Orange Line needs scrutinyThe decision of the Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) to scrap bidding for construction of the western section of the MRT's Orange Line while a court decision is pending bodes ill for transparency. The Orange Line is important for rail transport in the capital as it will link the west of Bangkok to the east while connecting all other major rail routes. Whoever wins the Orange Line tender will reap significant benefits from connecting the major rail grid in the capital, and both groups are believed to be backed by political interests. There is widespread speculation about an exchange between winning the Orange Line contract and the 30-year extension of Green Line concession for the BTSC. The government should bring in outsiders to observe all stages of new bidding for the Orange Line western section to ensure its transparency.

Source: Bangkok Post February 07, 2021 23:48 UTC