Calling all adventure-seekers and urban explorers! Get ready to hop on board the coolest ride in town – the MRT Pink Line! It’s not your everyday train; it’s an elevated monorail that’s set to connect the vibrant heart of Bangkok to the charming corners of Nonthaburi Province. With 30 stations along its 34.5-kilometer stretch, this pink wonder is all set to become your new favorite way to navigate the city.
A Colorful Connection
Picture this: you, cruising through the northern parts of Bangkok, taking in the urban sights from an elevated vantage point. The Pink Line isn’t just a monorail; it’s a lifeline that links five mass transit lines, creating a web of convenience for your travel cravings. At the Nonthaburi Civic Center, get ready to seamlessly switch to the MRT Purple Line and the upcoming MRT Brown Line. As if that’s not enough, you can also hop onto the SRT Dark Red Line, the BTS Sukhumvit Line, and the planned BMA Grey Line. It’s like a colorful dance of connectivity up in the sky!
From Dreams to Rails
It all began back in December 2017 when construction kicked off on the Pink Line. Fast forward, and we were all excited to hear about the first section’s opening targeted for October 2021. We were already planning our monorail adventures from Min Buri to Government Complex, but then… COVID-19 decided to make a dramatic entrance. The pandemic shuffled the station locations and slowed down the progress. But hey, delays can’t keep the Pink Line down! In November 2021, the MRTA Board gave the green light for a phased opening starting from August 2022. We could almost hear the monorail’s engines revving!
Monorail Magic Unleashed
Hold on to your pink hats – testing began in December 2021, with the monorail zooming at a cool 25 km/h (16 mph). It was like a sneak peek of the awesomeness to come! And guess what? By April 2022, the Director-General spilled the beans that we’d have to wait just a little bit longer for the full testing, which is now set for September 2022. Patience is a virtue, right? But hey, good things come to those who wait! The first stage’s trial operations will start in late December 2022, and we’ll be riding in style.
Monorail Marvels and Stats
Here’s the scoop – the Pink Line will open in two fantastic stages. In Phase 1, you’ll be cruising from Min Buri (PK30) to Government Complex (PK12), covering a sweet 21 km. But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Phase 2 kicks in around August 2023, taking you from Government Complex (PK12) to Nonthaburi Civic Center (PK01) over a grand total of 34.5 km. It’s like a rollercoaster of urban exploration!
As of May 2023, the construction progress is at a whopping 86.57%. The Pink Line is shaping up to be the ride of a lifetime, and we’re all waiting with bated breath.
Facts About the Pink Line
- Route with a View: The Pink Line will be an elevated straddle-type monorail, cruising above the hustle and bustle. From Nonthaburi Civic Center to Khae Rai intersection, it’s a sightseeing bonanza!
- Station Stories: With 30 stations in the lineup, each stop promises an adventure. Elevated structures, escalators, lifts, and all the facilities you need will be there to make your journey smooth.
- Rolling in Style: Get ready for the snazzy 750 Volts DC rolling stock. These 4-car trains are a treat, and there might even be 7-car trains in the future – talk about a posh ride!
- Pink Dreams and Beyond: The MRT Pink Line is a testament to Thailand’s dedication to modern infrastructure. It’s not just about tracks; it’s about weaving dreams and connecting lives.
So, dear travelers, mark your calendars for November 2023 – that’s when the first section of the Pink Line is expected to make its debut. Get ready to paint the town pink with excitement, and let the monorail adventure begin! 🚆🎉