LinesEast:CC'Sao-LaemChabangDoubling [Archive]

Wisarut

20-07-04, 02:39 PM

Khun The Enforcer,

Busy cargo trains from the Northern and Northeast region to Laem Chabang as wellas Mapthaput are using Kaengkhoi - Klong Kip Kao route as a daily routine since it bypass BKK.

However, it would be a lot better if there is anohter cord line from Ban Phachee to Klogn Sip Kao so that the norhtern industry could ship theri product to Laem Chabang without going to Kaeng Khoi first.

Even better so, the lien from Kaeng Khoi to Klong SIp Kao should be double tracked so that it will allow SRT to introduce the commuter line fo Kaeng Khoi via Chachoengsao and it will supoports the the City at Banna.

However such kind of double tracking will have to wait until the doublke tracking of Chachongsao to Laem Chbang is opened fro services.

The Enforcer!

20-07-04, 03:05 PM

Thanks Khun Wisarut,

Should have guessed that you would know!

The Enforcer!

pong

09-08-04, 07:31 PM

thanks again for the response, Khun Wisarut, ooff, this is really non-Thai clear and no-so soophap.
Yes, I know that they upgrade the easern line to double track, extensive works, several completely new stations, I was thus delayed 2 or 3 times for over 1 hr just to reach ChaChoengSao (took over 3 hrs..., next time bus!), and I know that in the peaks 2 special trains make the bypass from northern line to eastern (direct SamSen to Makkasan), but now I wonder, why they shorten the eastern line, after so heavy investment, to NOT have a connection into either sky/metro??

Wisarut

09-08-04, 10:06 PM

Well, the Double track of Eastern Line run from Hua Mark to Chachongsao ... but they have NOT finished the installation of signals yet.

Even worse, the increasing traffic between Ladkrabang ICD and Laem Chabang Port has created the new congestion ... thu the fdouble track between Chachoengsao to Laem Chabang via Sri Racha is a BIG must.

After the introduction fo Chitladda Triangle in 1936, it created an artificial Double track from Urupongse to Makkasan.

Well, many SRT workers feel Jealous when the Subway/Skytrain has beocme a reality while they have NO change to any expansion beyong double tracking., thus they REFUSE to construct any shades or better platform for passengers to transfer to Skytrain or Subway, and decline to add more stop to Phayathai Stop and Asok Stop ...

Oh, you are refering to Rangsit - Hua Takhet train and Rangsit to Changchongsao whcih have been shortened? What else?

Tower 43

25-09-04, 06:28 AM

What has been done this year between Hua Mak and Chachoengsao to double track the line.

Jack
Tower 43

Wisarut

25-09-04, 09:27 AM

Khun Jack,

According to SRT source, I could make a chronicle of the double tracking of the section from Hua Mark to Chachongsao

Hua Mark - CHaognsao dounel tracking was done by the Joint venture between ITD and Cogifer TF.

The Construction Started: December 12, 2000
The construction DONE: April 11, 2003
Opening without New Signal Installation: December 15, 2003

Tower 43

25-09-04, 03:04 PM

K. Wisarut,

Thanks for the response. I lived in Bangkok almost 4 years between 1994 and 1999 and spent many hours riding the SRT.

Is there a plan to install automatic signals between Hua Mak and Chachoengsao?

Is there any plan to double track the line between Makkasan and Hua Mak?

What about the track arrangement where the Eastern Line connects to the Northern Line at Kilometer Post 3. I called this location Eastern Line Junction when I lived in Bangkok. There is a signal box at both ends of that connection.

Has there been any changes to this section of track. I always thought that additional crossover switches immediately east of Eastern Line Junction would make the double track more flexible between that point and Makkasan. There were many delays to trains at Makkasan waiting for a train to come from Eastern Line Junction.

Best Regards,

Wisarut

25-09-04, 05:14 PM

Yep, SRT is planing to install such automatic signal between Hua Mark to Chachongsao so as to handle the incrasing cargo traffic between ICD to Laem Chabang. So far, the rails for double tracking is 100 Lb/yard welded steel rails with concrete sleepers ... significantly improved the riding quality and the speed for both passengers and cargo trains of Eastern lines.

The increasing traffic between Laem Chabang to ICD (Lad Krabang) has become a major reason for Chachongsao - Laem Chabang Double tracking even though it has not been started yet at the time being.

After finishing Chachongsao - Laem Chabang Double tracking, Kaeng Khoi - Klong Sip Kao - Chachongsoa route will be double tracked .... so as to bypass BKK all the way to Isan region.

NO PLAN for double tracking between Makkasan to Hua Mark since The Suvannahum Airport Link (Phyathai - Makkasan - NBIA) have end any further need for double tracking. SRT has erected the signs for eviction on those who illegaly settled along the Eastern railway tracks from Phyathai to Lad Krabang.

You are refering to Chitladda Triangle. (the place where Norhtenr Rialway and Eastern Railway has intersected. So far, ONLY Yommaraj Stop is there ...

Not much has been changed on Chitladda Triangle. However, there will be a BIG change ONLY when the constructiuon of the extenstion of Airport Link from Phyathai
to Bangsue has been started.

You care refering to Uruphongse stop ... the place you asked for the automatic signal installation to enable the section from Uruphongse to Makkasan to be a true double tracking.
This should be applied to Bangsue junction so as to increase the traffic of the Southern commuter lines and meet the local demands for the Soutehrn commuters.

Tower 43

26-09-04, 07:10 PM

K. Wisarut,

Many thanks for the information.

Sounds like the double tracking from Chachoengsao to Klong Sip Kao and Laem Chabang is a few years off. I used to go to Chachoengsao and Klong Sip Kao often to photograph trains.

When automatic signals are installed on the Eastern Line double track will the control be centralized (CTC) or will each station still control switches and signals?

I have located the map for the Airport Link. Is there a map anywhere that shows the station names in English?

I really appreciate knowing the correct name for Eastern Line Junction, "Chitladda Triangle". Can you tell me what the north and south signal boxes are named in the Chitladda Triangle.

I am glad to know the name Yommaraj and Uruphongse stops. I never could get anyone to tell me the English name.

Can you provide me with the English name for the four wheel push cars that people use for transportation on the track between stations on the Eastern Line as well as other lines. People also use them on the line to the Port of Bangkok for moving all kinds of goods.

Has the double track been completed and open between Bang Sue Junction and Trailing Chan Junction?

R. Zimmermann

16-12-04, 03:35 PM

The section from Hua Mak to Chachoengsao is in fact triple track,
similar to north of Rangsit. Two tracks are new, the former single
track has been fully refurbished. As much as I have observed,
the "third" track (i.e. the "old" one) is exclusively used by container- and other freight trains.

It seems that in spite of a now close to perfect track on the Eastern
Line, service has not been improved. In fact the latest time table
shows two pairs of trains less than before - and of course the Ban
Phlutaluang service is now completely gone on weekends.

Haven't been on the southern line for some time: Has the
third track from Bang Sue to Thaling Chan indeed been commissioned?

Wisarut

16-12-04, 05:44 PM

Khun Renier,

This is due to the Pressure by Ai Suriya on SRT to Cut Down
10 passenger trips on the Eastern Line so he can sell more cars.

This kidn of UGLY pressure has IGNITED public ANGRY toward both SRT and Ai Suriya, esp from thsoe KMITL Student who
have to rely on Eastern Railway as commuter lines for them.
Sooner or later, SRT will have to resume some of these abandoned commter trips ...

The Pressure by Jeh Kiaw (the opwner of Choedchai Tour) has made the introduction fo the trip to Pattaya IMPOSSIBLE that thje time Being ... Thsi is anotehr sorce of Public Angry toward SRT and Ai Suriya sicne Jeh Kiawe is a stuanch supporter of TRT so the governemtn need to take care of her demands at the expense of publci well being, that's it!

Okay, cargo trips between Lad Krabang ICD and Laem Chabgn are growing very well though ...

/// ---------------------------------------------------------------

I got the latest report that the track from Bangsue to Nakhon pathom is under REHABILITATION since they have foung that the Contractors have used Substandard materials and Substandard engineering practices whcih requie severl corrections:

1) Thin ballast - need to be thicker ...

2) the lack of steel and carbon fiber Reinforcement on Rama 6 bridge to enable SRT to run Heavy Locos (GEA + HID) at the same time on That bridge

3) The replacement of the old 70 Lb/yard steel rail with 100 Lb/yard welded steel rail .. those old usuable 70 lb rail will be used to rehabilitate Mae Klong line from Ban Laem to Mae Klong though ...

4) the replacement of wooden sleepers with concrete sleepers.

5) Signal installation from Bangsue to Nakhon Pathom, Hua Mark to Chachongsao, and Ban Phachee to map Krabao are
JUST Starting -> after Bombadier has started working on the signal installation since May 4, 2004.

According to the schedule, the signal instllation on double track from Bangsue to Nakhon Pathom, Hua Mark to Chachongsao, and Ban Phachee to map Krabao, they will be DONE in May 2006.

Tower 43

16-12-04, 07:39 PM

Khun Renier,

"Hua Mak to Chachoengsao is in fact triple track,
the "third" track (i.e. the "old" one) is exclusively used by container- and other freight trains."

That suggests that the SRT has not improved the flow of container trains at all as this arrangement would still require container trains to meet at passing loops which I assume have not been extended to accommodate more than 30 cars.

It would seem to me that one of the benefits in having double track is to increase train size from 30 to 40 or more wagons. While the double track is not completed south of Chachoengsao Jct. a couple of longer passing loops would allow longer trains on that section. SRT progress is painfully slow which is great news for all the consultants.

Wisarut

16-12-04, 11:26 PM

Khun Tower43,

Weel, for the container stuff, SRT workers found that if they put too many container cars (more than the threshold of 30 cars), the locos usually goes OUT OF ORDER since they have been hevilyt used and abused .... even double heading does NOT healf very much since all the servicable locos have bene undeer stress and strains ....

A feew weeks ago, many Hitachi Locos (the locos suitable for container trains) have to go to have major overhaul due to overworking ...

Tower 43

17-12-04, 12:41 AM

K. Wisarut,

Sure sounds like things went down hill since I was last there in November 1999.

I wonder if the SRT reported profit of 200 million Baht was real. I assumed that it was just someone trying to make things look better than they really are. Maybe the 200 million profit is the result of eliminating heavy rebuild work at Makkasan Shops.

So in 2005 they will have a 900 million Baht loss because they have to add people to do rebuilds or go out of business. If they don't do the heavy maintenance soon the new Chinese locomotives will be to little and to late.

Wisarut

17-12-04, 01:33 AM

One sure thing I from from SRT insideer, the Profit is REAL but
with vey high price tag .... Many of them come from the cost cutting measure whcih will come to HAUNT them later .... the cost cutting on the maintianace stuffs is the the fisrt to become a ghosts that HAUNT SRT right now.

Now, The Engine of Hitachi has to to Horsepowere cut down from 2900 HP to 2500 HP since the turbo chargers in Hitachi loco have cuase too many problems esp when they have to haul the cargo trains uphill form Sial At to Chaing Mai and Kaeng Khoi to Pak Chong (the test ground for ALL locos, railcars and DMUs .. failture to do so will DISQUALFY the bidder from winning the buid for the new locos ....

The ONLY remedy of this problem is to use the same CUMMING engine whcih the new GE loco use 2 x 1250 HP) .... conventional Comming Engine solve such a problem .... at the expense of horsepower reduction.

Even worse, there are thefts inside the mechanic shops who steal the reparing toolkits. for the locos to be sold at the junkyard due to the high price of steel .... not jsutt the iron fishplates ... nuts and bolts, or iron nails Now, the mechanic shops are REQUIRED to open the toolbox every time they they asked for the toolkits .... to check whetehr the toolkits have been stolen or not.

Well, the Rehabilitated rail are supposed to be 100 Lb/yard ... but they have stored so many 80 Lb/yard rail so much that it is mroe logical to use the reserved 80 Lb/yard rail unti they are running out of steel rails. After that, they will order the 100 Lb/yard steel rails .... and concrete sleepers have been designed to accpet both 100 Lb and 80 Lb rails ....

R. Zimmermann

18-12-04, 12:55 PM

Thanks, Khun Wisarut, for that bit of interesting background. Did
Thai papers report? It should be a major issue if politics indeed
sabotaged the interest of public transport users. Indeed, a
train I saw coming up (with a string of ex-Queensland coaches)
was INCREDIBLY overcrowed with passengers hanging out on
the door steps, not for "sanuk" but out of bitter necessity. It looked like totally third world.
Is it that the impression which government wants to project?
I think that train must have been the 372 from Prachinburi (or 388 from Chachoengsao)

Wisarut

18-12-04, 03:04 PM

A the tiem being, the press has NOT tackled the issue on the train trip reduction of the Eastern as well as the Norhtern line along with the terminal changing.

However, the press seems to be BIASING against the Railway ... when Loco is hittign small cars despire of the fact that they make an ILLEGAL crossing. Same can be said to the sympathy toward those squatters who illegally occupy Railway land and set up the shanty towns. alogn the routes.

However, Many Thai netters have come up with
discussion and of course the FLAME thrower and Venom injection are heading to both SRT Director and Minister Suriya.... the teh start is non other than those Students from KMITL ... some of them are Thai railfans ...... Some even want to TORCH those houses belonged to thsoe slum dwellers wh oset their illegal home on the railway land.

Wisarut

18-04-05, 07:05 PM

You can go to look at My Photo on Eastern Railway to
Ban Plu Ta Luang (via Pattaya) here:

http://www.rotfaithai.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=2751

Wisarut

21-04-05, 10:26 AM

Plutaluang Trip
http://www.rotfaithai.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=2751

Aranyaprathet Trip
http://www.rotfaithai.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=2776

numpty

05-07-06, 09:25 AM

Did this line ever get serviced?

I'm pretty sure I found an old timetable on line but can't find it now so if anyone has any information about this line I'd be pleased to hear about it.

Wisarut

05-07-06, 03:46 PM

Intitially, Regular 51/52 were runnign from BKK to Aranyaprathet since nov 8, 1926 .... After getting VBattambang in 1941, Train 51/52 were extended to Battamabang .... The extend to Savaidornkaeo and Phnompenn would run ONLy special request.

However, the service of Regular 51/52 had been shortened back to BKK - Aranyuaprathet after December 17, 1946. :(

Ther were test running services for the trackign connectign with Cambddia durign the early day of Cambodian Independence before official running in April 22, 1955. The service terminated again in 1961 due to the Strain relationship with Cambodian on Khao Phraviharn

The service resumed again in 1971 before terminated again in 1974 due to Khmer Rouge ....

Now, the track in cambodia is not justy missing, it is also at very bad shape that they allow ONLY Monthly service between Phnompenn to Battmbang ... it takes 13-15 hour to go between Phnompenn and Battmabang:eek: !

numpty

06-07-06, 06:54 AM

Thanks for that Wisarut

My understanding is the PP - Battambang runs now weekly while the Bamboo Train meets needs outside of that schedule :cool:

Cambodia's bamboo train (http://the-spiceislands.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=311)

Wisarut

18-12-06, 08:50 PM

Now, the New SRT Board and Bangkok Biznews are investigating on the IRREGULAR Deal between SRT and Win Coast Industrial Park PCL ... whcih is about to be started in Jan 1, 2007 .... with at least 2 daily services betwen Map Ta Put and Laem Chabang
which can be described as follows:

Irregular deals with SRT - Another project to Award Thaksin's Cronies
Bangkok Biznews - Dec 18, 2006

New SRT Board and Bangkok Biznews are investigating on the IRREGULAR Deal between SRT and Win Coast Industrial Park PCL ... whcih is about to be started in Jan 1, 2007 ...

1) The deal has been awarded to Win Coast Industrial Park PCL without BIDDING

2) Win Coast is just hiring SRT to repared 2 decommissioned Locos instead of buying 2 new locos for logistic services between Map Ta Put and Laem Chabang

3) Instead of buying 50 new BCFs, WIn Coast is just leasing 50 old BCFs from SRT for the logistic matter.

4) Even though WIn Coast has promised to rehabilitated the track from Laem CHabang to Map Ta Put, so far they have NEVER started yet ...

5) Wincoast Industrial Park PCL has 2 subsidiaries with
5.1) Wincoast Logistics
5.2) WIncoast Transports

Miss Shinnicha Wongsawat, a niece of Ai Maew is runnign both subsidiaries ... and she allows Ms. Yaowapha Wongsawat (Ai Maew's Sister and Miss Shinnisha's Mother) to run the Board of DIrectors of WIn Coast.

6) Even though Win Coast is promising to pay SRT 3400-3500/BCFs/day, I afraid that Win Coast is goign to refuse to pay by claiming that they have paid SRT a lease of 50 BCFs at 2000 Baht/BCF/a day .... while they reap the benefit of 2860 Baht a day for themselves ....

GWR

14-01-07, 11:03 PM

LAEM CHABANG
Too many wharves, not enough rail lines

Eastern Seaboard port faces capacity oversupply

Laem Chabang port faces a likely oversupply position once four terminals launch operations this year while demand remains tepid, with only a slight growth in the number of containers passing through the port.

Although the deep-sea port on the Chon Buri coast can handle giant vessels, trading companies are still reluctant to use it since the railway that would facilitate land shipment of goods at lower cost is unfinished.

While freight-handling capacity will surge this year, the port still has no railway links.

Chalermkiat Salakkum, managing director of Laem Chabang Port, said last week that LCMT Co's A0 wharf will be operable in April and Hong Kong-based Hutchison's C0, C1 and C2 piers will go into service between next month and the end of the year.

"The increase in jetties will cause an oversupply situation, compared with the number of vessels and containers at the port. This will also put pressure on wharf operators as competition [for business] steps up," he said.

Last year, about four million containers passed through Laem Chabang. Over the next five years, the facility is expected to handle up to 10 million containers if all the winners of concessions open terminals as expected.

"Major players in the wharf-service business will likely compete fiercely to capture customers, resulting in a loss to some operators," Chalermkiat said.

Customers might also suffer from lower efficiency in servicing, he said.

If the operators provide a lower quality of service, it's up to the Port Authority of Thailand to regulate them, he said.

Laem Chabang is a destination port, carrying out both loading and unloading of vessels. It needs a high volume of arriving and departing ships and containers to operate efficiently.

To compete with deep-sea ports in other countries such as Malaysia and Vietnam, the terminal operators should do whatever is necessary to attract cargo ships to pick up and deliver freight at Laem Chabang, especially those from southern China, Chalermkiat said.

Expansion of port facilities should speed up the laying of double-track railroads connecting other parts of the country to the harbour. When in place, the rail routes will greatly augment the existing transportation modes, mainly trucking. A rail network will boost freight traffic to and from the port and spin off economies of scale.

"We will have to keep operating costs as low as possible while providing fast and quality service. Otherwise, shippers will turn to other ports," Chalermkiat said.

The proposed Pak Bara deep-sea port in the southern province of Satun will poach some types of vessels away from Laem Chabang, he said.

The government should give thorough consideration for the sake of the country's logistics policy as to whether that project is really worth the investment, he added.

Watcharapong Thongrung

The Nation

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2007/01/15/business/business_30024126.php

gerf4501

15-01-07, 04:48 AM

GWR

15-01-07, 07:39 AM

“Although the deep-sea port on the Chon Buri coast can handle giant vessels, trading companies are still reluctant to use it since the railway that would facilitate land shipment of goods at lower cost is unfinished.

While freight-handling capacity will surge this year, the port still has no railway links.”

Although the above quote seems clear enough, I can hardly believe Laem Chabang port has no rail link. Is this true?

I began to think I had got it mixed up with other ports in the region. I imagine the article was written by a person who has never previously given much thought to Thailand's ports. I suspect the real idea here is that the new wharves have not yet received dedicated spurs.

See 1:50,000 image of Laem Chabang's rail link. However, there is no doubt at all that SRT need to expedite the doubling of the track from Chachoengsao to Laem Chabang. The Sattahip line is restricted to one passenger train per day precisely because as much capacity as possible is needed for Laem Chabang on the single track line. From Khun Wisaruth's comments, it really is this port connection that is keeping the whole network alive: -

http://i13.tinypic.com/4fyjfvm.jpg

otherstuff1957

28-02-07, 09:46 AM

I'll be using the Eastern Line commuter trains to get to work for the next couple of months and have found them to be running 1 to 2 hours late!:( A delay of 15 or 20 minutes is to be expected, but when a train that is supposed to arrive at Huamak at 8:28 actually gets there at 10:15, well, I may have to start using the bus. :(

I expect that the delays are caused by construction of the Airport Link, does anyone know if they are going to get better or is scheduled train travel to the East going to become impractical?:eek:

Wisarut

28-02-07, 11:26 AM

That must be the conflicting schedule with Cargotrain between Lad Krabng ICD and Laem Chabang that grobble the space for commuters :(

Furthermore, the bottlenecks at Yomaraj is anotehr headache whcih cause delay by 1 hour sicne the Police REFUSE to allow the train to runb durign RUSH HOUR ... until 60 minute laters.

otherstuff1957

01-03-07, 02:43 PM

Well, this morning I tried to catch the 7:15 train from Makkasan, instead of the usual 8:15. Well, the train took off at 7:25 sharp and arrived at Huamak at 7:45 - getting me to work about 40 minutes early :eek: ! The only thing that preserves my normal opinion of the SRT is that my ticket said that I was on the 6:51 train!:p

GWR

04-03-07, 10:52 PM

As so often with SRT articles in The Nation, the headline and the article don't match up; let alone add up!:

SRT to seek Bt615m for track work

The State Railway of Thailand will ask the Cabinet for Bt615 million to cover increased costs for the Chachoengsao-Laem Chabang Port double-track railway project.

Acting governor Thawin Samnakorn said last week that the agency's proposal to the Transport Ministry contained three key requests - raising the construction project's estimated budget from Bt5.24 billion to Bt5.8 billion, extending the SRT's debt from five to eight years (2004-2011), and cancelling the bidding conditions with China initiated by the previous government.

The previous budget was based on assumptions in 2004 and has been revised up to reflect current economic circumstances, he said.

The SRT has also suggested conducting the tender via an electronic auction with participation by both international and local contractors.

"If the Cabinet approves our proposal, the project is expected to open for bidding in May," Thawin said.

For the procurement of rolling stock on the 87-kilometre route from Chachoengsao to Laem Chabang in Chon Buri, the SRT will discuss further with the Port Authority of Thailand and the private sector on how to structure a joint investment.

"This project follows the government's policy to accelerate rail projects as they are beneficial to the country in terms of increasing transport efficiency," Thawin said.

The SRT will also discuss with the transport minister details of extending the line from Chachoengsao to Lop Buri and Nakhon Sawan, to link the East with the North.

"If the minister agrees, the SRT will revise its investment plan again and propose it to the Transport Ministry," he said.

Watcharapong Thongrung
The Nation

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2007/03/05/business/business_30028487.php

Wisarut

06-03-07, 10:59 AM

This is a reference to the followign double track in addition to the upcoming Chachoengsao - Laem Chabang

1) Chachoengsao - Klong 19 - Kaeng Khoi
2) Lopburi - Nakhon Sawan
3) Chord lines at Chachoengsao - Kaeng Khoi and Ban Phachi

Wisarut

09-03-07, 10:45 AM

SRT Board Approving the Airport Link Contract Extension for STECON
Asking Cabinate to Pay 5.895 Billion Baht for Chachoengsao - Laem Chabang Double Tracking
Matichon - March 8, 2007
Manager - March 8, 2007

Admiral Theera (MOT Minister) told the press after visiting SRT that

1) MOT is going to push Red line commuter (Bangsue - Talingchan) by the end of March 2007 so SRT would start bidding process in April 2007.

However, the section from Bangsue to Rangsit will need to be waited for a while since OTP is goign to add 5 more stations
on the final drawing.

1.1) Lak Hok (between Rangsit and Donmuang - to pick up those who live in Muang Ek and Rangsit U.)

1.2) Karn Keha (between Laksi and Donmuang - to pick up those who live in NHA apartments at km 19 and this is the station nearest to Jeh Leng Shopping Mall)

1.3) Thung Song Hong (between Bangkhen [Ngam Wong Wan] and Laksi - to pick up those who work in North Park and thsoe who study at Dhurakij Pundit University).

1.4) Wat Samian Naree (between Km11 Stop and Bang Khen - to pick up thsoe who live in Prachaniwet 1 village)

1.5) Mochit 2 (AKA Km 11 - to pick up thsoe railwaymen as well as those who want to go to Mochit 2 Bus terminal)

2) SRT Board is goignto extend the Airport Link contract with STECON on from the old expration date of 30 Nov 2007 due to delay on transferring the land. However SRT Board would NOT allow 500 day extension as requested by STECON

However, the contract extension would force SRT to pay interest on loan whcih is too much for SRT due to the lack of cash. The interest will be paid by either refinancing or usign taxpayer money to cover the cost overrrun due to delays. Furthermore, SRT Board would ask STECON to share this cost overrun.

Mr. Siva (SRT Board Director) told the press that SRT Board is goign to ask the cabinate for more budget on Chachoengsao - Laem Chabang double tracking (78 km). The delays on implementing this project has caused budget to baloon from the approved 5.235 billion Baht to 5.895 billion Baht. The request from SRT Board to Cabinate would also include the approval of SRT General Manager (SRT Governor) whterh to allow Mr. Yutthaya Thapcharoen to be SRT Governor or asking
for new election.

WIthout real SRT Governor, there will be NOBODY to sign the approval of Chachoengsao - Laem Chabang project which is one of critical project for SRT Survival since this project would boost more revenue for SRT on this lucrative route from 400 million to 800 million Baht. Similar thign can be said to Red lien commuter netwrok project.

Maptaphut

02-05-07, 06:28 AM

Under normal conditions it should be possible to accept 75 - 80 trains daily on a singletrack railwayline. Who many daily trains on the singletrack Eastern railway from Chachoensao
out to Sri Racha? I think it should be possible to link the Eastern seabord with a hourly Intercity-system based on fast DMUs between Pattaya and the new airport/Makkasan. One daily train on weekdays with 3.class only is nearly a joke.
In the weekends it is a big need for railtransport out there; the roads is a nightmare on fridays and sundays! And what is the situation for SRT: somebody knows about investment in rolling stock?:confused:

Wisarut

05-05-07, 05:32 PM

If the track from Chachonegsoa to Laem Chabang have such a capacvity fo 75 - 80 trains is true which is possible, LET me tell you some facts so you can come up with better idea.

1. Most of the traffic goes to the money-maker Cargo trains - Just Ladkrabang ICD - Laemchabang alone got 24 trains a day .... and SRT is making a strong wish to run this lucrative serives at 50 trips a day :eek:

2. Furthermore other cargo trains including the oil trains to/from Laem Chabang, gas trains to Bang Lamung, Industrial trian to Map Taput, landbridge services betwe grobble even more capacity as stated here:

2.1) LPG
2.1.1) Bang Lamung - Nakhon sawan
2.1.2) Bang Lamung - Lampang
2.1.3) Bang Lamung - Samran

2.2) Crude Oil
2.2.1) Bueng Phra - Laem Chabang

2.3) Refined Oil
2.3.1) Map Ta Put - Nakhon Sawan
2.3.2) Map Ta Put - Bueng Phra
2.3.3) Map Ta Put - Lampang
2.3.4) Map Ta Put - Chiang Mai
2.3.5) Map Ta Put - Khon Kaen
2.3.6) Map Ta Put - Ubon Ratchathanee

2.4) Cargo train Direct from Phaholyothin (Bang Sue)
2.4.1) Phaholyothin (Bangsue) - Map Ta Phut

2.5) Cargo trains Direct from Laem Chabang
2.5.1) Laem Chabang - Nong Pho
2.5.2) Laem Chabang - Nakhon Sawan
2.5.3) Laem Chabang - Nakhon sawan (or Laem Chabang - Kamnan Song Rice Depot in Nakhon Sawan)
2.5.4) Laem Chabang - Kud Jik
2.5.5) Laem Chabang - Nakhon Ratchasima - Thanon Jira
2.5.6) Laem Chabang - Ban Koh
2.5.7) Laem Chabang - Bua Yai
2.5.8) Laem Chabang - Buriram
2.5.9) Laem Chabang - Tha Phra - Khon kaen - None Phayom
2.5.10) Laem Chabang - Map Ta Phut - Map Ta Phut Port

2.6) Direct Cargo Train MISC
2.6.1) Map Ta Phut - Tha Phra
2.6.2) Map Ta Phut - None Phayom

BTW, there is already more than 4,000,000 tons of cargo goign between Chachognsao - Lam Chabang - so the logn overdue dobel trackign is a BIG must.

3) Furthermore, this section must be rehab for sure since the 70 lb steel rail from Don Srinone (rigfht after Bang Pakong Bridge) has been already thinned by heavy cargo train.

4) SRT is RUNNING OUT of servicable Locos as well as 1st/2nd aircon carriages asd well as the 2nd class DMU/3rd DMU due to accident or so .... and there are already big scramble to get the locos and DMU available for the route with strong demands. SRT has to cancel Chiangmai Rapid 101/110 and Nongkhai Rapid 137/138 as well as other Ordinary trains/mixed trains/local trains to make locos and carriages.

This shortage has already become a tug of war between peiople from different regions.

5) the traffic jam at Yommaraj has caused lots of delays to send the Eastern trains as well as otehr train out of BKK Station .... When SRT tried to terminate eastern trains at Makkasan as well as Northern and Northern eastern train at Bangsue, the passengers/public at large have BOOED such a decision and compell SRT to put all the trains terminate at BKK Station desptie of traffic jam at Yommaraj intersection.

Wisarut

09-05-07, 06:21 PM

If you want SRT to extend the Eastern Commuter form Chachognsao to Pattaya, these consitions must be met

1. Double tracking from Kaeng Khoi to Laem Chabang (about 162 km + 3 km chord lines at Chachoengsao, Ban Phachi and Kaeng Khoi) via Chachongsao - this requite the first batch of loan.

2. Massive rehabilitation of the track form Chachonegsao to Map Ta Put ... now the steel rails is so thin that they cna derail the cargo trains at ANY SECONDs .... :eek:

3. New sets of powerful locos for cargo (at least 200 sets for 34 BCFs per set - 50 trips daily for ICD - Laem Chabang alone) as well as aircon DMUs for passenger services (Aircon DMUs are considred as the 2nd class -> Need at least 200 sets of 2-car formation DMUs -> for all the intercity services to meet the passengers' demands)

Note: 1 Loco = 100 - 120 million Baht - 1 set of aircon DMU (2-car formation) is 100 milion Baht

Maptaphut

10-05-07, 02:45 AM

Wisarut

10-05-07, 10:18 PM

Of course we know all this. This important project have to be set on the political agenda. The line is absolutely crowded out to Sri Racha, but from there the
capacity is good, specially in the daytime. For people living in the eastern seabord a reliable
railconnection is necessary. Many want to live here and work in Bangkok; with
a railconnection with fast Intercitytrains it should be possible. Today it is not:
You have to use from 2 hours up to 4h40min at the worst in road-trafficjams!You never know!
Politicans have to look at the eastern seabord as a place for Bangkokians to live!
Big investments? Of course, but it is necessary ! What are the alternatives?

Sorry, thsoe politicians (except the local ones or thsoe for Chonburi) NEVER share the same sentiments as YOU ... They have their own HIDDEN AGENDA will FRUSTRATE it they are REVEALED .... They will REJECT your viewpoints if the viewpoints go AGAINST theri own selfish interests for sure.

Nevertheless, the rehabilitation from Chachongsaoto Laem chabang is undergoing sicne I foudn that they have replaced 70 lb/yard rails with 100 lb/yard on hte main track of Sri racha Junction and I found big piles of steel rails of 80-100 lb/yard (20 yard long) alogn with new quarry .... thsoe rails are imported in 2006 from RZH though.

However, SRT need a new governor (not the acting one) to sing the contract forr doubel tracking .....

ncr

10-05-07, 11:39 PM

Khun Wisarut,

1. What is RZH?

2. Why does SRT currently have an acting director; what is the process for finding/appointing a new one; and when can we expect him to take office?

Wisarut

11-05-07, 09:14 AM

1. RZH may be the short name of the steel rail producer ... so far I have no clue where SRT order the new batch of steel rails in 2006.

GWR

11-05-07, 10:29 AM

RZH is a port code for Rizhao in China. I note that Khun Wisaruth says 'imported from RZH', but I would NOT swear this is the only possible explanation.

Rizhao appears to have two ports and a portside steelworks:

http://www.rizhao.gov.cn/en/portside.asp

Steel and Iron Industry: Rizhao is one of the steel production bases in China. It has the largest ore berth. Neighboring the ports, there is over 100 km2industrial area with sufficient water and power supply.The iron and steel industry has been set up leading by Rizhao Steel & Iron Plant with production of 3.5 million t/a. It is planned that Rizhao will become a iron and steel base with the production of 20 million t/a by 2010.

Wisarut

11-05-07, 10:59 AM

Well, it is possible that SRT DID import steel rails from Rizhao, Shandong province of China -> That is due to FTA with mainlaand China ... and
7 Chinese Locos from CNR will follow SOON :eek:

Maptaphut

11-05-07, 12:37 PM

...Yes, politicans is the same shit everywere. Everyone have their own local agenda. But sometimes their brains see the light together; if not it would be no
railways, no highways, nothing... As You see, I have still a hope !

GWR

11-05-07, 09:28 PM

Related thread on the recent expansion of Laem Chabang. More reason to double those tracks soon:

http://www.angkor.com/2bangkok/2bangkok/forum/showthread.php?p=14434#post14434

Wisarut

12-05-07, 09:18 PM

Oh, Wyncoast Logistics is runnign cargo trains between Laem Chabang to Map Ta Put 5 times a day ....

Wyncoast Logistics is paying lease to SRT for 2 GEK locos and 46 BCFs despite of the fact that SRT is runnign out of servicable locos and BCFs shortage is another headache for SRT .... :mad: :eek:

Hope that they can get 2 New locos and 50 new BCFs so they can return our GEK locos and 46 BCFs back to SRT as they cliamed.

Wisarut

16-05-07, 01:02 PM

Now, I got the latest news that the cabinate has approved the budget of for double tracking of Chachongsao - Laem Chabang route (78 km) with a price tag of 5.85 billion Baht.

This is one of economic stimulation packages ..... :p

However, the cabinate has NOT apporoved the restructure plan for SRT :(

GWR

16-05-07, 11:57 PM

STATE RAILWAY
Debt-hit SRT set to outsource

Assets, routes and logistics to go private

The state Railway of Thailand (SRT) plans to hand over three parts of its operations to the private sector, hoping that these will be its major income generators in the future.

Following the authority's latest rehabilitation plan, chief financial officer Arak Ratboriharn said the SRT would set up three wholly owned subsidiaries.

These would handle asset management, rail-route operations and logistics management.

"The plan is expected to be proposed to the Cabinet within the next two weeks," he said.

The asset-management firm will be responsible for SRT's land plots.

The second firm will be in charge of electric and suburban rail routes, including the Airport Rail Link project linking Suvarnabhumi Airport to inner Bangkok and the Red Line from Taling Chan to Bang Sue.

The third firm will manage logistics for freight between Bangkok and Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri.

"For the three new companies, professional management will be hired and the operations will be outsourced to private companies instead of the SRT shifting some of its own officials to handle it," said Arak.

He said the subsidiaries would be more flexible in terms of management than the state-owned SRT, which must operate under the Public-Private Joint Venture Act.

"It's admitted that the SRT is not ready for operating either asset management or logistics management," said Arak, who added that hiring private specialists would help the authority to generate more income.

He said it was likely that Bangkok Mass Transit System and Bangkok Metro, operators of Bangkok's Skytrain and subway, respectively, would take charge of the SRT's rail routes.

Arak said the SRT had shouldered an accumulated debt of Bt46.19 billion, because of strategic, operational and financial problems.

About Bt13.41 billion of debt was derived from investment in infrastructure projects. A further Bt31.67 billion was incurred from pension payments to employees.

Arak suggested the government have a clear role in helping the SRT mitigate burdens by investing in infrastructure development for the authority.

For infrastructure maintenance and operations costing about Bt2 billion a year, the government should also help, he said.

Under the rehabilitation plan, the SRT expects to increase its revenue from asset rentals to Bt2 billion a year from the current Bt800 million.

Arak said Bt35.45 billion of debts would be transferred to the Finance Ministry, while rights for land rentals would be transferred to the Treasury Department in exchange for Bt4 billion. "This will help the SRT to reduce its debt burden," he said.

However, as planned, the SRT needs to invest Bt146.3 billion in infrastructure to increase efficiency and realise the potential of its network. "The government will also have to help invest in the project," Arak said.

Watcharapong Thongrung

The Nation

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2007/05/17/business/business_30034393.php

GWR

21-05-07, 11:32 PM

Self back-slapping stuff. Actually the main items of interest in this report are small snippets about SRT's track-doubling budget to Laem Chabang, in the middle and at the end of the article:

Transport schemes on track, says ministry

The Transport Ministry yesterday put forward the progress of electric rail routes as its most satisfying achievement in the last seven months.

Speaking at a press conference, Transport Minister Theera Haocharoen said he expected all the ministry's plans to be concrete within the next five months.

The ministry has worked systematically and created a standard of good governance with more transparency than that of the previous government, he said.

Theera said there had been delays because of legal issues. "From now until the next election, the working process should be driven more smoothly than before," said Theera.

Planned projects include the double-track Chachoengsao-Sriracha-Laem Chabang rail route and problem resolution at Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Deputy Transport Minister Sansern Wongcha-um said progress had been made with Bangkok's diesel-train project, which is part of the five mass-transit rail routes approved by the Cabinet previously. The five routes, covering 137 kilometres and requiring investment of Bt165.4 billion, are the Red Line, Blue Line, Purple Line and the Green Line's two routes.

He said the ministry had changed the project's construction method and introduced a detailed design.

Sansern said the detailed design would allow the government to invest in infrastructure and the private sector to invest in route operation, whereas the previous method required the government to invest in both.

"The new method, along with transparency in working, will help the next government to continue the rail projects easily," he said.

The Chachoengsao-Laem Chabang project's budget of Bt5.85 billion will be considered by the Cabinet today.

Watcharapong Thongrung

The Nation

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2007/05/22/business/business_30034797.php

Maptaphut

24-05-07, 04:27 PM

It seems like the politicans brains have seen the light together!
Track-doubling out to Sri Racha should be finished 2010. After that time it is possible to link the eastern seaboard with a ICtrain-network!:D

GWR

29-05-07, 12:57 AM

LOGISTICS PLAN
SRT seeks more cash for project

Appeal over double-track rail route

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has urged the Transport Ministry to consider its proposed additional budget of Bt7.65 billion for this year to invest in the Sriracha-Kaeng Koi double-track rail route project.

The project, being part of the country's logistics strategy development plan, will help complete the rail system for transporting products and goods more efficiently, SRT chief finance officer Arak Ratbariharn said.

Earlier, the Cabinet had approved the double-track rail route from Chachoengsao to Laem Chabang with a budget of Bt5.8 billion.

Arak said having the double-track rail route to Kaeng Koi in Sara Buri would be the connecting point for goods and products being transported from the North and the Northeast.

Moreover, the lines would be constructed at the Kaeng Koi station to make it more convenient for merchandisers to transport goods. This will help boost transport.

"The ministry has emphasised on development and improvement of transport modes by marine and rail systems to facilitate quick and convenient movement of commodities as rice, sugar, tapioca, rubber, and steel at low costs," a source at the Transport Ministry said.

For the fiscal 2007, the projects allocated are the facility development project at the multi-purpose pier with an investment of Bt159 billion, the Bt1.2-billion Chachoengsao-Sriracha, Laem Chabang double-track rail route project, the Bt897-million road link to the Suvarnbhumi Airport and the elevated South road project.

The second Chiang Saen Port project needs an investment of Bt11 million.

The procurement of diesel locomotives for seven trains would require investment of Bt122 million while Bt825 million is allotted for augmenting rail tracks.

Watcharapong Thongrung
The Nation

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2007/05/29/business/business_30035455.php

Wisarut

29-05-07, 09:22 AM

I've already known that SRT needs double track on Chachongsao - Sri racha -Laem Chabang as well as Chachong Sao - Klong 19 - Kaeng Khoi since Year AD 2000 ....

However, SRT has to secure the budget of 5.85 billion Baht for Chachongsao - Sri racha -Laem Chabang double track and another 7.65 billion Baht for Chachong Sao - Klong 19 - Kaeng Khoi double track along with 3 km Chord lines at Chachoengsao, Kaeng Khoi and Ban Phachi to eliminate the need of shunting at Chachoengsao, Kaeng Khoi and Ban Phachi

GWR

20-09-07, 10:00 PM

Train derails in eastern province

(BangkokPost.com) - More than 60 train services to the eastern region have been suspended on Thursday after a train derailed in Chachoengsao province on Thursday morning.

The cargo train that carried sugar went off track about 500 metres from Chachoengsao station. Of 18 carriages, four blocked all the eastern bound services, both heading to Sa Kaeo and Chon Buri provinces.

The cause of the derailment is still under investigation.

It is expected that authorities will take the whole day to clear the scene and fix the rail. Service are expected to resume on Thursday night.

May expire soon:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/breakingnews.php?id=121868

Wisarut

21-09-07, 09:23 AM

May expire soon:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/breakingnews.php?id=121868

More details on the sugar train 2020 (Tha Phra - Laem Chabang) derailed at Don Si Non on 20 Sept 2007 can be seen here:

http://portal.rotfaithai.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=1750

Note: Tha Phra is a container yard station for Khon Kaen ... this container yard generally carried sugar and tapioca statch contianers headign to Laem Chabang.

Wisarut

21-09-07, 03:42 PM

Opening Eastern Railway Line after Removign the Derailed Sugar Train
Nation Channel - 21 Sept 2007 - 2:58 PM

Now, Station master of Chachongsao Junction reported that SRT workers have removed the derailed sugar train 2020 (Tha Phra - Laem Chabang) out of the Northern switch of Chachongsao Junction and repaired the track ... but the heavy rain had delayed the openign of the Eastern route.

The cargo train to Laem Chabang could go to Laem Chabang at 4:58 AM of 21 Sept 2007 while the the route to Aranyaprathet could be opened at 10:20 AM to allow Aranyaprathet Train 275 and Kabinburi train 278 going ...

// -----------------------------------------------------------------
This accident will justify for the speedign up the double tracking of both Kaeng Khoi - Klong 19 - chachongsao and Chachongsao - Laem Chabang ...
along with the chord lines.

Maptaphut

23-05-08, 03:21 AM

The rails out to Sri Racha seems to be fully refurbished, - the track is now as perfect as it could be! The track on this line must be the best qualitytrack in Thailand at this time! Work on the doubletrack-project, which should start juli last year, can not be seen.
We frequently use the overnighttrains 67/68 Bangkok - Ubon; the trackquality on part of the line Kaeng Koi - Nakhon Ratchasima is near like a nightmare without possibility to sleep. Somebody know about plans for renew rails on this line?

Wisarut

23-05-08, 09:43 AM

Wisarut

16-06-08, 12:03 PM

Now, the contractor is starting to clear the bush along the track from Chachognsao to Sri Racha ... esp at Khao Phrabat .... as they have stocked 100 lb yard rails for main line and 80 lb for passign loop.

// ------------------------------------------------------

The latest updating by Khun Nirakan (a student of Kasetsart U. - Sri Racha Campus)

13 June 2008:

1) No progress from Chachognsao Junction - bang pakogn bridge

2) The derrick boat is pushing the new support pillar for the parallel Bang pakong Bridge at Don Si None side and prepare the land for the new bridge while no progress on Paed Riw side.

3) From Don sinone side of Bang Pakogn Bridge to Bridge across Highway 304, the new pillar have been in place while no support pillars from Bridge across Highway 304 to Don Sri None Station.

4) Phanat Nikhom Bridge (Bridge across Chachongsao - Phanat Nikhom highway) is not started yet.

5) From Don Srinone - Phanthong, the ground improvemnet is in progress ... already have a few suipport pillars.

6) From Pha Thong station to Motorway (Chonburi Exit), no progres has been done

7) From Motorway (Chonburi Exit) to Chonburi station, already have some blanketing and some support pillars.

8) From Chonburi to Telegraph Pole 111/3 (km 111 + 125), realy have land banketing while the section from

Telegraph Pole 111/3 (km 111 + 125) to Telegraph Pole 111/10 (km 111 + 562), bottle neck due to stone milling factory that invade railway land.

Telegraph Pole 111/10 (km 111 + 562) to bang Phra, realdy done the blanketing.

However, no progress beyond Bang Phra station.

The new rail will be one the right hand (Up to Chonburi) and the new will will be on the left hand after Chonburi.

http://portal.rotfaithai.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=2750