State Railway of Thailand approves next phase of double tracking programme

State Railway of Thailand approves next phase of double tracking programme THAILAND: On August 11 the State Railway of Thailand board approved a 122.7bn baht investment framework for Phase 2 of the southern double-tracking programme. This will extend the double-track network southwards from the completed and ongoing Phase 1 works. Four contracts will cover the 168 km Chumphon – Surat Thani section (planned for completion in 2032), Surat Thani – Hat Yai Junction (to be built under two contracts for completion in 2033) and Hat Yai Junction – Padang Besar on the border with Malaysia (2031). Cabinet approval is expected soon, and construction is targeted to begin in July 2027. The revised budget is 18.25bn baht higher than the previous estimate, reflecting increased higher construction material costs, broader economic factors and changes to the design to improve weather resilience following severe flooding in November 2025. Around 3 km of the railway in Hat Yai will be on a viaduct and a further 2 km on an embankment. SRT is prioritising the main north-south corridor which passes through densely populated areas. Work on a branch from Hat Yai Junction has been postponed, as this area will be served by other transport projects. See also Subscribe to gain access to all news Already have a subscription? Log in. Choose your subscription Considering a corporate subscription? Contact us to find out more.