Tracks for the Purple Line have already been laid and the rolling stock will be used to run system tests expected to begin next month. The line connects Bangkok’s Bang Sue transport interchange and Bang Yai in neighbouring Nonthaburi Province.
The trains were built by the Japan Transport Engineering Company (J-TREC) and shipped from Yokohama. The pair are the first of 21 trains due to be delivered by February 2016.
At the Laem Chabang ceremony, Minister Termpittayapaisith explained that the Purple Line would be the first urban train service to connect the capital and Nonthaburi. He noted that it would provide a cheap and convenient means of commuting for Thai people and might spur investment.
12GO ASIA operates an online reservations system which gives customers easy access to tickets for travel on buses and trains in Thailand and adjoining Southeast Asian nations. All users have to do is select their dates and destinations and we do the rest. Train image courtesy of Rail Journal.
First trains for Bangkok commuter line land at Thai port
News in Asia
Thailand’s transport-minister presided over ceremonies to welcome the first trains for a new Bangkok commuter line earlier this week. Arkhom Termpittayapaisith travelled to the Gulf of Thailand’s Laem Chabang Port for the official ceremony to accept the two new Purple Line trains.