JICA and Department of Rail Transport launch Second Mass Rapid Transit Master Plan (M-MAP2), Highlighting Strategic Railway Network Development to Enhance Urban Quality of Life

Bangkok, 21 July 2025 – At Pullman Bangkok Hotel, H.E. Mr. OTAKA Masato, Ambassador of Japan to Thailand, and Mr. Chayatan Phromsorn, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, co-chaired the opening ceremony of a seminar titled “Driving Railway Network and Urban Growth with The Second Mass Rapid Transit Master Plan in Bangkok Metropolitan Region (M-MAP2).” The seminar was also attended by Mr. Sorapong Paitoonphong, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Mr. Athibhu Chitranukroh, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Rail Transport, Mr. SAKUDO Shunsuke, Chief Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Thailand Office. The seminar provided in-depth information on the Second Mass Rapid Transit Master Plan in Bangkok Metropolitan Region (M-MAP2), which is a long-term strategic initiative committed to expanding and connecting the rail network to ensure comprehensive coverage across the Bangkok metropolitan area and while also discussing the strategic direction for developing the rail mass transit network in BMR. This network is a key foundation for driving economic growth, enhancing the quality of life for citizens, and supporting sustainable urban development.

Mr. Arkhom Termpittayapaisith, former Minister of Transport, former Minister of Finance, and currently a Special Advisor to JICA Thailand, delivered a keynote lecture titled “Necessity for Sustainable Society Utilizing Public Transportation, Considering Green Transportation” focusing on the importance of public transportation systems in driving sustainable national development and advancing environmentally friendly transport solutions. Another keynote presentation, “Urban Railway Development and TOD based on Japan’s Experience,” was delivered by Professor Dr. MORICHI Shigeru from the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS). He shared key concepts and successful case studies from Japan, demonstrating how the integration of urban rail systems and land use planning can create long-term social and economic value. In addition, a working group of experts from both Thailand and Japan, participated in technical lectures to share practical experiences and best practices in rail system development under the M-MAP2 master plan.

JICA has previously supported Thailand in the development of several urban railway projects, including the MRT Blue Line, MRT Purple Line, and Red Line Commuter Train system. Additionally, JICA has collaborated closely with the Department of Rail Transport to implement technical cooperation project under the M-MAP2 Master Plan.
This includes conducting travel demand surveys and developing models to forecast passenger volumes. Moreover, JICA has contributed to strengthening the skills of railway personnel in Thailand by providing training programs aimed at improving their capabilities in railway management and maintenance operations. JICA looks forward to continuing its close collaboration with DRT and other partners in Thailand to support urban rail development in BMR and promote sustainable urban growth.

Agenda and Digital Brochure of M-MAP2