The governor said that during his stewardship he expected that wooden track sleepers, many of which are 100 years old, to be replaced and cement ones laid in their place. He added that the long-term objective was to change the width of the system’s one-meter gauge rails to 1.435 metres.
Critics of the current rail network have long pushed for these two actions to be taken to avoid frequent train derailments. However, Mr Kalayanamitr did note that the track upgrade would not necessarily prevent all future derailments.
He continued by saying SRT management planned to implement enhanced staff screening procedures. These will see all staff vetted for criminal records before they are allowed to work on trains.
The governor finished off by saying his team was working on a budget to improve cleanliness in train carriages and toilets in addition to stations. As a codicil he stated that passengers should notice an improvement in these areas in the coming months.
New Thai rail boss vows improved services
News in Asia
The new boss of Thailand’s national railway company has promised that services will improve. Wutthichart Kalayanamitr says the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) will concentrate on key areas such as safety and sanitation in an attempt to regain the confidence of the nation’s train travellers.