Project Profile: MRT Blue Line Extension, Bangkok

The MRT Blue Line Extension is a landmark 28-kilometre rapid transit project that transformed Bangkok’s Chaloem Ratchamongkhon Line into a complete orbital network. By integrating 19 new stations across elevated and underground alignments, the project significantly enhances urban mobility, connects underserved districts, and boosts the capacity of the city’s core transportation infrastructure. This profile details the technical specifications and strategic impact of this operational system.

Project Fact Sheet

Technical Specifications

The Blue Line Extension’s design features a mixed-alignment route, crucial for navigating Bangkok’s dense urban landscape. The western section is predominantly a 21.5 km elevated structure, while the eastern section includes 5.4 km of bored tunnels. This configuration enabled the line to cross the Chao Phraya River, connecting the Thonburi side of the city to the central network for the first time by metro.

Operational efficiency and safety are governed by a state-of-the-art Automatic Train Control (ATC) system supplied by Siemens Mobility. This system facilitates precise train movements, automatic protection, and optimized headways, which is critical for managing the line’s high passenger volume. The project’s E&M (Electrical and Mechanical) systems are supported by a robust DC traction power supply, ensuring consistent performance. The entire network is monitored via an integrated Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system.

The rolling stock consists of 35 new three-car Siemens Inspiro metro trains. Each train is designed for high-capacity urban transport, accommodating approximately 800 passengers and capable of operating at speeds up to 80 km/h. These modern units were essential for increasing the line’s daily ridership capacity from 360,000 to over 500,000.

Key Takeaways

• Creation of a Strategic Orbital Loop: The extension transformed the existing radial line into a full circle, fundamentally changing commuter patterns by providing new interchange options and significantly reducing cross-city travel times.
• Enhanced Connectivity to Underserved Areas: By extending into the Thonburi district and other peripheral areas, the project integrated vast residential communities into the city’s rapid transit system, stimulating local economic development and improving quality of life.
• Successful International and Local Collaboration: The project stands as a model for complex infrastructure delivery, combining Siemens Mobility’s turnkey E&M systems expertise with the civil engineering capabilities of leading Thai construction firms like CH. Karnchang and Italian-Thai Development.

FAQ

When did the Bangkok MRT Blue Line Extension open?

The full Bangkok MRT Blue Line Extension became fully operational in April 2020. The project was opened in stages, with initial sections welcoming passengers in 2019 before the completion of the entire orbital loop.

Who built the Bangkok MRT Blue Line Extension?

The project was a major collaboration between international and Thai firms. Siemens Mobility served as the turnkey contractor responsible for the metro trains, signaling, and power systems. The extensive civil and track work was managed through multiple contracts awarded to leading construction companies, including CH. Karnchang, Italian-Thai Development (ITD), and Sino-Thai Engineering and Construction.