Govt nod for two Bangkok rail lines
The Cabinet yesterday approved two commuter rail projects of the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand
The Sukhumvit Road extension will cost Bt17.838 billion and the other line Bt19.381 billion. Both projects are under the so-called Dark Green line and will be conducted using internal loans guaranteed by the Finance Ministry.
The Cabinet approval did not provide details whether the Mor Chit-Saphan Mai line would be on an elevated rail structure or through an underground tube, as it would stretch through Kasetsart intersection where there is already a flyover and a tunnel.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration had sought government approval to build this line through a BTS joint venture on an elevated rail structure but the Interior Ministry preferred it be laid through an underground tube. The newly opened extension from Onnuj to Bearing was approved and is now operated by BTS.
A BTS section over Saphan Khwai area will require demolition of a flyover, when it is erected.
