Thai Railways Studies Double-Track Project to Malaysia Border

Thai Railways is moving forward with the government's plan to study a double-track railway project connecting Hat Yai to Sungai Kolok in Malaysia, aimed at improving quality of life in four southern border provinces. On August 17, a meeting was held at BP Samila & Resort Hotel in Songkhla, chaired by Sangkhom Goed-Ko, Songkhla Deputy Governor. Thai Railways Governor Anant Pothnim reported the feasibility study findings via video conference, covering economic, engineering, and environmental aspects of the project, which spans approximately 215 kilometers with 26 stations and 8 stop points.

The project aims to develop the rail network, boost transport capacity and economic competitiveness, and raise living standards in Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces. It is designed to connect with existing rail routes from Surat Thani to Hat Yai and from Hat Yai to Padang Besar, with future plans to link Thailand's rail network directly to Malaysia's federal railway network. This expansion is expected to enhance freight and passenger transport, strengthen trade, investment, and tourism sectors, and create employment and development opportunities along the rail corridor and surrounding areas.

The Hat Yai–Sungai Kolok project will begin at Hat Yai Junction and extend through Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat, connecting with Malaysia's federal railway network. The initiative aligns with national strategy, government policy, and the national economic and social development plan, promising to improve transport efficiency, strengthen economic competitiveness, and boost trade, investment, and tourism capacity.