🚆🇯🇵 SRT has clarified that accepting used Japanese railcars will support passenger services, rail tourism and engineering training alongside its plans to develop Thailand’s own train manufacturing industry.
The railway is preparing to receive 13 KiHa 100 railcars, following earlier donations of KiHa 183 and KiHa 40/48 trains. SRT says these represent a relatively small number compared with its overall passenger fleet. The aim is to refurbish them to provide more travel options and help stimulate regional tourism.
The work also gives Thai engineers and technicians practical experience in inspecting railcars, improving mechanical and electrical systems, maintenance and spare parts management. SRT says this will help strengthen the country’s railway maintenance capabilities over the longer term.
Meanwhile, it continues to support domestic manufacturing under its Local Content policy, citing the Thai-developed Beyond Horizon passenger carriage as an example. It plans further cooperation with domestic companies on design, component production, assembly and maintenance, together with technology transfer and staff training.
SRT says the two approaches can progress together: donated trains can expand service options and support tourism in the short term, while developing Thailand’s own rail industry remains a long-term priority.
Via @PR_SRT
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