(KPL) Today witnessed the opening of the passenger train services between Vientiane of Laos and Bangkok of Thailand.

The launching ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of Public Works and Transport of Laos, Mr. Saysomkham Manotham, and Deputy Minister of Transport of Thailand, Mr. Surapong Piyachote, along with representatives from both countries.

The opening of the Lao-Thai passenger train services from Vientiane (Khamsavath Station) to Bangkok (Bangkok Apiwat Station) is one of the cooperative projects between the Lao and Thai governments to facilitate travel between the two nations, enhance cross-border transportation, and promote trade, investment, and tourism, according to Deputy Director of the Railway Department, Ministry of Public Works and Transport, Mr. Hinphet Lakhonwong.  

“This initiative aligns with the strategic objectives of both countries in the Mekong sub-region and Southeast Asia, aiming to improve connectivity and support the development of a seamless transportation network,” said Mr. Hinphet Lakhonwong.

The construction of the new section of the Lao-Thai railway line, from Thanaleng to Khamsavath, was funded with a package of THB 1,650 million, including 70% as a loan and 30% as grant assistance, from the Thai government through its Neighbouring Countries Economic Development Cooperation Agency (NEDA). 

The project is part of the strategic development plan for the Lao-Thai railway connectivity of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport.

The construction of the Lao-Thai railway phase 2, which includes the Khamsavath Station, Thanaleng cargo station, and the rail line from Thanaleng to Khamsavath, spanning 7.5 kilometers, has been completed and was officially opened for use in October 2023.

Mr. Hinphet Lakhonwong expressed gratitude to the Thai government and people, as well as NEDA for providing financial assistance for the construction of the Lao-Thai railway and for training local staff.

For the passenger fares on the Lao-Thai railway, the initial rates for each type of seat are as follows:

Vientiane to Nong Khai: Second class air-conditioned seat and sleeping berth, 80,000 Kip or 120 Baht; third class fan-cooled seat, 47,000 Kip or 70 Baht.

Vientiane to Udon Thani: Second class air-conditioned seat and sleeping berth, 133,500 Kip or 200 Baht; third class fan-cooled seat, 67,000 Kip or 100 Baht.

Vientiane to Bangkok: Second class air-conditioned seat and sleeping berth, upper berth 523,000 Kip or 784 Baht, lower berth 583,000 Kip or 874 Baht; second class air-conditioned adjustable seat, 383,000 Kip or 574 Baht; third class fan-cooled seat, 187,500 Kip or 281 Baht.

Ticket prices are set in Baht, but passengers can pay in Kip based on the exchange rate of the bank on the day of purchase.

KPL