The first batch of 39 rail cars imported by the State Railways of Thailand (SRT) has arrived at Laem Chabang seaport.
The rail cars are among a total of 115 cars ordered by the SRT under the policy of the Ministry of Transportation to improve the country’s railway service and replace old cars. The rail cars are now at the port’s Terminal C awaiting for assembly to three passenger trains, comprising 13 cars each. Official delivery of the cars by the manufacturer to the SRT will be made soon after they all come under test run on rails. Shipment of the total 115 cars is scheduled to finish in September this year. SRT Governor Wutthichart Kalayanamitr promised passengers will be impressed by the “completely different services”. He said the trains have been made to resemble planes and have only ovens onboard, as opposed to actual kitchens, to warm food. The toilets are similar to those on a plane. Each passenger seat will be equipped with a screen allowing travellers to order food at the touch of a button.
As for security, closed circuit television cameras have been installed in the carriages. The SRT has also boosted safety by buying 20 new locomotives and replacing old wooden railway sleepers with stronger concrete ones, Mr Wutthichart said. It is expected the trains will run faster and be more punctual after the changes. More importantly, Mr Wutthichart said, accidents will decline. The SRT is also working with the Railway Police Division to increase the number of security officers on trains. He said each train will need well-trained volunteers to help officers look out for irregularities. The new trains will be put into use on four routes. The Bangkok-Hat Yai services Hua Hin; whilst Bangkok-Chiang Mai, BangkokUbon Ratchathani, Bangkok-Nong Khai are the 3 other routes.