View Full Version : UglyDucklingMegaProjects(&China)
It seems to me that POLITICS is the right place to discuss the main thrust of the Samak administration's main thrust on megaprojects, with links to more specific elements of these projects elsewhere on the forum:
Samak: Mass transit system priority for new govt
BANGKOK, Feb 3 (TNA) – Incoming prime minister Samak Sundaravej said on Sunday the most urgent tasks his government would undertake were to improve the mass transit rail system in Bangkok and upcountry and to build a huge reservoir for poverty-stricken Northeasterners.
Speaking to journalists at his residence, the People Power Party (PPP) leader said a dual railway track system was to be constructed nationwide. Likewise, Bangkok’s Sky Train service would be expanded in three more directions, each route spanning about 30 kilometers.
Plans on building the dual railway track system were suspended for almost two years after earlier being approved by the government of ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
The PPP, headed by Mr. Samak, is a close ally of the now defunct Thai Rak Thai Party of Mr. Thaksin.
Another ambitious project, said Mr. Samak, was to construct a reservoir to store water from the Mekong River. Once completed, the reservoir would alleviate water shortage problems faced by all 19 Northeast provinces. But he did not say where the exact location for the reservoir would be.
Touching on the ongoing violence in the deep South, Mr. Samak said he would assign concerned officials to handle the problem.
When asked whether he would continue to employ conciliatory measures in solving the crux, as was the case with the outgoing administration of Gen. Surayud Chulanont, Mr. Samak in typical style replied with a question of his own as to whether the measure had succeeded in solving the violence.
However, Mr. Samak said he would first discuss ways to solve the violence in the region with senior military officers before traveling there himself. (TNA) – E111
http://enews.mcot.net/view.php?id=2639
Wisarut
04-02-08, 09:41 AM
well, 500 Billion Baht for BKK Mass Transit and 300 Billion Baht for Massive Double Tracking .... If they are goign to do how can they finance this project ...
Yappofloyd
04-02-08, 10:10 AM
Likewise, Bangkok’s Sky Train service would be expanded in three more directions, each route spanning about 30 kilometers.
This is a new one it seems, some hairbrained scheme of the new PM? No mention of Red, Blue or Purple lines but perhaps that is what the reporter is calling BTS?
Ok, the previous BTS ext. plan to go to Mahachai could be one of the lines but Samut Prahkan is less than 30kms and unless the Mo Chit - Lam Lukka ext is going to go all the way to Rangsit all of a sudden cannot think what these 3 lines are about.
The start of more confusion:confused:
The Enforcer!
04-02-08, 01:18 PM
Likewise, Bangkok’s Sky Train service would be expanded in three more directions, each route spanning about 30 kilometers.
Perhaps Samak will turn the Mahachai line into BTS!
The news, whilst confusing, is at least positive.
The Enforcer!
This is a new one it seems, some hairbrained scheme of the new PM? No mention of Red, Blue or Purple lines but perhaps that is what the reporter is calling BTS?
Ok, the previous BTS ext. plan to go to Mahachai could be one of the lines but Samut Prahkan is less than 30kms and unless the Mo Chit - Lam Lukka ext is going to go all the way to Rangsit all of a sudden cannot think what these 3 lines are about.
The start of more confusion:confused:
04 Febuary 2008
BMA ready to help government in driving Mass Transit System forward
The Bangkok Governor, Mr. Apirak Kosayodhin (อภิรักษ์ โกษะโยธิน), says he is ready to cooperate with the new government in pushing forward the Mass Transit System project, as the general public would benefit from the system.
Mr. Apirak talks about Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej (สมัคร สุนทรเวช)'s initiative to propel the Mass Transit System project, especially the BTS extension plan. He says the project would greatly help the commuters, as the current economy is sluggish and the oil prices are high. He says the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is prepared to provide suggestions and ideas concerning the Mass Transit System's construction plans, timelines and procurements to the new administration.
Mr. Apirak adds that the construction of the BTS extension line connecting Silom and Taksin Bridge will be finished by this year. He says the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project will also be completed within the middle of this year.
Reporter : RTI-Reporter03
http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/previewnews.php?news_id=255102040033
04 Febuary 2008
Real estate to rebound due to mega-projects
Real estate businessmen express confidence that the real estate sector will rebound after signals from the new government that it will stimulate investments in mega-projects.
Businessman in the real estate sector Wichian Phaetthayanan (วิเชียร แพทยานัน) says the sector is expected to continuously expand by 2-5.8% due to the new government’s plan to push for mega-projects this year. However, he says the sector’s growth still depends on the country’s GDP.
Mr Wichian adds that positive factors in the sector this year include higher inflation rate which will prompt consumers to invest more in real estate as well as political stability.
http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/previewnews.php?news_id=255102040022
The Enforcer!
04-02-08, 10:08 PM
Mr. Apirak .... says the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project will also be completed within the middle of this year.
And like Alice I like to believe six impossible things before breakfast.
The Enforcer!
Wisarut
05-02-08, 08:28 AM
Perhaps Samak will turn the Mahachai line into BTS!
The news, whilst confusing, is at least positive.
The Enforcer!
Naah, SRT men would NEVER allow anybody else to meddle on SRT land unless they get annual concession payment alo9gn with revenue sharing.
The Enforcer!
05-02-08, 09:16 AM
Naah, SRT men would NEVER allow anybody else to meddle on SRT land unless they get annual concession payment alo9gn with revenue sharing.
I thought the SRT was owned by the people (well at least the Finance ministry) thus the people's representatives (i.e. the government) should be allocated to use its assets to maximise service levels.
The UK had the right idea - it broke up British Railways into a infrastructure owning company then sold off operation of the trains to the private sector. No more Union power!
The Enforcer!
Wisarut
05-02-08, 10:27 AM
I thought the SRT was owned by the people (well at least the Finance ministry) thus the people's representatives (i.e. the government) should be allocated to use its assets to maximise service levels.
The UK had the right idea - it broke up British Railways into a infrastructure owning company then sold off operation of the trains to the private sector. No more Union power!
The Enforcer!
SRT men have shown their HATRED toward thsoe from Ministry of Finance who have use their debts as the blackmails by Threatening NOT to collateral more loan for cash flow as well as not to financing the debts and pension funds unless SRT men surrender the shares to Ministry of Finanace.
Furthermore, the SRT Union have pointed out hte Failture of Privatization of British Rails as the way GOING AGAINST any attempt for privatization.
However, STRONG public DISAPPROVAL of SRT General strike on 1 Nov 2007 has compelled the Union to come up with concession for Privatizations of SRT ....
05 Febuary 2008
Ministry of Transport ready to propose 9 rail lines and Suvarnabhumi Airport management plan to new Government
Transport Ministry Chief Chaisawas Kittipaiboon (ชัยสวัสดิ์ กิตติพรไพบูลย์) revealed that the ministry has instructed various offices to prepare reports of their projects to be presented to the new government. The project that has been given first priority by the ministry is the construction of 9 additional electric train lines which has been entrusted to the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy Planning. The ministry will also push to present new passenger terminal management schemes for Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA) Governor Praphas Jongsanguan (ประภัสร์ จงสงวน) stated the MRTA will present rail line extension plans to the new Transport Minister once appointed. The 9 new lines will include extensions between Bangkapi and the Thailand Cultural Center, Srinakarin road and Ladprao and Bangkapi to Minburi.
Reporter : RTI-Reporter01
http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/previewnews.php?news_id=255102050003
Wisarut
05-02-08, 11:39 AM
The details of 9 Line can be seen as follows:
REF: Thai Post - 5 feb 2008
1. Bang Yai - Sai Noy - 35 km (Branching out of Purple line at Bang Yai)
2. Samrong - Ancient city - 17 km (just Paknam extension of Green line after taking over BTS through debt purchasing)
3. Mochit - saphan mai - Lam Lookka - Future Park 36.6 km (Mochit extension with the branch line to Lam Lookka and Future Park.
4. Taksin - mahachai 20 km -> He is goign to do this after taking over both SRT and BTS.
5. Bangsue - Klogn Toei 9 km -> actually completing the Southern section of Blue Ring
6. Minburi - Salaya 51 km (the extended Pink Line beyond Khae Rai ... all the way to Salaya)
7. Taksin - Phutthamonthon Sai 4 -> 21.7 km -> green line along with the new route to AVOID goign to Rattanakosin Island.
8. Wat Yai - Fort Chulachomklao -> the branch of purple line ... will DO this ONLY when the purple line is goign from Bansue to Pra padaeng
9. Bangkapi Loop -> the gold line to PLEASE Ai Samak since it pass his village.
:D:p:cool::eek:
The Enforcer!
05-02-08, 12:44 PM
Failture of Privatization of British Rails
I do not see it as a failure - I endured years of constant strikes and work to rules as these Unions kept demanding more wages for less and less service provision. In the end I had tomove from Surrey to Central London to keep my job.
Now the National Rail network is expanding as is the new London Overground and there is increased service levels throughout.
The Enforcer!
The Enforcer!
05-02-08, 12:48 PM
The details of 9 Line can be seen as follows
Do these plans mean abandoning the Purple, Blue and Red lines as proposed last year?
The Enforcer!
Wisarut
05-02-08, 01:06 PM
Do these plans mean abandoning the Purple, Blue and Red lines as proposed last year?
The Enforcer!
Probably not ... without these 3 lines, most of the other 9 will not be born at all.
The Enforcer!
05-02-08, 02:12 PM
6. Minburi - Salaya 51 km (the extended Pink Line beyond Khae Rai ... all the way to Salaya)
Do you mean the Pink Line from Minburi to Pak Kret then extended via Khae Rae to Sala Ya?
9. Bangkapi Loop -> the gold line to PLEASE Ai Samak since it pass his village Where did this Gold Line come from?
The Enforcer!
Wisarut
05-02-08, 03:20 PM
Do you mean the Pink Line from Minburi to Pak Kret then extended via Khae Rae to Sala Ya?
Where did this Gold Line come from?
The Enforcer!
Yes, Pink Line is goign along Chaeng Watthana Road all the way to to Pakkret and then turn left alogn Tiwanon road all the way to Khae rai Intersection ... the rest would be a guess game to see how can the line will go from Kae Rai to Salaya ... the possibility is to follow Rattanathbet road and then rajpruek road .... all the way to Boromraj Chonnanee road and then right to Salaya.
For the gold line, it is the proposed BMA RIng line of 82 km which pass AI Sama's house.
Mega-project funding to be revised
Published on February 6, 2008
The Public Debt Management Office and concerned parties will meet tomorrow and revise a funding plan after Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej said he planned to push for nine-route mega-projects requiring an investment of Bt500 billion.
Pongpanu Svetarundra, director-general of the Public Debt Management Office, said yesterday that it was still unclear how the Samak government would revise the mega-projects planned by the Surayud government.
According to the earlier plan of the Surayud administration, Thailand would invest Bt250 billion in five-route mega-projects. However, Samak said over the weekend that his government wanted to pursue nine-route mega-projects costing around Bt500 billion.
Pongpanu said the Public Debt Management Office would meet the National Economic and Social Develop-ment Board, Budget Bureau and the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning in order to draft a funding plan to support the new government's mega-project plan.
According to the earlier plan for the five-route mega-projects, funding sources included borrowing Bt75 billion, or 30 per cent of the cost, from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation, raising Bt125 billion, or 50 per cent, from the domestic market, with the balance of Bt50 billion coming from the Energy Conservation Fund and profits of some state enterprises.
Pongpanu had on Monday suggested Thailand could issue 30-year bonds to finance the mega-projects as the country's public debt was still low at 38 per cent of GDP, far below the ceiling of 50 per cent.
This gives room for the government to borrow about Bt800 billion to Bt900 billion. He believes the 30-year bonds would get a good response from the market as an alternative investment tool for institutional investors.
Pongpanu yesterday said a 30-year bond issue would be possible amid high demand in the domestic market, while life insurance firms get more than Bt200 billion of long-term funds every year but invested only for five to seven years.
"This is a good opportunity to issue bonds to raise long-term funds to help build up a long-term bond benchmark in Thailand. Our public debt is currently low at 37-38 per cent. The success of the 30-year bond issue will depend on the price as the market has never had such a product," Pongpanu said.
However, the Thai Bond Market Association said yesterday that the 30-year bonds may not be fully subscribed because the capital-control measure prevents foreign investors from buying the bonds.
Association president Nattapol Chavalitcheevin said the Bt500-billion 30-year bonds would not be fully subscribed at once. So far, the government has raised only Bt40 billion to Bt50 billion for mega-projects. The longest maturity period of bonds currently available is only 20 years.
"This is the constraint caused by the capital control as foreign investors would not be able to invest in the bonds," Nattapol said.
"Funds from local institutional investors will raise only about Bt100 billion to Bt200 billion. The remaining bonds might need to reduce the maturity period."
He said the 20-year bond yield was currently around 4.82 per cent. Compared to previous data, the 30-year bond yield might be around 5.12-5.32 per cent.
The Nation
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/02/06/business/business_30064537.php
The Enforcer!
06-02-08, 09:30 AM
According to the earlier plan of the Surayud administration, Thailand would invest Bt250 billion in five-route mega-projects. However, Samak said over the weekend that his government wanted to pursue nine-route mega-projects costing around Bt500 billion
In ordinary mathematics Bt250 billion + Bt500 billion = Bt750 billion
Maybe cooks cannot add up?
The Enforcer!
Yappofloyd
06-02-08, 04:08 PM
Transport plan too ambitious, claim experts Published on Feb 5, 2008 Watcharapong Thongrung The Nation
The Samak government's plan to expand mass-transit routes is too ambitious due to budget constraints and time-consuming construction, said traffic experts. Office of Transport Policy and Planning director Maitree Srinarawat said yesterday that this government was unlikely to be able to finance all nine routes at the same time. "But it's possible that the government will begin construction on a gradual basis," he added.
His remarks came after the announcement of Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej on Sunday that he was giving top priority to mega-project development, including mass transport. One is the completion of urban train routes in three years.
The government of ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra had planned to create an additional 10 train routes at a cost of Bt550 billion before scaling them down to three. The last government changed the plan again to five routes worth Bt165 billion.
A Transport Ministry source believes the new government will not give sole top priority to investment in mega-projects but will also be concerned about developing other sectors such as agriculture and education. He also questioned whether Samark's remarks were to boost the government's popularity.
Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand governor Prapat Chongsanguan said he was concerned about the stalled land expropriation for the construction of the Purple Line.The previous government approved the route's construction and reduced the compensation amount for expropriation from Bt9.3 billion to Bt9.2 billion, which prompted opposition from residents.
The details of 9 Line can be seen as follows:
REF: Thai Post - 5 feb 2008
1. Bang Yai - Sai Noy - 35 km (Branching out of Purple line at Bang Yai)
2. Samrong - Ancient city - 17 km (just Paknam extension of Green line after taking over BTS through debt purchasing)
3. Mochit - saphan mai - Lam Lookka - Future Park 36.6 km (Mochit extension with the branch line to Lam Lookka and Future Park.
4. Taksin - mahachai 20 km -> He is goign to do this after taking over both SRT and BTS.
5. Bangsue - Klogn Toei 9 km -> actually completing the Southern section of Blue Ring
6. Minburi - Salaya 51 km (the extended Pink Line beyond Khae Rai ... all the way to Salaya)
7. Taksin - Phutthamonthon Sai 4 -> 21.7 km -> green line along with the new route to AVOID goign to Rattanakosin Island.
8. Wat Yai - Fort Chulachomklao -> the branch of purple line ... will DO this ONLY when the purple line is goign from Bansue to Pra padaeng
9. Bangkapi Loop -> the gold line to PLEASE Ai Samak since it pass his village.
:D:p:cool::eek:
So what have we here but a lot of hot air in order to boost BKK electoral appeal?
1) A new ext of the Purple Line when nothing is yet tendered and funds for land purchse still not provided,
2) Already planned but good to see some support,
3) Work is meant to start mid year but what is this new Lam Lukka to Future Park? Could we at least get the thing tendered before talking about exts!:mad:
4) Seems to be the original BTS plan from early 2000s for the Taksin line ext to extend it to Mahachai. Build the Phectkasem ext first pls.
5) Nothing new but Blue Line moving slow,
6) The Pink Line is important only after a basic network is in place,
7) I don't really understand this one. Bkk needs a line through Rattanakorn and cross river,
8) Need to check where this is suggested to go,
9) No comment
Talk about confusion and hot air! What can only appear to be apparent brainstorming by the new PM after having drinks with a few mates. One would think that the PM would have been better off focusing on progressing the currently approved lines - BTS exts 1) Mo Chit and 2) Phetkasem; Purple Line (especially resolving the funds for land purchases) and Blue Line; and whatever is going on with the SRT Red Lines.
Can we just get a few lines tendered that have already been approved and subject to delay after delay built pls! :mad:Get these moving before making new lines up out of thin air!
Wisarut
06-02-08, 04:15 PM
So what have we here but a lot of hot air in order to boost BKK electoral appeal?
1) A new ext of the Purple Line when nothing is yet tendered and funds for land purchse still not provided,
2) Already planned but good to see some support,
3) Work is meant to start mid year but what is this new Lam Lukka to Future Park? Could we at least get the thing tendered before talking about exts!:mad:
4) Seems to be the original BTS plan from early 2000s for the Taksin line ext to extend it to Mahachai. Build the Phectkasem ext first pls.
5) Nothing new but Blue Line moving slow,
6) The Pink Line is important only after a basic network is in place,
7) I don't really understand this one. Bkk needs a line through Rattanakorn and cross river,
8) Need to check where this is suggested to go,
9) No comment
Talk about confusion and hot air! What can only appear to be apparent brainstorming by the new PM after having drinks with a few mates. One would think that the PM would have been better off focusing on progressing the currently approved lines - BTS exts 1) Mo Chit and 2) Phetkasem; Purple Line (especially resolving the funds for land purchases) and Blue Line; and whatever is going on with the SRT Red Lines.
Can we just get a few lines tendered that have already been approved and subject to delay after delay built pls! :mad:Get these moving before making new lines up out of thin air!
It is not a surprise at all for the Weak man like Ai Samak as well as otehr politicians to come up with the New Projects despite of the fact that the old projects either NOT started yet or not finished yet.
That's the same way thsoe Somdej wh orun Khmer Empire ruing their own empire by keep builign the new stone castles while FAILING to finish the old castles.
Truely strongman would finish the project of the previous regime before comign up with the New projects.
Otherwise, they need to have a GOOD reason to explain why did they cancel the projects of previous regimes.
06 Febuary 2008
Transport Ministry ready to tackle 9 new rail lines
Transport Ministry Chief Chaisawas Kittipornpaiboon (ชัยสวัสดิ์ กิตติพรไพบูลย์) spoke concerning the 9 new rail line project of Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej that the Office of Traffic and Transport Policy has already created an initial study for the project. Mr. Chaisawas says that if a budget is approved for the project, than the Transport Ministry will be able to begin work immediately. The ministry had already begun preparations for the construction of 5 rail lines, but is confident it can add the other 4 lines in as well.
The ministry admits that during the administration of General Surayud Chulanont it had already made strides in the preparation of 3 rail lines, which it will use as a foundation for the entire 9. The ministry states that now it is awaiting the placement of a minister to approve decisions already made and also to consider such matters as the types of trains to be used and budget sources.
Mr. Chaisawas also revealed that the ministry is looking to increase its rail width from 1 meter to the international standard of 1.435 meters, which will allow trains to run faster.
Reporter : RTI-Reporter01
http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/previewnews.php?news_id=255102060012
Wisarut
07-02-08, 02:06 PM
Ai Samak version - 9 lines 311 km 500 billion Baht
http://www.matichon.co.th/news-photo/prachachat/2008/02/edi01070251p3.jpg
Surayut version - 5 lines 137 km 165 billion Baht
http://www.matichon.co.th/news-photo/prachachat/2008/02/edi01070251p2.jpg
The Analyses on changes:
REF: Prechachat Thurakij - 7-9 Feb 2008
There are 2 rings -
1) Bangsue - Klong Toei (29 km) - cutting section from Tha Phra to Bang Khae as well as the undergroudn section from Hua Lamphong to Tha Phra out and keep the ring goign from Bangsue to Klong Toei via Rama 3 road instead ...
Tha Phra - Bang Khae section has been transferred to BTS instead ...
These measure on Blue Ring is quite a popular choice due to the continuing demands from local people from Phetkasem Road to ride Skytrain and ensure that those who live alogn rama 3 route get somethign better than BRT.
Furthermore, the section from Tha Phra to Klogn Toei also in the 2nd phase of Blue ring ....
2) Bang Kapi Ring - 95 km ... a modified version of BMA Ring line ... going along Rattanathibet Road, Ngam Wongwan road, Kaset - Nawamin road and then turn right to Nawamin road to ang Kapi before goign along Sri Nakarin road all the way to Samrong and Samut Prakarn .. After that the line turn right to go alogn Southern Kanchanapisek Expressway to Suksawat and then the long goes alogn Suksawat road. After that, the ring goes alogn Rajpruek road all the way to Rama 5 Bridge and then the line goign alogn Nonthaburi Bypass to Tiwanon Intersection ... after that the line will end at Rattnathibet road.
This gold ring line will DEFINITELY please those who live near Samak's house on Nawamin road as well as as Pleasing PPP men/women in Bangkapi and Sri Nakharin. Furthermore thsoe who live in Kaset - phongphet Area would say YES for Gold Ring.
3) Branch line from Gold Ring - 6 km (Wat Yai - Fort Chulachomklao) ... This will please thsoe who live in Phra Padaeng area as well as thsoe Sailors and Navy men at Fort Chulachomklao [New Naval Dockyard].
4) Bangyai - Sai Noy - Dao Khanong -> 35 km -> hte Modified version of Purple Line ... Chopping the section from Bangyai to Klong Phai depot (3 km) out and then follow the second phase of Purple line from Bangsue all the way to Dao Khanong.
So logn it follows the original plan for purple line, it would be just fine.
5) Samrong - Muang Boran 17 km -> Paknam extension with the extra 3 km from Samut Prakarn to Muang Boran ... This would give a big cheer from Paknam people without double ... even though the Assawahem clan and theri men have to swallow their own blood since the line will CUT DOWN the main line of theri tin canned buses.
6) Mochit - Saphanmai - Lam Lookka - Future Park - 36.6 km. This hte way to kick start both first and second phae of Phaholyothin extension. This is the way to secure both the support from Airforce men/women, the real estate developers in Lum loookka area as well as popular demands for the route to future Park Rangsit.
7) Taksin - Mahachai (20 km) the line goes from Talad Ploo station all the way to Mahachai ... may need to rip the meater gauge line out and replace with double standard guage line .... while forgetting abotu the section from Rangsit to Hua Lamphong and Hua Lamphong to Talad Ploo.
8) Minburi - Salaya (51 km) .... The line is the merge of Orange line (Bangkapi - Bang Bumru) and brown line (Bangkapi 0-Minburi). The additional section bang bumru to Salaya alogn Soytehr main line.
This is quite okay project... except the section from Bang Bumru station to Salaya which expect to run into conflict with SRT since this section goes alogn SRT land. Furthermore, it will cut the red line commuter line (Bang Bumru - Talingchan - Ban Chimplee section) ... OUTRAGING SRT Board as wel as SRT Union!
9) Taksin - Phutthamonthon Sai 4 -> 21.7 km -> the line the the third phase to Taksin extension by grabbing the Blue line from Tha Phra to Lak Song (about 10 km) ...The line will go along Krung Thonburi road and Rajpruek road all the way to bang Wah and then goign alogn Phetkasem road all the way to Phutthamonthon Sai 4 (BKK Border).
Parinand
07-02-08, 06:27 PM
Having seen the failure of British rail privatization, I am against the total privatization of SRT. I prefer the French way of running the railway.
However, I support the reform of the national railway by allowing private companies to jointly provide rail service to increase efficiency and choices.
Experiencing some competition is good for the SRT in the long run.
Wisarut
08-02-08, 09:26 AM
wow! is it just me or is that a better overall plan? But what about the "Hopeless" project - the red line is now dead (again)?!?...but also still no BTS extension from Siam to Rattanakosin?
For the case of that Hopeless, It may have to be DELAYED until thsoe cronies have purchased the land along the Northern railway all the way to Autthya ... and when they want to secure the votes from thsoe who live in Bangsue area all the way to Ayutthaya.
Those PPP men have learnt very hard way that going AGAINST BTS Skytrain mean goign AGAINST most of Bangkokians ... ruining their prospects for both local election and National elections.
FOrthermore the extensions routes to Future Park, Bang Khae, and Muang Boran are on popular demands of Bangkokians ... even though the route to lam Lookka is to please Samak's men whose land plots are in Lum Loookka area.
For the case ot the route from Minburi ot Salaya, the section from Minburi to Samsen are the same old Orange route in 1995 plan ... so There will be NO problem on this ... This is to secure the votes from Minburi to Ramkhakmhaeng area ... Furthermore, the underground section of this line also pass Chitladda palace .... to prove their loyalty to His Majesty ... and to please voters in Dusit area (his old constituency).
Gold ring is to please Samak for sure sicne he live in Bang Kapi area.
the Purple line that goes from Bangsue to Dao Khanong may please the one at Sukhothai Palace ... so he can make direct acccess to Rattnakosin Island ... the the price of DEPRIVING the Blue Ring and Green line from direct access into Rattnakosin Island.
doseiai
08-02-08, 09:33 AM
On the surface, Samak's plan seems to be better by having more lines, but they don't seem to cross. Transfer stations are crucial part of the network. Cutting out tunneling (and transfer stations) in high density areas may be a trick to get the whole project done for cheaper, but shortcuts make the system less seamless and therefore not as many will use it.
Also, I think people should be careful when building a subway down to Samut Prakan. If projections for global warming are correct, the subway terminus may be under water this century. Tho subways can be built underwater, they have to go to somewhere above ground. Planning lines for the future should account how long they can be used (return on investment).
Wisarut
08-02-08, 10:02 AM
On the surface, Samak's plan seems to be better by having more lines, but they don't seem to cross. Transfer stations are crucial part of the network. Cutting out tunneling (and transfer stations) in high density areas may be a trick to get the whole project done for cheaper, but shortcuts make the system less seamless and therefore not as many will use it.
Also, I think people should be careful when building a subway down to Samut Prakan. If projections for global warming are correct, the subway terminus may be under water this century. Tho subways can be built underwater, they have to go to somewhere above ground. Planning lines for the future should account how long they can be used (return on investment).
For the case of Paknam, it is elevasted track - about 12 meter height above the ground ...
The Enforcer!
08-02-08, 01:56 PM
After that the line turn right to go alogn Southern Kanchanapisek Expressway to Suksawat and then the long goes alogn Suksawat road. After that, the ring goes alogn Rajpruek road .......Branch line from Gold Ring - 6 km (Wat Yai - Fort Chulachomklao
If it crosses the river 'on' the Southern Kanchanapisek Expressway then goes north along Suksawat, how does it reach Wat Yai which is 4km south of Saphan Kanchanaphisek?
The Enforcer!
Wisarut
08-02-08, 01:59 PM
If it crosses the river 'on' the Southern Kanchanapisek Expressway then goes north along Suksawat, how does it reach Wat Yai which is 4km south of Saphan Kanchanaphisek?
The Enforcer!
In such a case, I guess, they wil go alogn the proposed The 3rd RIng road instead of Kanchanaphisek RIng so the line will be very closed to Wat Yai ... and this will pleasse thsoe land speculators alogn within PPP and those from Assawahem/Phatthanothai clan for sure.
The Enforcer!
09-02-08, 07:12 AM
and this will pleasse thsoe land speculators alogn within PPP and those from Assawahem/Phatthanothai clan for sure.
So let me get this right - the publication of the 9-Line plan is to let people know where to quickly buy waste land so that in a year or two it will be worth million?
The Enforcer!
Wisarut
10-02-08, 04:59 PM
So let me get this right - the publication of the 9-Line plan is to let people know where to quickly buy waste land so that in a year or two it will be worth million?
The Enforcer!
Definitely .... They are goign to turn thsoe garbage dump into golden plots
EDITORIAL
Mega-projects stalled by politics
Published on February 10, 2008
Samak's plans to expand mass transit will have to overcome the hurdle of back-room politicking
Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej's declaration of his high aims in pushing for mega-projects - which include mass-transit rail systems and drawing water from the Mekong River to irrigate the country's drought-hit northeastern region - may seem like a bright light of hope for members of the private sector looking to invest in those schemes. However, despite great public expectations and the fact that they have full government support, the future of these projects is not totally certain due to the political risk brought about by the volatile nature of a government coalition made up of several political parties.
Samak's proposal of nine rapid-transit routes in particular was not new to the Thai public, and was among the mega-projects highlighted by the government of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The Thaksin government had pushed heavily for many mass-transit projects - once even invited representatives of foreign embassies to attend a briefing at Government House held exclusively to promote the schemes.
The interim administration of Surayud Chulanont set up after the coup, however, took a more cautious stance in regards to these projects and approved only three of them. The three approved routes are the 23-kilometre Bang Sue-Bang Yai connection, the 15-kilometre Bang Sue-Taling Chan connection and a 26-kilometre stretch between Bang Sue and Rangsit. The first Bt31-billion route is officially called the Purple Line, and the second and third routes are part of the Bt59-billion Red Line. Four more routes - Sukhumvit Soi 107-Samut Prakan, Morchit-Sapan Mai, Bang Sue-Tha Phra and Hua Lampong-Bang Khae - are pending Cabinet approval. Additional rail transit lines that are currently the subject of feasibility studies include routes extending to major suburbs such as Khae Rai, Chaeng Wattana, Tiwanon and Suwinthawong.
These mass-transit projects will need huge budget allocations for construction and operation and the source of this money is a big question facing the new government. The Finance Ministry's Public Debt Management Office has proposed issuing long-term bonds to partly cover the costs and many have welcomed the idea as a feasible solution. The point of investment, however, is not the only factor to consider, since the future of the projects will also rest on how actively and willingly the ministry in charge of the schemes will push for their implementation.
The sooner the government gets the mass-transit plans started, the better it will be. Investment poured into these projects will not only help stimulate the economy as a whole, but it will also have a positive psychological effect on investors and the general public. The price of land along mass-transit routes in Bangkok and in the suburbs will significantly increase and will consequently lead to more property development and other related activities.
The factor that will finally determine the future of the mass-transit projects is not money but politics.
Thai politics has a tricky nature in which situations keep changing as politicians in charge of ministries conduct their power plays. Discord and vested interests do exist among political parties and sometimes it is hard for them to avoid conflict when they have to work together.
Since the Transport Ministry is in charge of many mega-projects that involve huge investments and serve the general public's needs, it is understandable why political parties want their own man at its helm.
The formation of the Samak government was no exception and political jockeying over the transport portfolio was evident before the final decision was made. New Transport Minister Santi Prompat was not the definite choice from the very beginning, and there was at least one other candidate, former deputy Bangkok governor Sahas Bunditkul, who was reportedly preferred for the post by Samak himself. Santi, a party-list MP from the People Power Party, however, finally won the post. This is clear evidence of how major decisions in Thai politics are chiefly determined by political rather than practical factors. The same is true for the mass-transit projects that Samak has vowed to push.
Financial risk is not the most serious obstacle for their future; political risk is.
The Nation
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/02/10/opinion/opinion_30064926.php
See also today's previous post
PM insists on dual railway track, extending SkyTrain
BANGKOK, Feb 10 (TNA) – Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej reiterated today his government would extend SkyTrain routes in the Thai capital to the city’s outskirts and invite foreign investors to help construct a dual railway track system in Thailand.
In his first weekly address on state-run television Channel 11, Mr. Samak said plans to build and then extend the SkyTrain service should have been implemented about three decades ago but were delayed due to protests.
The SkyTrain service would be expanded by an additional 30 or so kilometers from the current 23 kilometers of route, to facilitate passengers living in Bangkok’s outskirts, said Mr. Samak.
Mr. Samak said the services would lead in four directions to the outskirts of Bangkok and the number of passenger carriages per train would be increased from three to six. Trains would run at an interval of every two and a half minutes instead of the current five minutes.
He said the expansion project was expected to be completed within three years.
Mr. Samak, whose administration came into power on February 7, explained the dual railway track scheme nationwide would allow for a doubling of passenger services and shorten traveling times because departing trains would not have to wait for the arrival of an incoming train.
Foreign investors would be invited to invest in the dual track system as Thailand would have two more steel smelting plants, added Mr. Samak.
If implemented, the dual track system would use standard European trains running at an average speed of 150 kilometers per hour, with traveling time between Bangkok and the northern capital of Chiang Mai reduced to six hours from the current 12 hours, Mr. Samak added. (TNA) – E111
Business News : Last Update : 14:53:24 10 February 2008 (GMT+7:00)
http://enews.mcot.net/view.php?id=2748
10 Febuary 2008
PM vows to complete extension of Bangkok's elevated rail system within 3 years
Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Mr. Samak Sundaravej (สมัคร สุนทรเวช), promises to accelerate the extension of train routes that had been initiated 30 years ago but have been left suspended eversince. He vows to continue with the construction of the railways to Bangkok's vicinities to facilitate transport for commuters.
Mr. Samak says that one of the main priorities dueing his term as PM, is to provide the public members with the benefits of mass transport. He says more extensions will be linked to other commuting roads reaching the Bangkok vicinities. For instance, skytrains en route from Mor Chit (หมอชิต) station will be extended to Lam Lukka (ลำลูกกา) while other terminal stations will be extended to Bang Yai (บางใหญ่), Om Noi (อ้อมน้อย), and Bang Pu (บางปู). It will be a 30 kilometer extension route from each terminal station.
Prime Minister Samak expects that the project would be done within 3 years. He further states that subway stations will extend another 40 kilometers from each terminal. He said he will further discuss detail with the Ministry of Transport and Finance.
Reporter : RTI-Reporter02
http://thainews.prd.go.th/newsenglish/previewnews.php?news_id=255102100005
Wisarut
11-02-08, 02:25 PM
Surely, they are goign to Please Chinese Interest for this matter ... withotu thinking abotu the dire consequence from doing so ...
Yappofloyd
14-02-08, 03:03 PM
In his first weekly address on state-run television Channel 11, Mr. Samak said plans to build and then extend the SkyTrain service should have been implemented about three decades ago but were delayed due to protests.
Not sure if this is the PMs usual historical revisionism (similar to only one person having died on 6 Oct 76) or just really bad reporting on the issue, which is unfortunately quite common. He must be referring to the initial late 70s Japanese Master Plan. I think Khun Wisarut is the expert on this matter?
Wisarut
14-02-08, 04:33 PM
Not sure if this is the PMs usual historical revisionism (similar to only one person having died on 6 Oct 76) or just really bad reporting on the issue, which is unfortunately quite common. He must be referring to the initial late 70s Japanese Master Plan. I think Khun Wisarut is the expert on this matter?
Ai Samak is refering to the Masterplan by Japanese consultant and Expressway Authority in 1979 (now a copy of this plan is in AIT central Library) ... whcih has incorporated in part of the defunct Lavalin project.
One thing to be sure that this masterplan of alsmot all elevated tracks (with a few km for underground)shown NO LINE goign through Rattanakosin island!
Even though they have claimed abotu archeological sensitivities for the reason of no lines gogin throguh Rattanakosin Island, I still think they are LYING the public since they have either taken a kickback from thsoe onwer of diresel tourist buses (Ai samak included) who want to keep mass transit form RUINIGN their cozy business.
At that time, Expressway Authority belongs to Mahatthai (ministry of Interior) and Ai Samak was runnign Mahatthai from 1976-77 ... an d he may iput a pressure on ETA for thsi matter.
Yappofloyd
18-02-08, 07:27 PM
TRANSPORT / MASS TRANSIT NETWORK Samak's plan on new rail lines hard to fulfil AMORNRAT MAHITTHIROOK Bkk Post 18/02/08
Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej will need about six years to accomplish his plan to develop nine mass transit lines covering about 300 kilometres for greater Bangkok, officials at the Transport Ministry said. Seen as one of the main obstacles were studies on new routes and adjustments of present plans, they said.
The prime minister said in his weekly nationwide radio programme on Nov 3 that he expected the rail network to be up and running within three years. But ministry officials have looked into details and agreed it would take at least six years to complete the network. Building the network is a priority of the People Power party-led government. Although the transport minister is Santi Prompat, PM's Office Minister Sahas Banditkul, who has worked for Mr Samak before, oversees the ministry.
The deposed Thaksin Shinawatra government planned to have 10 new routes, but then the Surayud Chulanont administration decided on only five. They are trying to integrate all the plans. A transport ministry source said integration would require at least one year of feasibility studies and new route designs that may cost up to six billion baht, or 1-1.5% of the total estimated construction cost of 400 billion baht. The studies and designs would include sections that duplicate or differ from old routes, or are totally new.
For example, Mr Samak wants the north-bound Green Line to extend from Saphan Mai to both Lam Luk Ka and Rangsit in Pathum Thani. The Purple Line, which was originally designed to run from Bang Sue to Bang Yai district in Nonthaburi, would be extended under Mr Samak's plan from Bang Yai to Sai Noi district in the same province, and a new curve is all that would be needed in Bang Yai. The proposed changes by Mr Samak would force potential investors to review the feasibility studies of their respective routes.
Besides, the section of the Purple Line from Taopoon to Rat Burana partly duplicates the Mahanak-Suksawat-Phra Chulachomklao Fort Green Line. Mr Samak's Min Buri-Salaya route also partially duplicates the old Orange Line from Bang Kapi to Bang Bamru. Mr Samak has called for radical changes to the old Blue Line. Previously, the Blue Line was to create a small loop from Hua Lamphong to Tha Phra and Bang Sue and branch out to Bang Khae, but Mr Samak asked for the removal of the Bang Khae section, and that the loop be made to run along the Ratchadaphisek ring road instead.
http://i245.photobucket.com/albums/gg75/yappofloyd/180208_new02.gif
This Post graphics map varies a bit from the previous map in the Prechachat Thurakij - 7-9 Feb 2008 post by Khun Wisarut but the POst is not renowed for accuracy and the plans will probably change again.
Yappofloyd
23-02-08, 12:02 PM
"High-speed trains"?!? Not waiting at a passing loop will increase the overall speed of the service .
Transit policy to be finalised WICHIT CHANTANUSORNSIRI Bkk Post 23/02/08
The Finance Ministry will finalise a framework for the government's infrastructure investment over the next one to two months, according to minister Surapong Suebwonglee. The government is expected to invest 500 billion baht in nine extensions of existing urban transit routes and another 300-400 billion for high-speed trains, a dual-track national rail system and upgrades of the suburban rail network.
Even with the heavy spending, public debt could remain comfortably under 50% of gross domestic product because of steady economic growth, said Dr Surapong. ''Assuming that the economy grows steadily at 5% per year, the GDP size is expected to grow to 10 trillion baht over the next 10 years from eight trillion in 2007. This means the ministry would have one trillion baht in room for debt creation,'' he said.
Dr Surapong said businesses would start to benefit from state investment at the end of the year as confidence and consumer spending power were expected to improve. The rise in crude above $100 per barrel had underscored the country's need to upgrade the rail network, he added.
The ministry would also continue to support tax incentives for private investment in energy-saving automobiles and equipment. ''I will discuss with Mr Sahas [Bunditkul, a deputy prime minister] and related agencies like the Transport, Energy and Natural Resources and Environment ministries about economic restructuring with the objective of reducing logistics costs,'' he said.
TRANSPORT MINISTRY
Mega-project funding sought
Published on February 27, 2008
Officials to discuss budget proposals for expanded schemes
The Transport Ministry's top officials will convene today to discuss the expanded menu of mega-infrastructure projects, which will force the ministry to spend heavily for years to come.
"The projects will require a huge increase in budgets. In formulating budget proposals, we can no longer focus solely on available funds. Now the quantity of works will determine how much the ministry will require," permanent secretary Chaisawat Kittipornpaiboon said yesterday.
Following the new government's ambitious plan to build nine urban train routes within three years, the ministry will have to ask for extra annual budgets, he said.
Also yesterday, the Cabinet approved the establishment of five mega-project committees, all chaired by Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej.
Their membership will be drawn from ministers, permanent secretaries and chiefs of relevant agencies, said Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Surapong Suebwonglee.
The transport committee will take care of high-speed and rural trains.
The airport committee will oversee the expansion of Suvarnabhumi Airport and upcountry projects.
The water committee will implement projects for a national irrigation grid.
The education committee will supervise the installation of a computer system to promote curricular and extracurricular schooling.
And the public-health committee will oversee projects that improve the delivery of medical care.
Federation of Thai Industries vice chairman Thanit Sorat said the private sector supported the government's economic plan consisting of seven strategies, 17 policies and seven top priorities.
Even if the government managed to achieve only 60 per cent of the goals, that would be satisfactory, he told a seminar on government policy hosted by the National Social and Economic Advisory Board.
Business should show an improvement in the third quarter after the government starts boosting the economy, he said.
However, he is concerned about whether the government can find funding sources to finance all of these grand projects.
The mega-projects will need Bt700 billion, small and medium loans Bt100 billion and the double-track rail system Bt400 billion, while the Kingdom has only about Bt10 billion in reserves, he said.
The government is already US$65 billion (Bt2.1 trillion) in debt, equal to 48 per cent of gross domestic product, he added.
Rural Roads Department director-general Rapin Charudul said his agency had studied the feasibility of the Bt6-billion West Coast road project, as mentioned by Transport Minister Santi Prompat.
The Thai Riviera Highway will extend for 600 kilometres through four provinces: Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ranong and Chumphon.
"However, it is a huge project. We must clear the environmental assessment first and coordinate with local agencies before starting construction. The department will propose this matter to the ministry for approval before beginning building the first phase, from 2009-10," he said.
Marine Department director-general Prasong Tanmaneewattana said one project that Santi would resurrect was the southern land bridge.
However, a study has found that some harbours were not suitable for deep-sea-port construction, such as in Krabi and Phuket, because they are prime tourist destinations. Turning Satun's Pakbara Port into a deep-sea port would be suitable, and some companies have shown interest in investing in and managing it.
"This project has no problem regarding budget. I'll propose a study of the project to the ministry soon," he said.
The Nation
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/02/27/business/business_30066542.php
The ultimate in skimping as a way to maximise the rack-off? See MCOT News Video:
http://enews.mcot.net/clip.php?nid=6890
Super Cement: New construction material
Styrofoam trash might take over a hundred years to decompose naturally. But it can be reused for construction purposes.
The first step is to carve a sheet of Styrofoam into the desired shape. Some beautiful can be created with the assistance of heat. Several carved and patterned sheets can be interlocked with bamboo sticks. The final step is to impaste them with a mixture of cement and a special liquid.
Made from non-flammable polycylene, the new material is called “Super Cement”. It can be used for construction purposes the same as bricks and plaster, according to the managing director of the company importing the technique from Singapore.
Vichai Pattaya-araya, Managing Director, Green Zone said styrofoam is hard, but Super Cement is even harder. It is widely used in foreign countries. For example, it’s been used for constructing several dams in China and for building roads in the United States and Canada.
Super Cement can also be made into such small products as a flower pot. It is also a material for a wide range of furniture.
Mr. Vichai Pattaya-araya, the managing director of Green Zone Company Limited, said super cement was 15 times lighter than brick and several times cheaper. For instance, a normal fountain’s foundation might cost up to 60,000 Baht. But a foundation base made of super cement cost only 20,000 baht.
While waiting for a patent registration, Mr. Vichai was expanding his product line to include artistic objects and was looking for co-investors in different provinces nationwide. He personally believed the new technique would see a new leaf turned in the construction industry very soon.
Last Update : 2008-02-26, 2008-02-26 (GMT+7:00)
Transport Ministry earmarks Bt157bn for rail system development
http://enews.mcot.net/upfile/1207190991.jpg
[Photo: MCOT]
BANGKOK, April 3 (TNA) – Transport Minister Santi Prompat on Wednesday affirmed the ministry will earmark Bt157 billion of the Fiscal 2009 budget to develop the rail system to ease the country's transport costs.
He made the promise at a meeting of senior officials of state agencies supervised by the Transport Ministry held to explain the strategy for the 2009 budget spending by the ministry.
This year, he said, the ministry will emphasise planning development of the country's expanded rail system to reduce transport costs, including construction of five electric mass transit rail routes and 2,000-kilometres of
dual-track railway.
So far, the ministry had set aside BT259 billion from the 2008-2009 budget of Bt 770 billion for the development of the rail system, he said.
The minister revealed Thailand's transport costs are as high as 16 per cent of the gross domestic product while those of developed countries are only 7 per cent of GDP.
So, it is necessary for Thailand to accelerate developing the transport system by rail rather than by road, he said. (TNA)-E005
Business News : Last Update : 09:41:53 3 April 2008 (GMT+7:00)
http://enews.mcot.net/view.php?id=3601
China jumps on the trains
Beijing – China has pledged to invest US$400 million (about 13.2 billion baht) in infrastructure projects in Thailand, particularly the electric mass-transit rail routes in Bangkok.
Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao, who made the pledge to visiting Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej on Monday, also expressed gratitude to the Thai people for their assistance to victims of the recent strong earthquake in Chendu province.
The two premiers talked for an hour as Mr Samak began his four-day visit to China June 30 and July 3, according to the Thai News Agency reporter accompanying the Samak-led delegation.
Mr Wen affirmed that China greatly appreciated the assistance of Thailand's royal family and the public gave to the earthquake victims in Chendu.
HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, will join the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games on August 8.
It is expected that the value of Sino-Thai trade will surpass $50 billion, or 165 billion baht in 2010.
Beijing will encourage companies with growth potential to provide loans of $400 million to finance the mega-projects envisioned to build the electric trains for metropolitan Bangkok.
China will also boost bilateral relations in the areas of education and culture, and finance the planned construction of a Sino-Thai Cultural Centre.
The Thai premier invited the Chinese business community to invest in Thailand, particularly to play a role in the development of public utilities and support facilities for the Bangkok's underground and elevate electric rail route construction.
He said Thailand was ready to give support if Chinese firms enter into joint ventures with Thai counterparts.
Mr Samak expressed his thanks for Beijing's financial support for development of Thailand's basic infrastructure and invited the Chinese premier to visit Thailand later this year. (TNA)
Link may expire:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/topstories/topstories.php?id=128651
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