On September 23, 2024, train services along the northern railway line between Lampang and Chiang Mai were suspended indefinitely after a landslide and flooding severely damaged the tracks. According to the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the section affected lies between Mae Tan Noi station in Lampang and Tha Chompoo in Lamphun, with the incident occurring late on September 22 following heavy rains.
In the aftermath of the landslide, all northbound trains heading to Chiang Mai are now being halted at Lampang station, while passengers bound for Bangkok are departing from Lampang. To ensure continued service, the SRT has arranged for passengers to be transported via buses between the two cities.
The Meteorological Department issued a storm warning, forecasting heavy rains and thunderstorms across the northern region, affecting provinces such as Chiang Mai, Lampang, and Lamphun. The severe weather is expected to last until Tuesday, potentially delaying repair work.
The SRT has stated that it could take at least three days to repair the damaged section, provided no additional rain or flooding occurs. Meanwhile, officials are monitoring the situation closely to ensure passenger safety.
Veerith Amrapal, the Governor of the SRT, confirmed that maintenance crews are working around the clock to address the damage. He added that adjustments have been made to 12 train routes in the northern region, with all northbound trains terminating at Lampang station until repairs are completed.
Among the affected services are rapid trains 109/102, express trains 51/52, and special express trains 7/8, which are now operating between Bangkok Apiwat and Lampang, instead of their usual routes to Chiang Mai.
The SRT is coordinating efforts to minimize disruption and assist passengers during this period of service suspension.
