The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) and the Rail Technology Research and Development Institute have established a partnership to develop Thailand’s railway sector. The agreement, signed on March 14, 2025, focuses on increasing domestic manufacturing and reducing dependence on imported technology.
SRT Governor Veeris Ammarapala and Institute Director Dr. Chulathep Kajornchaiyakul finalized the agreement with Transport Ministry officials present, including Permanent Secretary Chayatham Phromsorn.
The programme centres on three areas: workforce development, technology advancement, and industry growth. A main component involves converting fan-cooled trains to air-conditioned vehicles, with a prototype expected by late 2025.
According to Ammarapala, the initial phase will upgrade 40 carriages beginning in 2026, with a budget of 295.60 million baht ($8.8 million). The SRT plans to request funding for 50 additional upgrades later, focusing on trains suitable for high-speed service. While ticket prices may change under the draft Rail Transport Act, provisions for low-income travelers and student discounts will remain.
Kajornchaiyakul noted that prototypes will incorporate passenger feedback and undergo safety testing before expanding to new locomotives and trains.
The collaboration also includes developing commercial rail technologies, improving safety standards, creating a national rail database, and designing tourism-oriented carriages. These efforts aim to strengthen Thailand’s transportation infrastructure while enhancing both passenger comfort and freight capabilities.
