RAIL SERVICES
MONGKOL KANNIKAR
NONG KHAI : The first Thai train crossed the border to Laos yesterday on a trial run before the official opening of the line tentatively set for next month.
Thai and Lao authorities, representatives from the private sector and local residents boarded the Bangkok-Nong Khai express train at 9.10am to experience a smooth, 3.5km ride on the new railway track which runs from Nong Khai to Thanaleng station in Laos via the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge.
The line took almost three years to build.
The construction of the rail line started on Oct 25, 2006, to move passengers and goods between the two countries. A plan to extend the line for another 20 kilometres to the capital Vientiane is under way.
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| Thai and Lao officials greet passengers on a train travelling along the 3.5km route across the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge in Nong Khai province. The train was on a trial run over a new route between Nong Khai and Thanaleng in Laos. — MONGKOL KANNIKAR |
The Thai government gave Laos a soft loan and a grant of 197 million baht to build the railway from the middle of the bridge to Thanaleng.
Dusit Pramotenee, an engineer who was responsible for the project, said the remaining work comprised an immigration office and a customs office which are still under construction.
Mr Dusit said the trial period started yesterday and will last until July 15.
Chief of the Nong Khai provincial administration office Kobkiat Karnchana said people can get free rides during the trial period by showing up at his office to get a train ticket.
Deputy governor Wiroj Jiwarangsan said the rail link will bring prosperity from the tourism industry and other investment to the Mekong subregion.
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