Thailand’s Transport Minister, Suriya Juangroongruangkit, has directed the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) to conduct thorough quality checks on the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project. The inspections aim to ensure that construction meets internationally recognized standards before the project becomes operational.
The review will primarily focus on the first phase of the railway, which spans 250.77 kilometers between Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima. This phase involves 14 civil engineering contracts, with construction initiated under the administration of former Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha.
Concerns have been raised regarding the quality of work by the joint venture between Italian-Thai Development (ITD) and China Railway No. 10 Engineering Group (Thailand). Scrutiny has increased following the collapse of the State Audit Office building, which was being built by the same contractors.
Suriya has tasked SRT Governor Veeris Ammarapala with ensuring that all aspects of the construction, including materials and specifications, meet safety requirements before the railway enters service.
