BANGKOK, November 2025 — The Thai railway network is set to receive a significant upgrade with Progress Rail securing its first contract for lineside signalling equipment in the country. This development is part of a broader initiative to enhance rail infrastructure and connectivity across the nation.

The contract, awarded by the main contractor Ch Thawee–AS Construction Joint Venture, involves the design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of ETCS Level 1 lineside and onboard equipment. This technology will be implemented along the 167 km metre-gauge route connecting Khon Kaen to Nong Khai, a critical corridor near the border with Laos.

This substantial infrastructure upgrade is anticipated to significantly increase the capacity for freight traffic moving between Thailand, Laos, and China. The enhanced efficiency is expected to lead to a reduction in overall transport costs, thereby bolstering regional trade and economic integration.

Hyung Kim, EVP of Infrastructure for Progress Rail, noted this as a milestone, stating, "This marks our team’s first wayside project in Thailand, building on our ongoing ETCS Level 1 onboard initiatives." He added that Progress Rail is enhancing its presence in Bangkok to ensure optimal project execution and customer proximity.

This project aligns with Thailand's national programme to double-track a substantial portion of its extensive metre-gauge network, aiming to modernize its rail system and improve its role as a logistics hub in Southeast Asia.

Source: Railway Gazette International