Rapid Transit Authority Unveils Regional Rail Plan for Five Provinces with Hat Yai Project as Priority

Key summary

The Railway Metro (RFTM) has announced a strategic plan to advance regional mass transit rail projects in five provinces: Chiang Mai, Phuket, Nakhon Ratchasima, Phitsanulok, and Songkhla. The most recent development is the Hat Yai project in Songkhla province, which was approved by the Cabinet on August 5, 2026 (2569 BE). The project is estimated to require an investment of 16,186.01 million baht, covering a total distance of 12.54 kilometers with 12 stations. The route starts from Khlong Hua Intersection, follows Kanjanavanich Road to Kor Hong Intersection, and continues along Phetkasem Road to the Songthaew station. It includes one depot and maintenance center at Khlong Hua station and three intermodal transfer points at Khlong Hua, Kor Hong, and Songthaew stations.

The project aims to address lessons learned from the 2025 (2568 BE) flood in the area by designing rail structures for maximum safety. The timeline for the Hat Yai project is as follows: promulgation of the Royal Decree authorizing RFTM operations in Songkhla in 2026 (2569); hiring consultants to review feasibility and design in 2027 (2570-2571); submitting the project for approval and investment models in 2028 (2572); selecting private partners in 2029-2030 (2573-2574); construction from 2030 to 2033 (2574-2577); and opening for service in 2034 (2578).

Other projects under the regional strategy include:

1. Chiang Mai: Red Line from Nakhon Phing Hospital to Rajpruek Royal Park, targeting service opening in 2036 (2575). This is expected to be the first regional rail project to commence construction.

2. Phuket: Phase 1 from Phuket International Airport to Chalong Intersection. Due to the route being on a highway, coordination with the Department of Highways is required. The project faces potential delays due to the upcoming Katoo-Pattong Expressway, expected completion in 2035 (2573), which will offer alternative transport options. Service opening target is 2036 (2575).

3. Nakhon Ratchasima: Orange Line from Thep Rat Hospital to Joint Jo Hor Station. Due to the long route and high budget requirements, this project is scheduled for implementation after Chiang Mai and Phuket.

4. Phitsanulok: Red Line from Phitsanulok University to Central Phitsanulok Shopping Mall. The project is currently reviewing Terms of Reference (TOR) for consulting services. Feasibility studies are pending clarity on the High-Speed Rail project connecting Bangkok, Phitsanulok, and Chiang Mai, which will significantly impact passenger volume and project viability.