Bangkok: The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) conducted a forum to gather public opinions on the "Wong Wian Yai-Mahachai Electric Train" project. This initiative is part of the Dark Red Line Suburban Railway Project, specifically focusing on the Wongwian Yai-Mahachai section.
According to Thai News Agency, the SRT is actively engaging in a public hearing process to review the results from a detailed feasibility study and to prepare an environmental impact assessment report for the project. The forum, attended by over 100 participants including representatives from government agencies, the private sector, civil society, and local communities, was presided over by Mr. Atthaphon Kaoprasert, Chief Engineer of the Special Projects and Construction Division at SRT. The meeting took place at the King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi in Bangkok.
Mr. Atthaphon Kaoprasert explained that the Wongwian Yai-Mahachai section is a critical part of the larger Red Line suburban railway project. The project aims to develop a rail mass transit network in Bangkok and its vicinity, necessitating a review of the original feasibility study conducted by the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning in 2006, due to changes in the physical landscape.
The project study initially surveyed five alternative routes, with four based on the original 2006 feasibility study. These have been adjusted to reflect current land use and construction changes. A fifth alternative, proposed by the 2023 Department of Rail Transport study, suggests an alignment along Ekkachai Road. Each alternative offers different route configurations, including a mix of underground and elevated sections, with varying distances and specific end points.
Mr. Atthapol emphasized that the public hearing was an opportunity to present project details, including operational plans and environmental impact assessment guidelines. It also allowed for the exchange of opinions and suggestions, which will inform the project's development and improvements.
A similar public hearing took place in Samut Sakhon Province, aimed at engaging local communities and gathering input for the project's future construction and approval processes, expected to culminate in cabinet approval by 2028.
The SRT recognizes the importance of public participation in ensuring the success of the Wong Wian Yai-Mahachai project, seeking to incorporate feedback from all stakeholders to enhance project planning and execution.