The Bang Sue railway area will become a hub for both domestic and international transport by 2032, says Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith, who met representatives from Japanese government organisations yesterday.
Mr Arkhom enlisted the help of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism to conduct research and develop strategies for Bang Sue's expansion plans.
He said the research conducted by the Japanese organisation is nearing completion, adding that a public hearing will be held this November. Mr Arkhom said Jica has suggested a 15-year, three-stage development plan for the project.
The initial plans for Bang Sue's development will also apply to its surrounding areas, he said.
The plans include modernising Chatuchak market, constructing a skywalk from Mo Chit to the Bangkok Bus Terminal (Mo Chit 2), and creating pathways and other access points to "green areas" such as public parks.
He said the plans also aim to make Bang Sue an international transport hub, given the existing plans for Thai-Chinese high-speed trains to stop at Bang Sue station.
Ideally, the high-speed train project will further connect China and Thailand, with Bang Sue serving as Bangkok's connection hub, said Mr Arkhom.
