If approved, the 179.4-billion-baht project for the first phase will be sent to the cabinet for approval in July, a month later than originally planned. The first phase involves a 252.5km railway linking Bangkok with Nakhon Ratchasima while the second phase runs from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai (350km). Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith said on Friday the construction would begin in September according to plan. "The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) will have to review commercial development plans for station areas. We will likely use the PPP model where the private sector is allowed to co-invest, starting with the Pak Chong station, followed by that in Sikhiu district and Muang districts of Ayutthaya, Saraburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani and Nong Khai.

Source: Bangkok Post June 23, 2017 14:03 UTC