Experts evaluate Airport Rail Link system before handover on Oct 25

The Eastern High-Speed Rail Linking Three Airports Co Ltd said it hopes to elevate the rail link into a mass transit system that encompasses travel routes between Bangkok and its suburbs. The high-speed rail project will also link the three main airports in Greater Bangkok, namely Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi and U-Tapao, from 2026.

Supachai Chearavanont, chief executive officer of Charoen Pokphand Group and chair of the Eastern High-Speed Rail Linking Three Airports Co’s executive board, said the company was ready to ensure a smooth transition from the State Railway of Thailand as per contract. He said the system has been progressing according to plan and set timeline.

Foreign and local experts are also conducting detailed site visits and collecting opinions about the rail link’s development and improvements to ensure seamless service upon handover.

“This project is the nation’s hope in reviving the economy, thus the company has been working to provide passengers a better travel experience once we take over operations.

“This has to be excellent from the first step with readiness in all aspects,” Supachai said.

Sarit Jinnasith, president of Eastern High-Speed Rail Linking Three Airports Co Ltd, said that though his company will receive management rights from October 25, it has found the need to invest more in operations and station improvements to ensure the provision of seamless service.

“The company prioritises preparations for the handover, thus when foreign experts recommended an improvement in the system and stations, the company decided to pour an additional 1.7 billion baht before the official handover,” he said.

Apart from improving the operation before the handover, the company is also planning further development and improvements in other aspects to boost safety and security, as well as enhance the level of service.

The project’s overview and progress can be viewed at

https://youtu.be/QmzmrmeWEY4