Thailand, September 2026 – Thailand’s Cabinet has approved six railway projects under the second phase of the country’s double-track expansion programme, marking a significant step in upgrading rail infrastructure along the southern corridor. Three projects have received full funding, with the investment aimed at increasing rail capacity and improving network efficiency.
The three funded projects comprise the Chumphon–Surat Thani section, valued at THB36.9 billion with a seven-year construction period; the Surat Thani–Hat Yai Junction section, costing THB61.5 billion over eight years; and the Hat Yai–Padang Besar section, valued at THB8.4 billion with construction expected to take six years. Together, the projects represent approximately THB106.7 billion in investment.
The expansion is expected to improve the capacity of Thailand’s southern rail network by providing additional track infrastructure for passenger and freight services. The Hat Yai–Padang Besar section is particularly relevant to cross-border connectivity, as Padang Besar provides a rail connection with Malaysia and forms part of the wider regional transport network.
Beyond the three fully funded projects, the Cabinet has also given in-principle backing to three other routes as part of the second phase. The broader programme reflects Thailand’s continuing effort to shift more transport activity onto rail while improving links between major economic centres, border areas and neighbouring countries.
The southern investment forms part of a wider expansion of Thailand’s double-track network, alongside projects being developed in other regions. Continued implementation will be important for improving freight capacity, operational reliability and regional connectivity, particularly as Thailand seeks to strengthen rail links with Malaysia and the broader Southeast Asian transport network.
Source: Bangkok Post
Thailand Approves Southern Double-Track Rail Expansion
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Thailand is accelerating railway investment to strengthen the capacity and reliability of its southern transport corridor, supporting passenger and freight movements toward Malaysia. The Cabinet has approved three major double-track projects worth about THB106.7 billion, while giving in-principle approval to three additional routes under the second phase of the national programme.
