Challenge of policy implementation

A case study of high speed rail project for Bangkok – Nong Khai route under the cooperation of Thai and Chinese government

Abstract

This is a qualitative research that examines the challenges of policy implementation in a cooperation project between the governments of Thailand and China to develop high-speed rail systems connecting Bangkok and Nong Khai. The study aims to elucidate the background and essence of high-speed rail policy formulation and identify problems and obstacles, including the need for government investment in rail infrastructure development. Ten key informants were interviewed, and the results revealed that the high-speed rail project leverages geographical advantages to enhance transportation services and related industries, especially in connection with China's rapid economic growth. However, the project encountered various implementation difficulties, such as legal issues and the impact of COVID-19 on the project timeline. Therefore, the study recommends that the government should establish higher standards for rail transport to compete with other forms of travel. Moreover, the researchers suggest the following solutions to the obstacles: 1) the State Railway of Thailand needs to forecast the material demand accurately, accounting for fluctuations in construction material prices that may impact future project costs; 2) the responsible agency should have a clear plan for high-speed rail; 3) there should be a clear guideline for cooperation with educational institutions to develop human resources.