BANGKOK, November 2025 — Progress Rail has secured a major contract to modernize a crucial railway corridor in Thailand, marking another significant milestone in the State Railway of Thailand’s (SRT) ongoing network upgrade programme. The project reflects the increasing adoption of advanced rail technologies across Southeast Asia as countries work to strengthen transport infrastructure and operational standards.

The agreement centres on the 167-kilometre Khon Kaen–Nong Khai route, a key section identified for comprehensive technical renewal. Under this contract, Progress Rail will install modern signalling systems, including ETCS Level 1, microprocessor-based interlocking, and upgraded dispatching systems. These enhancements form part of the second phase of SRT’s wider modernization plans, which seek to create a more integrated and efficient traffic management environment across the eleven stations along the corridor.

The upgrade is expected to deliver substantial improvements in operational efficiency, safety, and service reliability. By introducing advanced signalling and control technologies, SRT aims to streamline train movements, reduce delays, and enhance overall network resilience. This initiative also reinforces Progress Rail’s presence in Thailand’s rapidly evolving and competitive signalling market.

Thailand’s signalling sector features a strong lineup of global players, including Alstom, Hitachi Rail, and Siemens. Progress Rail’s successful bid demonstrates its capability to deliver sophisticated and reliable solutions that align with Thailand’s future-oriented rail development goals. The adoption of ETCS Level 1 also signals SRT’s intention to move towards internationally recognised operational standards as part of its long-term strategy.

As Thailand continues to invest in transforming its rail infrastructure, the modernization of the Khon Kaen–Nong Khai corridor represents a vital step towards creating a more advanced, integrated, and future-ready national rail system. The project supports broader regional trends in digitalisation and intelligent rail operations, paving the way for improved performance, capacity, and connectivity across the network.

Source: Railway Supply