A vision moving at a snail’s pace
Thailand’s China-backed high-speed rail project is facing serious delays. Launched with great fanfare in December 2015 at Chiang Rak Noi in Ayutthaya, it was meant to revolutionize Thailand’s link to China. A decade later, progress is far below expectations.
The first phase from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima (253 km, budget 179.41 billion Baht) is moving at a snail’s pace. Out of 14 contract sections, only two are finished, ten are in progress, and two are stuck.
Problem contracts: Bang Sue–Don Mueang and Ayutthaya
Contract 4-1 (Bang Sue–Don Mueang, 15.21 km, 9.21 billion Baht) is on hold because it overlaps with CP Group’s airport high-speed link (Don Mueang–Suvarnabhumi–U-Tapao). Work is suspended until a revised joint-venture agreement is reached.
Even more critical is Contract 4-5 (Ban Pho–Phra Kaew, 13.3 km, 9.91 billion Baht). The proposed Ayutthaya station has sparked massive protests over potential impacts on the UNESCO World Heritage site. The original contractor, Boonchai Panich (1979) Co Ltd, pulled out, forcing the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) to re-tender.
Phase 2 in jeopardy
Authorities are already preparing Phase 2: a 357.12 km stretch from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai (budget 341.35 billion Baht). Cabinet approval came in February 2025, with tendering set for later this year and completion expected by 2031.
Experts warn that Phase 2’s success depends on resolving heritage disputes and finalizing outstanding contracts. “The delays show the complexity of balancing development with cultural preservation and private investment,” says The Nation.
China connection: Why it matters
The high-speed line is designed to connect Bangkok via Laos to China — a critical artery for trade, tourism, and regional connectivity. Faster travel times and improved logistics would strengthen Thailand’s position as a regional hub.
But with current delays, the question remains: can Minister Phiphat finally get Thailand’s bullet train moving, or will it remain stuck on the tracks for years to come?