The transport-minister told reporters yesterday that work on the line’s infrastructure was progressing nicely and rolling stock manufacturers had stated they could deliver prior to December. Minister Juntong finished off by saying that if all went well with the trials, the Purple Line would welcome its first passengers in March 2016.
March is five months ahead of the August opening date originally forecast. The 5 December is dear to the hearts of Thai people as it is the birthday of the nation’s revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
The MRT will connect Tao Pun Station in the Bangkok district of Bang Sue and Bang Yai in the adjacent province of Nonthaburi. En route, it travels beside Samsen Road and then through the historic Rattanakosin precinct.
Key Bangkok tourist sites such as the Golden Mount Temple and Democracy Monument will be accessible via the Purple Line. In addition, it will provide easy access to the Banglamphu backpacker district.
Bangkok sets date for new suburban train route trials
News in Asia
Thailand’s transport-minister has announced that trial runs on Bangkok’s newest suburban train route will take place at the end of this year. Prajin Juntong said the first trials on the Metropolitan Rapid Transit’s (MRT) Purple Line have been moved forward to 5 December.