28.1 C
Bangkok
Saturday, November 9, 2024

Bangkok Overpasses May Be Dismantled for New Orange Line

The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) is accelerating talks with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to clear several city overpasses, paving the way for the Orange Line’s construction. The western stretch of this Bang Khun Non-Min Buri rail line is projected to open by 2030, providing a significant expansion to Bangkok’s transit network.

Vithaya Punmongkol, the acting MRTA governor, confirmed that a Notice to Proceed (NTP) was issued to Bangkok Expressway and Metro (BEM), the concessionaire for the Orange Line, on July 31. BEM is already working on installing mechanical and electrical systems on the eastern section, from Thailand Cultural Centre to Min Buri, with operations expected by late 2027 or early 2028 following a three-year construction phase.

For the Orange Line’s western section, contractors have begun preparing work sites, focusing on infrastructure and utility relocation, which is expected to take four to nine months. Land expropriation under the Royal Decree on Land Expropriation is set for 2025, with a budget of 14 billion baht designated for managing land ownership and conducting real estate surveys.

The expropriation will involve around 380 land plots, 410 buildings, and the demolition of approximately 400 structures. Civil construction for the western section is slated to begin in Bangkok’s Pratunam area in February next year, with discussions between the MRTA and BMA also planned to address the dismantling of overpasses at Pratunam, Ratchathewi, and Sutthavas intersections. Additionally, MRTA will consult the Fine Arts Department for guidance on construction within Bangkok’s historical conservation areas.

The MRTA also shared updates on other transit developments. The Southern Purple Line, extending 23.63 kilometers from Tao Poon to Rat Burana, has reached 42.18% completion, with full operations expected by 2028. A study on its train operations will be presented to the MRTA Board next month before advancing to a Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) committee, with the concessionaire selection planned for early next year and service launch set for 2029.

Meanwhile, the Pink Line’s 3-kilometer extension from Sri Rat to Muang Thong Thani is progressing, with completion at 71.09% as of late September.

Related Articles

- Advertisement -

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Stay Connected

2,111FansLike
2,219FollowersFollow
364SubscribersSubscribe
- Advertisement -

Latest Articles

- Advertisement -