On November 14, 2024, a community meeting at Ban Mai Pattana, Muang District, Nakhon Ratchasima, brought together local leaders and state railway representatives to address public concerns over the construction of the high-speed and dual-track railway projects. Spearheaded by former Nakhon Ratchasima mayor Surawut Cherdchai and Chaiwat Wongbenjarat, Vice President of the Nakhon Ratchasima Chamber of Commerce, the meeting highlighted calls to modify the project design to better align with community needs.
Key demands included replacing embankments with elevated structures to reduce the environmental and social impact, particularly in areas such as Ban Mai and Ban Ko Kruat, where residents have voiced strong opposition. Demonstrations included symbolic acts like coffin burning and temporary blockages of local train services to emphasize the need for change.
Railway authorities, led by Wirit Amrapal, Governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), have confirmed ongoing revisions to the design for the 12.36-kilometer stretch from Khao Kradong Station to Nakhon Ratchasima Station. Adjustments include elevating overpasses at critical intersections to a height exceeding 5 meters, ensuring all vehicle types can pass through. This proposal will be submitted for Cabinet approval and additional budget requests, with the finalized plans expected to be shared with the public by year-end.
Another major concern is the fate of the 90-year-old Nakhon Ratchasima Railway Station, Thailand’s first railway hub and a vital part of the nation’s transportation history. Local leaders have urged the SRT to preserve the station, integrating it with the new facility to create a historical landmark and educational hub. Governor Wirit has acknowledged these concerns and pledged to expedite both the railway redesign and station preservation efforts in time for the 2029 International Horticultural Expo.
The revised railway design is also expected to improve local drainage and provide future transit corridors under the elevated tracks, ensuring sustainable development and maximum budget efficiency.