State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is currently collaborating with the Pollution Control Department (PCD) under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to reassess dust and pollution levels inside two key tunnels: Phasadet and Hin Lap. The objective is to ensure passenger safety and confidence in the service. The inspection is expected to take place in October 2024, with the reopening of the tunnels pending results from the pollution check. If pollution levels are found to be within acceptable limits, train services will resume immediately. Concurrently, SRT is expediting repairs to both track switches to enhance safety and expects completion soon.
Meanwhile, the Department of Rail Transport (DRT) has proposed that only air-conditioned train services should initially be allowed to pass through the tunnels. This option requires further consideration, especially regarding potential impacts on overall train operations in the northeastern region, should non-air-conditioned trains continue to use the old route. However, if the pollution inspection reveals that conditions are safe, all train services will resume using the tunnels as initially planned.
Phasadet and Hin Lap tunnels are part of the Northeastern double-track railway project between Map Kabao and Chira Junction. Phasadet Tunnel, Thailand’s longest, stretches 5.4 kilometers. It opened for train services on July 28, 2024. However, issues arose when third-class fan-cooled carriages experienced severe dust infiltration, affecting passengers during the journey through the tunnel.
Following this, cleaning efforts were undertaken, and plans were made to reopen the tunnels on August 12, 2024. However, further tests revealed that dust and pollution levels still exceeded safety standards, leading to eye irritation and throat discomfort for passengers. Moreover, issues with track switches that control train direction were also identified, further delaying reopening. These switches, crucial for safe operation, are now being addressed with the aim of reopening the tunnels by September 2024. However, as of now, the tunnels remain closed for train service.