New Lao-Thai train service undergoes testing phase

The Lao National Railway Corporation, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, and Railways of Thailand, are carrying out trial runs of a train service between Thanalaeng station and Vientiane Khamsawat station from May 14-17.

A train on a trial run from Thanalaeng to Vientiane Khamsawat station.

Test runs are taking place in preparation for the start of a cross-border service between Nong Khai in Thailand and Vientiane Khamsawat station. Nine journeys are being trialled each day between 08:30-15:30.
From May 18-20, a service running from Udon Thani through Nong Khai and Thanalaeng and ending at Vientiane Khamsawat station will also be trialled.
The manager of Thanalaeng station, Mr Khonesavanh Khamphivong, said “Today we are operating the train from Thanalaeng to Khamsawat station for the first time, using Lao drivers, with support from Thai counterparts.”
Tests to date reveal that the trains are running smoothly and more trial runs will be carried out until May 20.
Khamsawat station in Vientiane is operating under Phase II of the Lao-Thai Railway Construction Project. It is located in Khamsawat village, Xaysettha district, and is part of ongoing efforts to improve regional logistics services.
Phase II comprises a 7.5km extension of the railway from Thanalaeng station at the Thai border to Vientiane.
This section will cost 994.7 million baht (about 235.6 billion kip) to build, of which 30 percent is funded by a grant and 70 percent by a low interest loan from Thailand’s Neighbouring Countries Economic Development Cooperation Agency (NEDA).
Section II of the project includes the construction of dormitories for staff, the station itself, track, and other components.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update May 16, 2024)