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Thailand and Laos Linked by Rail for First Time

Thailand and Laos are now linked by rail – the first time in the neighboring countries’ histories.

March 5, 2009
Thailand and Laos are now linked by rail – the first time in the neighboring countries’ histories. The rail link was officially opened by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand on March 5, 2009. Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and Lao Deputy Prime Minister Boonyoung Worlajit were in attendance at the opening ceremony. The new 3.5-kilometer rail track links Nong Khai on the Thai side with Thanaleng on the Lao side. Second and third class rail tickets (priced 80 Baht and 20 Baht respectively) are available for the short journey. Citizens from both countries that do not have passports can request temporary border passes from checkpoint authorities, while immigration officials will be on hand to manage entry for foreign travelers. Around 500 passengers are expected to use the new service on a daily basis. Thailand and Laos have agreed to a future extension of the service to Vientiane.
 
Image courtesy of the Nation Newspaper.

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