13/03/2024
**State Railway of Thailand Unveils First Curved Railway Underpass in Thailand**
**Bangkok, Thailand (March 13, 2024):** The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has unveiled the first curved railway underpass in Thailand, a new innovation using modern technology from Switzerland. The underpass is part of the construction project for the double-track railway between Denchai, Chiang Rai, and Chiang Khong. It will be used for cars to go under the railway tracks. There are no level crossings on this route.
The underpass is made of precast concrete reinforced with steel and can be easily assembled on site. This reduces construction time and costs by 20-25%. It also reduces carbon dioxide emissions from cement use and increases the height and width of the underpass, making it easier for people to move around than traditional underpasses.
The first curved railway underpass was built in Pong Pa Wai Subdistrict, Denchai District, Phrae Province. It is part of Contract 1 of the Denchai-Ngao section, which has a span length of 16.5 meters, a length of 33.5 meters, and a height of 4.2 meters. The construction is expected to take about two months to complete.
The SRT plans to build at least 37 more similar underpasses along the project route, including 21 in Contract 1, 8 in Contract 2, and 8 in Contract 3. The SRT is also considering using this construction method for other double-track railway projects.
**Progress of the Denchai-Chiang Rai-Chiang Khong Double-Track Railway Project**
The Denchai-Chiang Rai-Chiang Khong double-track railway project is a new railway line that will connect Thailand to Laos and China. The project is divided into three contracts:
* Contract 1: Denchai-Ngao (103.7 km)
* Contract 2: Ngao-Chiang Rai (132.3 km)
* Contract 3: Chiang Rai-Chiang Khong (87.1 km)
The project is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in 2028.
**Benefits of the Denchai-Chiang Rai-Chiang Khong Double-Track Railway Project**
The Denchai-Chiang Rai-Chiang Khong double-track railway project will provide a number of benefits, including:
* Reduced travel time for passengers and freight
* Improved connectivity between Thailand, Laos, and China
* Increased economic development in the region
* Reduced carbon emissions
Source: State Railway of Thailand