BANGKOK, Feb 19 (TNA) – A new self-reliance development
strategy “Thai First” has been launched with the first target to rely on 40
percent of Thai-made materials for railway construction projects.
Fifteen public agencies and private enterprises signed an
agreement spearheaded by Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological
Research on Wednesday.
The “Thai First” strategy is aimed at advancing innovation
and human resources development in order to become more self-reliant in railway
construction.
The agreement also set a target for using at least 40
percent of Thai-made materials worth THB7 billion within four years.
At present, Thailand was capable of manufacturing
powertrain, brake system and cabin equipment, said Sorapong Paitoonpong,
Director-general of Rail Transport Department.
Using domestically-manufactured parts and materials could
reduce maintenance cost and fare, he said. (TNA)
