Fast progress in Chiang Rai rail project

The construction of a new railway project with four tunnels designed to withstand the impact of natural disasters in Chiang Rai has progressed by 20%, said the Department of Rail Transport’s (DRT) director-general Pichet Kunadhamraks.
Mr Pichet yesterday provided an update on the progress of the 323-kilometre double-track railway system, which starts in Den Chai district in Phrae, passes through Lampang and Phayao and ends in Chiang Khong district in Chiang Rai.
The project construction is divided into three sections: Den Chai to Ngao, Ngao to Chiang Rai, and Chiang Rai to Chiang Khong, and will feature 26 stations.
According to Mr Pichet, the project comprises ground-level tracks, elevated tracks, four single-track tunnels, railway bridges, overpasses, and underpasses.
He said the route will pass through a monsoon trough zone with the possibility of heavy rainfall and flooding, especially around the Yom River, and that suitable structural designs to prevent and mitigate the impact are necessary.
The DRT thus conducted a study to establish drainage standards for railway infrastructure and develop disaster risk reduction measures.
The study focuses on areas prone to flooding, landslides and subsidence. Lessons are drawn from international practices, including examples from the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States, India, Australia and China, as well as domestic experiences.
The study suggested dividing standards into three key components: the drainage system standards for disaster-prone areas, bench-marking standards for future railway structures and warning systems to detect early signs of potential disasters.
Ten high-risk locations have been selected to be included in the design process.
Mr Pichet said the information can also be applied to other railway projects, such as double-track and high-speed rail systems, to ensure preparedness against severe weather events.
This approach not only enhances safety and reliability but also ensures the sustainable development of Thailand’s rail infrastructure in the face of climate challenges.
Mr Pichet led the DRT team to inspect the drainage system construction at the Doi Luang and Ngao tunnels on Thursday.
He said the working process at both tunnels has progressed by 20% and faster than planned.
He said the ventilation and drainage systems at the two tunnels were designed to manage the rainfall effectively to direct water into natural watercourses.
Additionally, landslide prevention measures have been implemented along the railway route, while the tunnel structures can also withstand earthquakes to some extent.