The government has greenlit two new laws to expropriate land in Bangkok, setting the stage for the much-anticipated Orange Line MRT project.

This exciting new line will stretch 13.4 kilometers from Bang Khun Non to the Thailand Cultural Center, weaving through 29 areas, including 11 key districts in Bangkok.

In a recent Cabinet meeting, two crucial draft decrees received approval. One defines the zones for expropriation, while the other sets boundaries for this transformative transportation project. With the Ministry of Transport now at the helm, the project is set to move forward, incorporating feedback from various government bodies.

The Orange Line MRT project will impact the following vibrant areas in Bangkok:

Chimpli, Taling Chan, Khlong Chak Phra (Taling Chan District)
Bang Yi Khan (Bang Phlat District)
Arun Amarin, Bang Khun Non, Bang Khun Si, Siriraj, Ban Chang Lo (Bangkok Noi District)
Wat Sommanat, Khlong Mahanak, Ban Bat (Pom Prap Sattru Phai District)
Suan Chitralada, Maha Nak (Dusit District)
Thung Phaya Thai, Phetchaburi Road, Phaya Thai Road, Makkasan (Ratchathewi District)
Pathum Wan, Lumpini (Pathum Wan District)
Samsen Nai (Phaya Thai District)
Ratchadaphisek, Din Daeng (Din Daeng District)
Huai Khwang (Huai Khwang District)

The Ministry of Transport emphasizes that acquiring this land is essential for the Mass Transit Authority of Thailand (MRT) to bring this project to life. This involves leveraging real estate for public transportation as stipulated by the 2019 Act on Expropriation and Acquisition of Real Estate and the 1997 Act on the Provision of Real Estate for Mass Transportation Business.

The Orange Line MRT promises 11 underground stations, starting at Bang Khun Non and concluding at the Thailand Cultural Center. This route will traverse iconic spots such as Siriraj Hospital, the Chao Phraya River, Sanam Luang, Yommarat Intersection, Pratunam, and Din Daeng.

Approximately 380 plots of land and 400 buildings will be impacted. However, public hearings have revealed strong community support for the project. The Budget Office has also committed to providing necessary funding once the draft decrees are enacted, ensuring this transformative project becomes a reality.