Thailand’s longest railway tunnel nears completion, opening planned for 2028

LAMPANG – Thailand's longest railway tunnel, measuring 6.2 kilometres, is nearing completion in the mountainous northern region of the country. Excavation of the Ngao Tunnel, situated in Ngao district, Lampang province, is expected to conclude in December, with train services slated to commence in 2028. Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn attended a tunnel breakthrough ceremony on Wednesday (11 November) at the Ngao Tunnel site.

The tunnel, which is 6,215 metres long, is a crucial component of the Den Chai–Chiang Rai–Chiang Khong railway project. Construction of the tunnel began on 22 December 2023, with only 24.30 metres remaining to be excavated. Phiphat emphasized the significance of this milestone for Thailand's railway infrastructure, noting the engineering challenges posed by the complex geological conditions of the mountainous terrain.

The project required specialized techniques and stringent safety measures due to the presence of diverse rock formations, such as limestone and volcanic ash deposits that are millions of years old. After the completion of excavation in December, additional work will focus on constructing the tunnel's internal infrastructure, railway systems, and safety equipment, followed by rigorous inspections and testing.

The railway is projected to open its doors in 2028, enhancing passenger connectivity and freight transportation in northern Thailand. This development was reported by Khaosod English, originally published on their platform.