According to permanent secretary for transport Mr Supoj Saplorm, SRT
will place an initial Baht 8.67 billion ($US 267.9 million) order for
63 locomotives, which could also be extended to cover the refurbishment
of 56 existing locomotives at a cost of Baht 3.36 billion. Supoj argues
that local production will reduce the cost of the procurement programme
by at least 20% while providing employment for Thai people.

SRT will seek cabinet approval for the plan this month and plans to invite bids for the project in September.