Bangkok: The governor of the State Railway of Thailand led a team to test the first diesel railcars, KIHA 40 and 48, on Thai railway tracks before they are fully operational by the end of this year. Mr. Veerit Amrapal, Governor of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), revealed that the State Railway of Thailand brought in 2 air-conditioned diesel railcars, the KIHA 40 and KIHA 48, which have been renovated, for testing to assess their readiness before officially opening them for service. After passing the field tests, the process of renovating the exterior paint and additional restrooms will begin before they are put into service for the public in late 2025, totaling 6 cars, and will gradually be renovated until all 20 cars are completed.
According to Thai News Agency, the test run of the KIHA 40 and KIHA 48 air-conditioned diesel railcars is a crucial step in assessing the readiness of the initial engineering performance of the trains. This includes checking engine and transmission conditions, testing acceleration, braking distance, and the mechanical vibration monitoring system, along with the air conditioning system. Notably, the engineering team adjusted the wheel axle base width from 1.067 meters as per the Japanese rail standard to 1 meter to conform with the Thai rail standard, including improvements to the carriage and braking systems.
Mr. Wirit added that the KIHA 40 and KIHA 48 air-conditioned diesel railcars are planned to be used by the State Railway of Thailand as a suburban passenger train (FEEDER) to support travel between Bangkok and its vicinity. This initiative aims to enhance the potential of suburban trains to facilitate short-distance passenger travel in the morning and evening, ensuring a convenient and seamless connection between cities.
The State Railway of Thailand received a total of 20 air-conditioned diesel railcars from JR EAST Company, consisting of 9 model 40 cars with double cabs and a maximum capacity of 65 seats per car. These are divided into 2 cars with long seats and 7 cars with cross seats, including toilets on both sides. Additionally, there are 11 model 48 cars with a single cab and a toilet on the other side, featuring long seats throughout and a maximum capacity of 82 seats per car.
The introduction of the KIHA 40 and 48 air-conditioned diesel railcars marks an important step for the State Railway of Thailand in enhancing service quality. It addresses the public’s demand for a transportation system that is convenient, fast, and adheres to high safety standards.