined 2,217 kilometres, is scheduled to go before the cabinet for approval late Dec 17 or early 2018, says the state planning unit.
  • Once endorsed by the cabinet, the nine routes are expected to start construction in 2018, said Porametee Vimolsiri, secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Board (NESDB). Construction is expected to take four to five years.
  • Anon Luangboriboon, acting State Railway of Thailand governor said the drafting of the nine projects is expected to finish by 1Q18, with bidding to be called in mid-2018.
  • Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak said the cabinet is scheduled next week to approve the winning contractors for the first phase of double-track projects worth a combined THB102bn, which comprises five routes covering 668 kilometres.
  • Mr Somkid said the government has pledged to accelerate approvals in 2018 for all significant infrastructure projects slated to become the backbone of the country as well as infrastructure projects in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC).
  • Mr Porametee said construction of infrastructure projects in 2018 will become a vital contributor to the economy, with the NESDB projecting government investment will rise by 11.8% in 2018, up from 9.9% in 2016 and 1.8% forecast for 2017. He said the government’s investment and infrastructure development as well as the EEC will create investor confidence and keep economic growth momentum on the upswing in 2018.

External Link : https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/news/1376935/second-phase-double-track-projects-headed-for-cabinet

12-Dec-2017