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149-668: The SRT was founded as the Royal State Railways of Siam (RSR) in 1890. King Chulalongkorn ordered the Department of Railways to be set up under the Department of Public Works and Town and Country Planning. Construction of the Bangkok - Ayutthaya railway (71 km or 44 mi), the first part of the Northern Line, was started in 1890 and inaugurated on 26 March 1897. The Thon Buri - Phetchaburi line (150 km or 93 mi), later

298-505: A Semang orphan boy named Khanung. In 1907 he founded the royal rice varieties competition, at first only for the Tung Luang and Rangsit Canal districts. The next year it was held at Wat Suthat and since then has been held at various locations around the kingdom, by Chulalongkorn and his descendants. Siamese authorities had exercised substantial control over Malay sultanates since Ayutthaya times. The sultans sought British support as

447-575: A general election in 2015, but he said in February 2016 that it will take place in 2017, amid delays in the drafting of the constitution . The first draft was expected to be released in January 2016. At a summit meeting with Southeast Asian leaders in California , Prayut was invited by US President Barack Obama , which was criticized by human rights activists, opposition party leaders and scholars, warning that

596-513: A novice monk for six months at Wat Bawonniwet according to royal tradition. Upon his return to his secular life in 1867, he was designated Krommakhun Phinit Prachanat ( กรมขุนพินิตประชานาถ .) In 1867, King Mongkut led an expedition to the Malay Peninsula south of the city of Hua Hin , to verify his calculations of the solar eclipse of 18 August 1868 . Both Mongkut and his son fell ill of malaria. Mongkut died on 1 October 1868. Assuming

745-412: A tonne of freight by rail costs 0.93 baht per kilometre compared with 1.72 baht by road, but 86 percent of Thailand's freight moves by road and only 2 percent by rail. Completed double tracking projects: Phase one of the project includes five sections of double-track railway with remaining two projects under construction: Cabinet approval is expected to allow the signing of contracts for phase two of

894-532: A 722-km route to Lamphun Province in the north of the country, and a 433-km route to Khon Kaen in the northeast. SRT also operates special services aimed at tourists, such as the SRT Royal Blossom train, SRT KiHa 183 Excursions, steam train services and weekend Nam Tok Sai Yok Noi and Suan Son Pradipat province. Most of these special services feature special trains, and are priced at a premium, with added services. Refurbished old KiHa 183 trains debuted on

1043-467: A Mercedes Benz S600L, a BMW 740Li series sedan, three additional vehicles, nine luxury watches valued at three million baht, US$ 200,000 in jewellery, and several pistols. He also reported the transfer of 466.5 million baht (US$ 14.3 million) to other family members. As army chief, prior to his retirement at the end of September, the general received a 1.4 million baht (US$ 43,000) annual salary. According to Human Right Watch report in 2015,

1192-562: A bloodbath in Siam, provided several steps towards the abolition of slavery, not an extreme turning point from servitude to total freedom. Those who found themselves unable to live on their own sold themselves into slavery by rich noblemen. Likewise, when a debt was defaulted, the borrower would become a slave of the lender. If the debt was redeemed, the slave regained freedom. However, those whose parents were household slaves (ทาสในเรือนเบี้ย) were bound to be slaves forever because their redemption price

1341-698: A change of Thailand's lèse majesté law . Prayut warned them that they would violate the rule of law in Thailand. In July 2012, during the GT200 controversy, a fraudulent " remote substance detector ", Prayut opined that soldiers were confident of the effectiveness of the technology, because it performed well in the field. This was contrary to the outcomes of scientific tests by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI). Later, in 2013, Prayut asked people to stop criticizing it. In August 2012, Prayut sued Robert Amsterdam ,

1490-438: A constitutional monarchy. Chulalongkorn demurred, stating that the time was not ripe and that he himself was making reforms. Throughout Chulalongkorn's reign, writers with radical ideas had their works published for the first time. The most notable ones included Thianwan Wannapho , who had been imprisoned for 17 years and from prison produced many works criticizing traditional Siamese society. In 1863, King Norodom of Cambodia

1639-553: A counterweight to Siamese influence. In 1909, the Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909 was agreed. Four sultanates ( Kedah , Kelantan , Terengganu and Perlis ) were brought under British influence in exchange for Siamese legal rights and a loan to construct railways in southern Siam. Prayut Chan-o-cha Prayut Chan-o-cha (sometimes spelled Prayuth Chan-ocha ; Thai : ประยุทธ์ จันทร์โอชา , pronounced [prā.jút tɕān.ʔōː.tɕʰāː] ; born 21 March 1954)

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1788-511: A coup, despite being in control of key levers of power. Yingluck had already been removed from office on 7 May by the Constitutional Court , in a controversial transfer , and Niwatthamrong Boonsongpaisan was acting in her place. Prayut did not inform the caretaker government of Yingluck to declare martial law, and also ordered 14 TV channels to stop broadcasting and warned Thai people not to use social media to stir up disturbance. When

1937-758: A decision by the Sangha Supreme Council by refusing to submit the nomination for Supreme Patriarch of Somdet Chuang , a Maha Nikaya monk who was next in line for the position. The appointment was stalled until a law passed that allowed the Thai government to bypass the Sangha Supreme Council and appoint the Supreme Patriarch directly. This led to the appointment of a monk from the Dhammayuttika Nikaya instead by King Vajiralongkorn , who chose

2086-630: A disturbance at government offices, airports, seaports, train and bus stations, hospitals, schools, and embassies. Prayut added that politicians had no right to criticise the draft constitution. Rival politicians have urged the National Reform Council to reject the new charter, citing numerous defects. On the activation of the Article 44, Bangkok Post commented, "The Article 44 section has no constraint, no oversight, no checks or balances, and no retribution. It says forthrightly that anything done by

2235-530: A fictional New York Police crime series. Announcing the Public Assembly Act, which took effect on 13 August 2015, Prayut said the law requires that protesters apply for permission from police for rallies at least 24 hours in advance. It bans all demonstrations within 150 m (500 ft) of the government house , the parliament , royal palaces, and courthouses, unless authorised by authorities. It also bars protesters from blocking entrances or creating

2384-641: A lawyer representing the UDD and exiled former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra , and Amsterdam's translator, who delivered a speech at a Red Shirt rally in Bangkok, on Thai military defamation. Amsterdam alleged the Thai military committed brutality against demonstrators. Prayut also told the DSI to stop implicating soldiers in the killing of Red Shirt demonstrators during the 2010 Thai military crackdown and not to disclose publicly

2533-562: A line branches to connect with the Malaysian railway at Padang Besar and the mainline continues to Su-ngai Kolok passing through Yala Province . The Eastern Line begins at Bangkok before heading through Chachoengsao , Prachinburi to terminate at Aranyaprathet in Sa Kaew Province , 255 kilometers from Bangkok. There is a reopened rail link to Cambodia from Aranyaprathet. A branch line also connects Khlong Sip Kao Junction to

2682-567: A loss every year since it was turned into a state-owned enterprise under the Transport Ministry in 1951. As the worst financially performing state enterprise, it reported a preliminary loss of 7.58 billion baht in 2010. In the fiscal year ending 30 September 2016, the military government budgeted 7,600 million baht for SRT infrastructure investments to be used for track duplication, an extension of Bangkok's elevated railway, and construction of bridges, fences, and track improvements, however,

2831-573: A major impact, as it ended the power of all local dynasties. Central authority now spread all over the country through the administration of intendants. For example, the Lanna states in the north (including the Kingdom of Chiangmai , Principalities of Lampang , Lamphun , Nan , and Prae , tributaries to Bangkok) were made into two monthons, neglecting the existence of the Lanna kings . Local rulers did not cede power willingly. Three rebellions sprang up in 1901:

2980-441: A meeting failed, he staged the coup against the caretaker government on 22 May. Prayut quickly cracked down on dissent. He seized control of the media, imposed Internet censorship , declared a curfew nationwide, banned gatherings of five or more persons and arrested politicians and anti-coup activists, some of whom were charged with sedition and tried in military courts . These limits on freedom of speech were justified on

3129-564: A network of cities according to the Mandala system codified by King Trailokanat in 1454, with local rulers owing tribute to Bangkok . Each city retained a substantial degree of autonomy, as Siam was not a "state" but a "network" of city-states. With the rise of European colonialism, the Western concept of state and territorial division was introduced. It had to define explicitly which lands were "Siamese" and which lands were "foreign". The conflict with

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3278-441: A policy that soldiers could be regarded as witnesses in the investigations and protected them from criminal charge. In May 2013, Prayut sold nine plots of land in a Bangkok suburb to a company called 69 Property for 600 million baht. Reporters subsequently asked him about the land sale, and the prime minister's position was that the media had no business questioning him on the matter, saying: "The land has belonged to me since I

3427-564: A rehabilitation plan that will be presented to the State Enterprise Policy Commission on 30 July 2018. The commission, chaired by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha is expected to approve the plan. The plan calls for SRT to become the largest railway state enterprise in ASEAN . By 2027, anticipating income growth from asset management and cost management, SRT foresees profits of over 20 billion baht. Hopewell Holdings of Hong Kong

3576-506: A sandal. After the CRES dissolved, in 2011, Prayut became part of the opposition to Yingluck Shinawatra 's Pheu Thai Party in the 2011 Thai general election . He told the media that he stood in the middle, but urged Thai people not to vote for Pheu Thai, saying it would lead to "chaos and violence". He intended to stop a violation of monarchy defamation law by red shirts activists who support Yingluck. He vowed to sacrifice his life to protect

3725-522: A significant crackdown on dissent. He formulated "twelve values" based on traditional Thai values and suggested that these be included in school lessons. Measures were implemented to limit public discussions about democracy and criticism of the government, including increases in Internet and media censorship. Prayut was elected as prime minister following the disputed 2019 general election , after having ruled as an unelected strongman since 2014. Following

3874-487: A source of his later ideas for the modernization of Siam. He was crowned king in his own right as Rama V on 16 November 1873. Sri Suriwongse then arranged for the Front Palace of King Pinklao (who was his uncle) to be bequeathed to King Pinklao's son, Prince Yodyingyot (who was Chulalongkorn's cousin). As regent, Sri Suriwongse wielded great influence. Sri Suriwongse continued the works of King Mongkut. He supervised

4023-540: Is a former Thai politician and army officer who became the 29th prime minister of Thailand after seizing power in the 2014 coup d'état and served until 2023. He was concurrently the minister of defence in his own government from 2019 to 2023. Prayut served as commander-in-chief of the Royal Thai Army from 2010 to 2014 and led the coup d'état which installed the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO),

4172-614: Is a westerly branch towards Khiri Rat Nikhom while the main line continues south to Thung Song Junction in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province where another branch reaches Kantang in Trang Province . Not far away, another branch separates off the mainline at Khao Chum Thong Junction . The main line from Nakhon Sri Thammarat continues through Phatthalung before reaching Hat Yai Junction in Songkhla Province . From here,

4321-611: Is also a branch off the mainline from Ban Dara Junction to Sawankhalok in Sukhothai Province . The Northeastern Line begins on the same route as the Northern Line, splitting at Ban Phachi Junction towards Nakhon Ratchasima . Then at Thanon Chira Junction , the line splits with one route passing Khon Kaen and Udon Thani before terminating at Nong Khai 624 kilometers (388 mi) from Bangkok. The other route passes through Buriram , Surin , Sisaket to reach Ubon Ratchathani , 575 km (357 mi) from Bangkok. There

4470-1050: Is also another branch route originating from Kaeng Khoi Junction in Saraburi Province passing through Chai Badan District in Lopburi Province and Chatturat District in Chaiyaphum Province , before joining the mainline heading towards Nong Khai at Bua Yai Junction in Nakhon Ratchasima Province . The Southern Line begins in Bangkok and heads west towards Nakhon Pathom before splitting into three different routes. One route heads west to Kanchanaburi Province (210 km (130 mi)) while another heads north towards Suphan Buri (157 km (98 mi)). The Southern Line itself continues southbound through Ratchaburi , Phetchaburi , Hua Hin , Prachuap Khiri Khan Province , Chumphon , to Surat Thani 678 kilometers (421 mi) distant. From Surat Thani, there

4619-532: Is cheaper—only roughly half the cost of road transport—safer, and more environmentally-friendly than road transport, accounted for only 1.4 percent of freight tonnage carried in 2015. SRT aims to boost its share of cargo transport to six percent with its rail duplication by 2022. Expansion of SRT's freight service, which could earn more money than the heavily subsidized passenger service, has been neglected for decades in favour of Thailand's roads. The SRT's poor financial performance and resistance to reform, coupled with

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4768-416: Is possible for freight trains to travel between Thailand and the neighboring countries (Malaysia and Laos), the amount of international rail freight presently constitutes only a minuscule portion of Thailand's foreign trade. In 2012, merely 95 thousand tons of export cargo left Thailand by rail, as compared to 12 million tons of cargo exported by road, and 114 million tons of cargo exported by ship. For import,

4917-719: Is the terminus of all Eastern line services and commuter services from Bangkok on the Northern, Northeastern and Southern lines. Phahonyothin and Ladkrabang Inland Container Depot (ICD) are the main freight terminals. The Northern Line runs alongside the Northeastern Line until the Ban Phachi Junction . There, it splits from the Northeastern Line and proceeds through Lopburi , Nakhon Sawan , Phichit , Phitsanulok , Denchai , Lampang , Lamphun , before finally reaching Chiang Mai , 751 km (467 mi) from Bangkok . There

5066-626: The Slave Abolition Act ended Siamese slavery in all forms. The reverse of 100 baht banknotes in circulation since the 2005 centennial depict Chulalongkorn in navy uniform abolishing the slave tradition. The traditional corvée system declined after the Bowring Treaty , which gave rise to a new class of employed labourers not regulated by the government, while many noblemen continued to hold sway over large numbers of Phrai Som . Chulalongkorn needed more effective control of manpower to undo

5215-487: The 2nd Infantry Division , becoming its commanding general one year later. In 2005, he became a deputy commanding general of the 1st Army, which included the 2nd Infantry Division. He was seen as one of the leaders of the alliance behind the 2006 Thai coup d'état . Like his direct predecessor, Anupong Paochinda , and former defence minister Prawit Wongsuwan , Prayut is a member of the army's "eastern tigers" faction. Most of them, like Prayut, began their military careers in

5364-546: The APEC summit at Manila , Prayut told President Barack Obama that concerns about Human rights in Thailand were based on fake news staged by people with bad intentions. In January 2016, Prayut dared people to oppose the NCPO, and said that he did not care what the international community would think about it. Prayut also made comments calling for women to look after the home. These comments were condemned as sexist Prayut promised

5513-542: The Airport Link . Nearly 91% was single-track railway (3,685 km (2,290 mi)) while 6%, mainly important sections around Bangkok, were double-track railway (251 km or 156 mi) and 3% were triple-track railway (107 km or 66 mi). The network serves 47 provinces and around 35 million passengers annually. The passenger count is expected to double by 2032, when the network grows to 6,463 km (4,016 mi) to serve 61 provinces. The SRT has suffered

5662-625: The Asian financial crisis of 1997, resulted in stringent restraints being placed on SRT staffing. In July 1998, the Thai cabinet issued an order that the SRT could only hire five new employees for every 100 retirees. As of 2018, the order remains in effect. SRT officials estimated in 2017 that the enterprise needed to boost staff by 20 percent to 12,000. In 2018 SRT claims that it needs 18,015 employees to operate efficiently, but only has 10,035 on staff. The train maintenance workforce has dwindled to 500 from 3,000 over

5811-559: The Centre for the Resolution of Emergency Situations (CRES), a special government agency that was found by Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and Deputy-Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban . Queen's Guards army general, Anupong Paochinda was the leader of the violent 2010 Thai military crackdown before Prayut stepped up to replace Anupong. Thitinan Pongsudhirak, a visiting scholar at Stanford University 's Centre on Democracy, commented that Prayut

5960-532: The Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy , Prayut started his career as a Major . He was a royal guard under Prime Minister Prem Tinsulanonda in 1987. Three years later, Prayut served in the 21st Infantry Regiment , which is granted Royal Guard status as the Queen's Guards ( Thai : ทหารเสือราชินี , lit.   ' Queen's Musketeer ' ). In 2001, he served as a deputy commanding general in

6109-663: The Eastern and Oriental Express on their tracks which runs from Singapore to Bangkok and vice versa, although trips in 2024 did not enter Thailand. A link across the First Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge to Thanaleng railway station , near Vientiane , opened in March 2009. In December 2010, following Chinese plans to extend their standard-gauge railway network to Xishuangbanna on the China–Laos border and further into Laos,

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6258-696: The Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA). From 2007 to 2010 he was independent director at Thai Oil Public Co, Ltd. Since 7 October 2010 he has been a director of Thai Military Bank and chairman of the Army United Football Club . Prayut attended management course in the National Defence College of Thailand (NDC) Class 20, in 2007. He was the chief of staff of the Royal Thai Army from 2008 to 2009, and in 2009 he

6407-607: The NCPO chief is 'legal, constitutional and conclusive'". Pravit Rojanaphruk commented, "Article 44 essentially means Prayut is the law...It needs to be added that the junta leader can also insist on staying on in absolute power indefinitely". Doug Bandow of Cato Institute dubbed Prayut as a cartoonish dictator, out of a Gilbert and Sullivan comic opera , and summed up the military junta first year that Prayut failed to achieve promises, including delivering happiness, prosperity, and security to Thai people. In 2015, Prayut had supported

6556-660: The Ngiao rebellion in Phrae , the 1901–1902 Holy Man's Rebellion in Isan , and the Rebellion of Seven Sultans in the south. All these rebellions were crushed in 1902 with the city rulers stripped of their power and imprisoned. Ayutthaya King Ramathibodi II established a system of corvée in 1518 after which the lives of Siamese commoners and slaves were closely regulated by the government. All Siamese common men ( phrai ไพร่) were subject to

6705-549: The Phalang Pracharat Party , which has close ties to the junta and is led by Prayut's cabinet ministers. In November 2018, Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak told the audience at a Forbes conference that he believes the next prime minister will look like Prayut. In late January 2019, four Prayut cabinet ministers resigned from their government positions to work for Phalang Pracharat full-time. Prayut expressed his desire to continue serving as prime minister after

6854-531: The Torrens title system, though it was not until the year 1901 that the first–fruits of this survey were obtained. In 1873, the Royal Siamese Government Gazette published an announcement on the abolition of prostration . In it, King Chulalongkorn declared, "The practice of prostration in Siam is severely oppressive. The subordinates have been forced to prostrate in order to elevate the dignity of

7003-438: The general election , Prayut released In Memory , about the conflicts before the coup. The singer goes on to say that reconciliation has been difficult but he will never forget the heartbreaking past. Also in 2019, Prayut released New Day , and his tenth song, Thai is Thai March , the latter inspired by the king's coronation. On 22 July 2014, Prayut issued an interim constitution granting himself an amnesty for leading

7152-558: The lèse-majesté law . His idea on 'Thainess' is to make peace and order. In the end of 2015, he warned academics who criticize him, said that it's up to them if they aren't afraid of the laws, and denied that his government committed human rights abuses against its critics. He said that detentions of activists were the fault of his opponents for protesting against his rule. Prayut said that he would no longer put up with criticism from "irresponsible newspaper columnists" and had instructed officials to invite them for "talks". In November, at

7301-559: The military junta which governed Thailand between 22 May 2014 and 10 July 2019. After his appointment as army chief in 2010, Prayut was characterised as a royalist and an opponent of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra . Considered a hardliner within the military, he was one of the leading proponents of military crackdowns on the Red Shirt demonstrations of April 2009 and April–May 2010 . He later sought to moderate his profile, talking to relatives of protesters who were killed in

7450-474: The monarchy , national economics , or the administration of state affairs, whether that act emerges inside or outside the Kingdom." Prayut told reporters that he would not use Article 44 to violate the civil rights of anyone who is innocent. Prayut was not required to inform the government before issuing an order, but must notify the interim parliament "without delay". He pledged to use Article 44 powers to address

7599-490: The phu yai . I do not see how the practice of prostration will render any benefit to Siam. The subordinates find the performance of prostration a harsh physical practice. They have to go down on their knees for a long time until their business with the phu yai ends. They will then be allowed to stand up and retreat. This kind of practice is the source of oppression. Therefore, I want to abolish it." The Gazette directed that, "From now on, Siamese are permitted to stand up before

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7748-491: The " Haw wars ". Chulalongkorn reigned from 1868 until his death in 1910. All his reforms were dedicated to ensuring Siam's independence given the increasing encroachment of Western powers, so that Chulalongkorn earned the epithet Phra Piya Maharat or known as the Great Beloved King . King Chulalongkorn was born on 20 September 1853 to King Mongkut and Queen Debsirindra and given the name Chulalongkorn. In 1861, he

7897-479: The 15-year-old Chulalongkorn to be dying as well, King Mongkut on his deathbed wrote, "My brother, my son, my grandson, whoever you all the senior officials think will be able to save our country will succeed my throne, choose at your own will." As Mongkut had not designated who would succeed him, the choice fell to a council to decide. The council led by Prince Deves, Mongkut's eldest half-brother, then choose Chulalongkorn as Mongkut's successor. However, Chulalongkorn

8046-523: The 2nd Infantry Division, headquartered in eastern Thailand, particularly in the 21st Infantry Regiment (Queen's Guards). After the 2006 coup, Prayut was appointed to the National Legislative Assembly . In this capacity, he joined the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources. Prayut sits on the executive boards of a number of companies including a state electricity utility company,

8195-596: The Burmese, but he did not do so. Freed of the Front Palace and Chinese rebellions, Chulalongkorn initiated modernization and centralization reforms. He established the Royal Military Academy in 1887 to train officers in Western fashion. His upgraded forces provided the king much more power to centralize the country. The government of Siam had remained largely unchanged since the 15th century. The central government

8344-511: The Council of State as a legislative body and a privy council as his personal advisory board based on the British privy council . Council members were appointed by the monarch. On the night of 28 December 1874, a fire broke out near the gunpowder storehouse and gasworks in the main palace. Front Palace troops quickly arrived, fully armed, "to assist in putting out the fire". They were denied entrance and

8493-701: The Democracy Monument to demand a general election in 2018 and to criticize Prayut and Prawit Wongsuwan . The police charged them with sedition under the order of Prayut. Under the 2017 constitution , the senate was appointed by the NCPO and would select the prime minister alongside the House of Representatives . Political parties were able to nominate anyone as their prime minister candidate, including non-party members, which led commentators to believe that Prayut planned to be selected as prime minister with votes from 250 senators and MPs from pro-junta parties, namely

8642-522: The EU. He noted that it was a long-standing problem. He reported progress on tackling forest encroachment, saying the government had reclaimed more than 35 million rai (56,000 km ) of illegally occupied public forests. In June, Prayut vowed to eliminate corruption and repair Thailand's tarnished international image. On the 2015 Bangkok bombing , Prayut suggested that a senior police force educate themselves on how to investigate by watching Blue Bloods ,

8791-484: The French in 1893 was an example. Sukhaphiban ( สุขาภิบาล ) sanitary districts were the first sub-autonomous entities established in Thailand. The first such was created in Bangkok, by royal decree of King Chulalongkorn in 1897. During his European tour earlier that year, he had learned about the sanitary districts of England, and wanted to try out this local administrative unit in his capital. With his experiences during

8940-524: The Front Palace. Chulalongkorn appointed Chaturonrasmi to be an executive of the organization, which he closely oversaw. From the time of King Mongkut, the Front Palace had been the equivalent of a "second king", with one-third of national revenue allocated to it. Prince Yodyingyot of the Front Palace was known to be on friendly terms with many Britons, at a time when Siamese relations with the British Empire were tense. In 1874, Chulalongkorn established

9089-610: The Great , was the fifth king of Siam from the Chakri dynasty , titled Rama V . Chulalongkorn was born as the son of Mongkut , the fourth king of Siam. In 1868, he travelled with his father and Westerners invited by Mongkut to observe the solar eclipse of 18 August 1868 in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province . However, Chulalongkorn and his father both contracted malaria which resulted in his father's death. Chulalongkorn's reign

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9238-697: The Heo insurgents. However, the French troops never left, and the French demanded more Laotian lands. In 1893 Auguste Pavie , the French vice-consul of Luang Prabang , requested the cession of all Laotian lands east of the Mekong River . Siam resented the demand, leading to the Franco-Siamese crisis of 1893 . The French gunboat Le Lutin entered the Chao Phraya and anchored near the French consulate ready to attack. Fighting

9387-408: The House of Bunnag , was a powerful aristocratic dynasty of Persian descent. It dominated Siamese politics since the reign of Rama I . Chulalongkorn then married four of his half-sisters , all daughters of Mongkut: Savang Vadhana , Saovabha Phongsri , and Sunanda Kumariratana (Mongkut with Concubine Piam ), and Sukhumala Marasri (Mongkut with Concubine Samli ). Chulalongkorn's first reform

9536-462: The Lao National Railway. The rail link to Cambodia via Poipet from the railhead at Aranyaprathet was constructed in 1941, but was closed in 1961 due to strained Thai-Cambodian relations during the Cold War. The rail connection was repaired and reopened in April 2019. Cross-border services briefly ran until it was suspended by the outbreak of COVID-19 . Currently, no cross-border services operate. Railway connections to Myanmar (Burma), notably

9685-488: The Northeastern Line at Kaeng Khoi Junction . At Chachoengsao Junction , there is another branch to Sattahip . Along the route to Sattahip, at Si Racha Junction , there is yet another branch towards Laem Chabang Deep Sea Port and further at Khao Chi Chan Junction for Map Ta Phut Port, in Rayong . As of January 2023, all services terminate at Bangkok (Hua Lamphong) station. No services run to Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal. The Maeklong Railway , also operated by

9834-399: The Northern Line was regauged over the next ten years. On 1 July 1951, RSR changed its name to the present State Railway of Thailand, which has the status of a state enterprise agency. On 7 April 2020, the Thai cabinet named Nirut Maneephan as the new chief of the SRT, the 29th governor in its history. As of 2020 SRT had 4,044 km (2,513 mi) of track, all of it meter gauge except

9983-536: The Office of the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission concluded that Panadda was not involved in the alleged case. Prayut then prohibited any criticism of his government. In February 2015 he explained, "If people want to do opinion polls, they are free to do so. But if the polls oppose the NCPO , that is not allowed." In September 2014, following the murders of British tourists David Miller and Hannah Witheridge , Prayut questioned what they, and other tourists who have been killed in Ko Tao recently, were wearing at

10132-461: The SRT Board approved the addition of 1,330 new workers to bring the workforce to 15,550, still fewer than needed to address staff shortages. As of 2020, SRT employed 9,204 employees and 3,721 yearly staffs totaling 12,925 while employment quotas respectively was 18,015 and 4,056 totaling 22,071. To address a long list of complaints accusing SRT of a lack of transparency in bids for projects and procurement deals, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha fired

10281-456: The SRT Light Red Line. The Red Line project is a new commuter rail system also owned by the SRT and will replace portions of rail lines running through Bangkok, eliminating at-grade crossings. Currently, two lines operate: the Dark Red Line and the Light Red Line . Thai railways transported around 11 million tons of freight per year in 2007–2012, which was around 2% of the total amount of freight moved by all modes of transportation. While it

10430-412: The SRT had managed to disburse only 53 percent of its allotted investment budget of 60 billion baht, compared with an average disbursement rate of 80 percent by Thailand's other 55 state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Disbursement rate is seen as an indicator of efficient management. SRT's budget from government for FY2020 was 13,574.9 million baht, increased from 9,087 million baht in FY2019. "If you look at

10579-426: The SRT has debts amounting to nearly 190 billion baht. The SRT consistently operates at a loss despite being endowed with large amounts of property—the SRT is one of Thailand's largest land holders, owning an estimated 39,840 hectares — and receiving large government subsidies. SRT's latest property development scheme is the Chao Phraya Gateway project. It capitalises on SRT's 277 rai , 1.16 kilometre stretch of land on

10728-536: The SRT network, gifted by the JR Hokkaido Railway Company , are now some of the most popular excursion train services, providing day and overnight tours to different provinces such as Ayutthaya, Hua Hin, Chacheongsao, Nakhon Nayok and Nam Tok Sai Yok Noi. Use Caterpillar C175-16 ACERT engines Used for special services only. (only 953 in use) (only 824 and 850 in use) (only 713 and 715 in use) In 2018, 91% of Thailand's 4,044 km rail network

10877-423: The SRT they are a bit like a patient in [intensive care] and everyone is saying to him 'you are the future' and trying to kick him out of bed when he is still moaning and groaning," said Ruth Banomyong, a logistics and transport expert at Thammasat University . The SRT annual operating losses are estimated at a minimum of 10 billion baht. In 2018 and 2019, the SRT lost 12 and 17 billion baht respectively. As of 2021

11026-742: The SRT, is independent of the national rail network and is split into two sections. The line begins at Wongwian Yai in Bangkok before terminating at the Mahachai station in Samut Sakhon , where a ferry is used by passengers to cross the Tha Chin River . The line starts again across the river at Ban Laem and continues until the Mae Klong station of Samut Songkhram . SRT operates different types of rail services, each with different service patterns as outlined below: SRT operates long-distance passenger services on

11175-465: The Siamese corvée system. Each man at the time of his majority had to register with a government bureau, department, or leading member of the royalty called krom ( กรม ) as a Phrai Luang ( ไพร่หลวง ) or under a nobleman's dominion ( Moon Nai or Chao Khun Moon Nai มูลนาย หรือเจ้าขุนมูลนาย ) as a Phrai Som ( ไพร่สม ). Phrai owed service to sovereign or master for three months of

11324-568: The Southern Line, was opened on 19 June 1903. The first railway commander of the RSR was Prince Purachatra Jayakara , Prince of Kamphaengphet. The Northern Line was originally built as 1,435 mm ( 4 ft  8 + 1 ⁄ 2  in ) standard gauge , but in September 1919 it was decided to standardize on 1,000 mm ( 3 ft  3 + 3 ⁄ 8  in ) meter gauge and

11473-518: The Thai government agreed to start negotiations on building a standard-gauge network. This would initially involve two lines: from Bangkok to the Lao border, and a longer line from Bangkok along the peninsula to the Malay border. In 2024, long distance overnight train services between Bangkok and Vientiane Khamsavath railway station were started. Shuttle trains to Udon Thani are also being operated in conjunction with

11622-675: The army chief post in October 2014. His appearance in Milan at the 10th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) on 16 October 2014 drew protests. Although Prayut claimed the coup was needed to combat corruption, some members of his own cabinet and members of the appointed national legislature, including his brother Preecha Chan-o-cha and Minister to the Office of the Prime Minister M.L. Panadda Diskul , have themselves been beset by various corruption scandals. However,

11771-516: The basis of promoting national reconciliation. On 26 May, King Bhumibol Adulyadej endorsed the coup, formally appointing Prayut to "take charge of public administration" as of 24 May 2014. The royal endorsement was seen as key to legitimising the coup. On 30 May, Prayut gave his first of a series of Friday night speeches on national television. Preempting normal broadcasting, including Thai soap operas , Prayut sometimes spoke for more than an hour, explaining government policies, warning

11920-576: The bloody conflict and cooperating with the government of Yingluck Shinawatra , who won parliamentary elections in July 2011 . During the political crisis that began in November 2013 and involved protests against the caretaker government of Yingluck, Prayut claimed that the army was neutral and would not launch a coup. However, in May 2014, Prayut launched a military coup against the government and assumed control of

12069-557: The cession of Laos in 1893, but the French troops in Chantaburi and Trat refused to leave. The cession of vast Laotian lands had a major impact on Chulalongkorn's spirit. Prince Vajirunhis died in 1894. Prince Vajiravudh was made crown prince to replace him. Chulalongkorn realised the importance of maintaining the navy and established the Royal Thai Naval Academy in 1898. Despite Siamese concessions, French armies continued

12218-500: The country as dictator and leader of the National Council for Peace and Order, a military junta. He later issued an interim constitution , granting himself sweeping powers and giving himself amnesty for staging the coup. In August 2014, an unelected military-dominated national legislature appointed him Prime Minister of Thailand. Prayut led an authoritarian regime in Thailand. After seizing power, Prayut's government oversaw

12367-476: The coup and new sweeping powers. In particular, Article 44 of the new constitution was criticised for allowing him undertake 'any action' on the basis of social harmony or national order and security. On 31 July 2014, a military-majority national assembly was established according to the constitution. The legislators were mostly senior military and police officers, and even Prayut's younger brother handpicked by him. The junta legislature unanimously voted Prayut,

12516-443: The day of travel at the station. Since May 2024, a waiting list function has been added, allowing registered users to wait for available tickets if they have been sold out. The SRT operates all of Thailand's national rail lines. As of 2023, Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal is the main terminus of all long-distance services from Bangkok on the Northern, Northeastern and Southern lines, while Bangkok (Hua Lamphong) railway station

12665-404: The digging of several important khlongs , such as Padung Krungkasem and Damneun Saduak, and the paving of roads such as Charoen Krung and Silom. He was also a patron of Thai literature and performing arts. At the end of his regency, Sri Suriwongse was raised to Somdet Chao Phraya , the highest title a noble could attain. Si Suriyawongse was the most powerful noble of the 19th century. His family,

12814-503: The dignitaries. To display an act of respect, the Siamese may take a bow instead. Taking a bow will be regarded as a new form of paying respect." The construction of railways in Siam had a political motivation: to connect all of the country so as to better maintain control of it. In 1901, the first railway was opened from Bangkok to Korat . In the same year, the first power plant of Siam produced electricity and electric lights first illuminated roadways. In 1906 King Chulalongkorn adopted

12963-648: The duty of the army to take over the task". Similarly, Reuters reported in December 2013 that close friends of Prayut, former army chief, Anupong Paochinda , and General Prawit Wongsuwan were supporters of the PDRC. The NCPO was promoting the campaign to restore "happiness" to the Thai people following six months of political turmoil. Prayut wrote a song, titled "Returning Happiness to the People." It released on early June 2014, and played on state radio and TV stations. The meaning of

13112-457: The fact that there are no reports of such stories. In April, Prayut questioned why people asked for democracy and human rights . In July, Prayut said that if the August draft constitution referendum were to be voted down, he would draft another by himself, adding that he could do anything since he has survived military parachute training. The following day Prayut retracted his statement and blamed

13261-491: The fire was extinguished. The incident demonstrated the considerable power wielded by aristocrats and royal relatives, leaving the king little power. Reducing the power held by the nobility became one of his main motives in reforming Siam's feudal politics. When Prince Yodyingyot died in 1885, Chulalongkorn took the opportunity to abolish the titular Front Palace and created the title of " Crown Prince of Siam " in line with Western custom. Chulalongkorn's son, Prince Vajirunhis ,

13410-487: The first Siamese monarch to do so, and he desired European recognition of Siam as a fully independent power. He appointed his queen, Saovabha Phongsri , as regent in Siam during his travel to Europe. During a visit to Spain and Portugal , on 26 October, he condemned and ordered his servant to be executed for a breach of etiquette committed in Lisbon , according to the telegram news from Saragossa . Siam had been composed of

13559-555: The following lines: Until 2016, SRT operated international services to Butterworth in Penang , Malaysia , in conjunction with Malaysian state operator KTM . Direct trains from Bangkok now only run as far as Padang Besar , due to the opening of KTM ETS . Since 2021, there 3 return trains operate from Hat Yai Junction and terminate at Padang Besar across the Malaysia–Thailand border . SRT has also historically allowed operation of

13708-400: The government cannot be swayed by the public's feelings. Prayut said that societal conflicts arise from social and economic disparity and an educational system that fails to instill a proper way of thinking. In December, Prayut defended Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon , blaming the media for asking questions about possible improprieties in order to divide Prayut and Prawit. Prawit was in

13857-562: The governor and board of the State Railway of Thailand in February 2017, using his special powers under Section 44 of the interim constitution. Since 1 February 2017, Tickets can be purchased online , in person, as well was on the phone by dialling 1690. Since 1 February 2024, all long distance special express and express train tickets open up 90 days in advance. Most other tickets can only be bought up to 30 days in advance. For local ordinary and commuter trains, they only can be bought on

14006-813: The grade 8, he moved to Wat Nuannoradit School in Phasi Charoen , where he was selected as one of the best students in a student magazine. In 1971, Prayut spent his senior highschool year at the Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School (AFAPS) Class 12, and in 1976, became a cadet at Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy Class 23. He graduated with a bachelor of science degree. While in the academy, he finished Infantry Officer Basic Course Class 51 in his first year and Infantry Officer Advanced Course, Class 34 in 1981. Before starting his military career, he graduated from Command and General Staff College (CGSC) Class 63 in 1985. After graduating from

14155-418: The infamous Death Railway , are defunct. The SRT operates commuter rail services from Bangkok along the Northern and Northeastern Lines up to Ayutthaya, Ban Phachi Junction, Lopburi and Kaeng Khoi Junction. Ten trains run along the route on a daily basis. A new service serving between Thon Buri and Salaya was launched on 22 October 2010, extending to Nakhon Pathom on 1 June 2022 to act as a feeder service for

14304-733: The invitation will suggest Washington 's endorsement of the military dictatorship . In March, while Prayut attended the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington DC, he gave an interview to the Voice of America , where he claimed that disaffected politicians, who had fled Thailand following the 2014 coup, had hired lobbyists in the US to spread propaganda discrediting his government. He cited reports that his government had murdered 400–500 journalists and had imprisoned thousands of Thai citizens, in spite of

14453-618: The liberal notions of democracy and elections they encountered in republics like France and constitutional monarchies like the United Kingdom . In 1884 (year 103 of the Rattakosin Era ), Siamese officials in Europe warned Chulalongkorn of possible threats to Siamese independence from the European powers. They advised that Siam should be reformed like Meiji Japan and that Siam should become

14602-517: The media for highlighting his thoughtless words and putting him in a bad mood. In August, Prayut said the result of 2016 Thai constitutional referendum was a step towards "a bona fide democracy" and free from corruption , even though the NCPO had banned debate and campaigning from the opposition. The United States , European Union , and United Nations all criticized the ban. Buddhism in Thailand has come under significantly higher state control during Prayut's premiership. In 2016, Prayut stalled

14751-604: The media spotlight for wearing a watch and ring worth millions of baht. On 16 July 2017, Prayut and the legislature issued the Crown Property law, making King Vajiralongkorn in control of the world's largest royal fortune . In February 2018, Prayut took steps to end sex tourism in Pattaya . In May, the NCPO launched raids of temples to arrest several monks, including Buddha Issara, known for his support of Prayut. In November, Prayut claimed that Thailand's economic slowdown

14900-454: The media to cease spreading dissenting views, and complaining that people weren't heeding him. After the coup, PDRC leader Suthep Thaugsuban told PDRC supporters that he had been in talks with Prayut since 2010 about how to exclude Yingluck's brother Thaksin Shinawatra and his family from power. He also claimed that before declaring martial law, Prayut told him that "Khun Suthep and your masses of PDRC supporters are too exhausted. It's now

15049-431: The military junta had sent human rights situation into "free fall". The NCPO had severely repressed freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly, detained hundreds mostly without charge, and tried civilians in military courts with no right to appeal. Prayut is known for often mocking the media. In late September, Prayut mocked a journalist during a press conference with his infamous sentence "I'll smack you with

15198-456: The military to intervene or even to seize power on the excuse of national security, if Suthep's group lead to violence. By the end of 2013, Prayut called for end to violence but hinted possibility of a Coup d'état . On 20 May 2014, amid the 2013–2014 Thai political crisis , Prayut attempted to bring the rival parties of Yingluck Shinawatra and Suthep Thaugsuban to an agreement, and declared martial law . He insisted that they had not staged

15347-572: The monarchy. Before the election date, he urged the people to vote for the party that would protect the monarchy. Eventually, Pheu Thai Party won the election in a landslide. Pavin Chachavalpongpun called on Yingluck to sack Prayut, in order to remind the military to stay out of politics. In the late 2011, Prayut heavily criticised the Nitirat group , led by Worachet Pakeerut and Piyabutr Saengkanokkul , who campaigned for constitutional reform and

15496-510: The name out of one of five given to him by Prayut. Prayut also used article 44 to replace the head of the National Office of Buddhism with a Department of Special Investigation (DSI) official. However, in August, Prayut removed him from the post after religious groups called on the government to fire him because of his reform plans, which were viewed as damaging to the image of monks. On 13 October 2016, King Bhumibol died. Prayut said

15645-404: The nation would hold a one-year mourning period. He ordered flags to fly at half-mast, entertainment activities to toned down for one month. He urged people to stay safe and pointed that national security was a top priority before King Vajiralongkorn unofficially become the new monarch. It is believed that Prayut and Privy Council President Prem Tinsulanonda were largely responsible for ensuring

15794-528: The nation's failure to meet the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. He blamed this on staffing issues, noting that the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) only has 13 aviation safety inspectors, the DCA employed 1,514. Prayut later conceded that Article 44 will not be enough to resolve illegal fishing issues within the six-month period stipulated by

15943-400: The nation's freight transportation market, in 2016 the SRT, in a joint project with Japan, started experimenting with small, 12-foot containers. It is thought that, being smaller than the standard 20-foot containers, these containers can be more easily transported by truck between a rail station and the end customer. These containers are being tried on two routes from Bangkok's Bang Sue station:

16092-401: The occupation of Chantaburi and Trat for another 10 years. An agreement was reached in 1904 that French troops would leave Chantaburi but hold the coast land from Trat to Koh Kong . In 1906, the final agreement was reached. Trat was returned to Siam but the French kept Koh Kong and received Inner Cambodia. Seeing the seriousness of foreign affairs, Chulalongkorn visited Europe in 1897. He was

16241-429: The outset, members of the royal family. Ministries were established in 1892, with all ministries having equal status. The Council of State proved unable to veto legal drafts or to give Chulalongkorn advice because the members regarded Chulalongkorn as an absolute monarch, far above their station. Chulalongkorn dissolved the council altogether and transferred advisory duties to the cabinet in 1894. Chulalongkorn abolished

16390-574: The past 30 years. To make up the shortfall, the SRT hires around 4,000 "yearly staffs", usually on daily wages of 300 baht. It has also caused the SRT to pay massive amounts of overtime pay to current employees. For example, one station master in Pattani was paid 61,210 baht in monthly salary, but also an additional 102,271 baht in overtime pay. As of 2020, the staff employment quota was 4,056 but SRT hired 3,721 staffs. As of July 2019, SRT employed 10,292 employees and 3,928 yearly staffs, totaling 14,220 while

16539-521: The podium stood up and flashed a salute seen as a sign of silent dissent against a brutal authoritarian state, inspired by Hollywood film series the Hunger Games , the three-fingered salute was widely used by protesters since May 2014. Army officials later took them to a military camp and were detained for "attitude adjustment". One of the five students, Pai Dao Din , is co-leader of the monarchy reform movement . In February 2015, Prayut declared he had

16688-576: The podium" after he was asked whether he intended to be prime minister from a coup d'état only, but not from an election. In November, Prayut pulled the ears and ruffed the hair of a reporter while the reporter was reaching out with his microphone. In December, Prayut was caught on camera, threw a banana peel at a cameraman's head after getting annoyed by reporters. When Prayut was speaking at an event in Khon Kaen on 11 November 2014, five students called 'Dao Din group' from Khon Kaen University sitting near

16837-495: The power of nobility. After the establishment of the monthon system, Chulalongkorn instituted a census to count all men available to the government. The Employment Act of 1900 required that all workers be paid, not forced to work. Chulalongkorn had established a defence ministry in 1887. The ending of the corvée system necessitated the beginning of military conscription , thus the Conscription Act of 1905 in Siam. This

16986-465: The power to forcefully close media outlets. In March, when asked how the government would deal with journalists who did not adhere to the government's laws, he replied jokingly, "We'll probably just execute them". His remarks were condemned by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ). Prayut said in March that his government had elevated the fight against human trafficking to

17135-404: The progress of its investigations. Prayut had denied any army abuses in which at least 98 people died and more than 2,000 were injured, despite on scene witnesses and evidence. Prayut said that soldiers did not kill anyone during the conflicts. He argued that soldiers seen in photos and videos armed with telescopic rifles were not 'snipers,' but were only using them for self-defense. He also adopted

17284-414: The protests. In response, Prayut urged protest groups, led by Suthep Thaugsuban , not to involve the military and called on rival sides to resolve the crisis peacefully. Suthep's actions were supported by former defence minister General Prawit Wongsuwan and former army chief General Anupong Paochinda . The two generals had had close ties to Prayut through the Queen's Guard unit. They could help influence

17433-418: The public as inefficient and resistant to change. Trains are usually late, and most of its equipment is old and poorly maintained. Although SRT's operational costs amount to two baht per kilometre traveled, SRT fares defray only a fraction of that cost. SRT has not been permitted to hike fares since 1985 which is significantly below market rate. Under the auspices of the Transport Ministry, the SRT has submitted

17582-471: The rail transport's share was even smaller. Thai railways transport both bulk freight (primarily oil products and construction materials) and containerized freight. Most of the freight movement is between Bangkok and sea ports (in particular, between the deepwater port of Laem Chabang and the container terminal in Lad Krabang , in Bangkok's eastern suburbs). In an attempt to increase the railway's share of

17731-563: The remaining Haw. The city of Nong Khai maintains memorials for the Siamese dead. In Burma, while the British Army fought the Burmese Konbaung Dynasty , Siam remained neutral. Britain had agreements with the Siamese government, which stated that if the British were in conflict with Burma, Siam would send food supplies to the British Army. Chulalongkorn honored the agreement. The British expected he would send an army to help defeat

17880-543: The results for United Thai Nation which finished 3rd in the 2023 general election , Prayut announced his retirement from politics, serving in a caretaker position until the National Assembly voted for a new prime minister on 22 August. He was succeeded by Srettha Thavisin of the Pheu Thai party , after nine years in power. After his political retirement, Prayut was appointed a Privy Councilor on 29 November in

18029-665: The river in the Khlong Toei District . The SRT hopes the project will help clear its 100 billion baht debt. The project is projected to break even within eight years and deliver profits of 140 billion baht. As of April 2019, SRT's plans are being submitted to the Transport Ministry for approval. SRT's failings are reflected in passenger numbers, which, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit have dropped from 88 million in 1994 to 44 million in 2014, and 26 million in 2020. The SRT has long been popularly perceived by

18178-529: The sale of Thai rubber to China, and completing a potash mining project to cut farmers' cost of fertiliser. He also encouraged manufacturers to cut packaging costs, particularly "beautiful packaging". In late March, Prayut announced that he had asked the king's permission to revoke martial law , which had been in place since the coup, to be replaced with Article 44 of the interim constitution. It authorises Prayut to issue "any order to suppress" any act that "undermines public peace and order or national security ,

18327-499: The same year. Born to an army Colonel, Prapat Chan-o-cha, native from Bangkok, and a school teacher, Khemphet Chan-o-cha, native from Chaiyaphum province , he was the eldest child of four siblings. He studied at Sahakit School in Lopburi (now known as Lopburi Technical college), where his mother taught. For junior highschool, he spent only a year at Phibulwitthayalai Lopburi School because his father, an army officer, moved often. Then at

18476-575: The sole candidate, as the new prime minister. The formal appointment was made on 24 August 2014, in which King Bhumibol Adulyadej officially endorsed Prayut as prime minister. Prayut became the first coup leader to serve as prime minister in almost 60 years, the last was Sarit Thanarat , and his appointment was condemned by opponents. The royal endorsement also allowed Prayut to establish an interim government until elections were held in late 2015. In August 2014, Prayut held three positions: army chief , NCPO leader and prime minister. He retired from

18625-478: The song was that the Thai people had not been happy as a result of the political crisis, and that the junta had come to return happiness to the people. In 2016, Prayut released Because You Are Thailand . In 2018, Prayut released Diamond Heart , the lyrics urge his lover, presumably Thailand, to "...build our hearts and dream together....". In April 2018, Prayut released Fight for the Nation . In January 2019, ahead of

18774-426: The succession of the widely unpopular Vajiralongkorn, in opposition to elements in the military, government, and the public who preferred his far more popular and respected sister Sirindhorn . In February 2017, Prayut asked the public not to be obsessed with democracy, rights, and liberties. He said people should take into consideration other principles, especially existing laws, to find "proper logic". He stated that

18923-562: The time. Prayut commented, "They think our country is beautiful and safe and they can do whatever they want, wear bikinis wherever they like. I'm asking, if they wear bikinis in Thailand, will they be safe? Only if they are not beautiful.", he later apologized. In his mandatory asset disclosure to the National Anti-Corruption Commission , Prayut listed 128.6 million baht (US$ 3.9 million) in assets and 654,745 baht (US$ 20,000) in liabilities. His assets included

19072-557: The top of the national agenda, along with drug suppression. He blamed Illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing , on inaction and ignorance by the Yingluck cabinet . He vowed to ban fishing operators if they are found to violate laws and abuse workers, and that could be extended to other Thai exports like rice or rubber. He warned the media that reporting on slavery labour in the Thai fishing industry could affect national security. Prayut also supported providing more aid to farmers, increasing

19221-418: The track duplication project by March 2018. The second phase will add a second track to 2,217 km of single track over nine rail links at a cost of 398 billion baht. Government plans call for an overall investment of 600 billion baht to create 2,588 km of double-track railway. Chulalongkorn Chulalongkorn (20 September 1853 – 23 October 1910), posthumously honoured as King Chulalongkorn

19370-515: The traditional Nakorn Bala methods of torture in the judiciary process, which were seen as inhumane and barbaric to Western eyes, and introduced a Western judicial code. His Belgian advisor, Gustave Rolin-Jaequemyns , played a great role in the development of modern Siamese law and its judicial system. Chulalongkorn was the first Siamese king to send royal princes to Europe to be educated. In 19th century Europe, nationalism flourished and there were calls for more liberty. The princes were influenced by

19519-537: The travel to British colonies and the suggestion of Prince Damrong , Chulalongkorn established the hierarchical system of monthons in 1897, composed of province , city , amphoe , tambon , and muban (village) in descending order. (Though an entire monthon, the Eastern Province, Inner Cambodia, was ceded to the French in 1906). Each monthon was overseen by an intendant of the Ministry of Interior . This had

19668-448: The villages. In 1875, Chulalongkorn sent troops from Bangkok to crush the Haw who had ravaged as far as Vientiane . However, they met strong Chinese resistance and retreated to Isan in 1885. New, modernized forces were sent again and were divided into two groups approaching the Haw from Chiang Kam and Pichai. The Haw scattered and some fled to Vietnam . The Siamese armies proceeded to eliminate

19817-530: The year. Phrai Suay ( ไพร่ส่วย ) were those who could make payment in kind (cattle) in lieu of service. Those conscripted into military service were called Phrai Tahan ( ไพร่ทหาร ). Chulalongkorn was best known for his abolition of Siamese slavery ( ทาส .) He associated the abolition of slavery in the United States with the bloodshed of the American Civil War . Chulalongkorn, to prevent such

19966-435: Was a single-track railway . A government initiative to move air and road transport to rail passed a major milestone on 28 December 2017 when the SRT signed nine contracts costing 69.5 billion baht with private contractors to complete track duplication on 702 km of the SRT network. The government's aim is to reduce the nation's logistical overhead, some 1.75 trillion baht, by moving air and road freight to rail because moving

20115-463: Was a kid, it belonged to my father. So what's the problem? Please stop criticising me already." In 2013-14, political conflict broke out with the involvement of the anti- Yingluck Shinawatra People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC). In late 2013, the Network of Students and People for Reform of Thailand (NSPRT), a sub-group of PDRC, tried to seize army headquarters, demanding that the military join

20264-407: Was appointed honorary adjutant to the king. In 2010, he succeeded Anupong Paochinda as commander in chief. On taking over, Prayut had stated that his mandates would be to maintain Thailand's sovereignty and to protect the monarchy . His uncommon promotion was seen as a revealing of the influence of the Queen's Guards. Amid the 2010 Thai political protests , Prayut was the part of executive of

20413-531: Was appointed the first Crown Prince of Siam, though he never reigned. In 1895, when the prince died of typhoid at age 16, he was succeeded by his half-brother Vajiravudh , who was then at boarding school in England. In the northern Laotian lands bordering China, the insurgents of the Taiping Rebellion had taken refuge since the reign of King Mongkut. These Chinese were called Haw and became bandits, pillaging

20562-689: Was characterised by the modernisation of Siam, governmental and social reforms, and territorial concessions to the British and French empires. As Siam was surrounded by European colonies , Chulalongkorn, through his policies and acts, ensured the independence of Siam. He was mentioned as "One of the Rulers of the World at the Beginning of the 20th Century" and the "Greatest King of Siam and Thailand's History." Later, known for his conflicts in " 1893 Franco-Siamese crisis " and

20711-541: Was designated Krommamuen Pikhanesuan Surasangkat . His father gave him a broad education, including instruction from Western tutors such as Anna Leonowens . Chulalongkorn, along with his siblings, were educated by Leonowens from her arrival in August 1862 through to her departure in 1867. During this time, Chulalongkorn became friends with Leonowens' son Louis Leonowens who was two years younger than Chulalongkorn. His friendship with Louis would continue his adulthood where he assisted Louis' business in Siam. In 1866, he became

20860-533: Was extremely high. Because of economic conditions, people sold themselves into slavery in great numbers and in turn they produced a large number of household slaves. In 1867 they accounted for one-third of Siamese population. In 1874, Chulalongkorn enacted a law that lowered the redemption price of household slaves born in 1867 (his ascension year) and freed all of them when they had reached 21. The newly freed slaves would have time to settle themselves as farmers or merchants so they would not become unemployed. In 1905,

21009-522: Was followed in 1907 by the first act providing for invoking martial law , which seven years later was changed to its modern form by his son and successor, King Vajiravudh. The Royal Thai Survey Department , a Special Services Group of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, engaged in cadastral survey , which is the survey of specific land parcels to define ownership for land registration , and for equitable taxation . Land title deeds are issued using

21158-481: Was forced to put his country under French protection. The cession of Cambodia was officially formulated in 1867. However, Inner Cambodia (as called in Siam) consisting of Battambang , Siam Nakhon , and Srisopon , remained a Siamese possession. This was the first of many territorial cessions. In 1887, French Indochina was formed from Vietnamese and Cambodian lands. In 1888, French troops invaded northern Laos to subjugate

21307-608: Was headed by the Samuha Nayok (i.e., prime minister), who controlled the northern parts of Siam, and the Samuha Kalahom (i.e., grand commander), who controlled southern Siam in both civil and military affairs. The Samuha Nayok presided over the Chatu Sadombh (i.e., Four Pillars). The responsibilities of each pillar overlapped and were ambiguous. In 1888, Chulalongkorn moved to institute a government of ministries. Ministers were, at

21456-677: Was not attributable to his government, but due to the international economic situation. He stated his goal of moving Thailand from a middle income economy to a high income economy through the Thailand 4.0 development initiative that aims to transform the country into a more value-based and innovation driven society. It's flagship project is the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) in the eastern part of Thailand to attract foreign investment, medical care and renewable energy. On 10 February 2018, Arnon Nampa and two others led 200–500 protesters at

21605-557: Was observed in Laos. Inconstant and Comete were attacked in Chao Phraya, and the French sent an ultimatum: an indemnity of three million francs, as well as the cession of and withdrawal from Laos. Siam did not accept the ultimatum. French troops then blockaded the Gulf of Siam and occupied Chantaburi and Trat . Chulalongkorn sent Rolin-Jacquemyns to negotiate. The issue was eventually settled with

21754-401: Was only 15 and so the council choose Si Suriyawongse to become the regent until Chulalongkorn came of age. The young Chulalongkorn was an enthusiastic reformer. He visited Singapore and Java in 1870 and British India in 1872 to study the administration of British colonies. He toured the administrative centres of Calcutta, Delhi, Bombay, and back to Calcutta in early 1872. This journey was

21903-478: Was seen as more hardline than Anupong, and in April 2009, during the red shirts ' uprising, Anupong was nominally in charge but Prayut appeared to be directing the dispersing the red shirt protesters. Prayut had led the CRES from 5 October to 21 December 2010, in which he used authoritarian methods to control a political situation. The CRES banned symbolic political-dividing products such as Prime Minister Abhisit face on

22052-772: Was the lead contractor for SRT's ill-fated Bangkok Elevated Road and Train System . The project commenced in 1990 and was terminated by the Thai government in 1998, only 13% complete. Hopewell and the SRT each blamed the other for the failure of the 80 billion baht project. Both parties sued, and the case has been in litigation since its cancellation. On 23 April 2019, Thailand's Supreme Administrative Court upheld an arbitration committee's ruling in favour of Hopewell. The court ordered SRT to pay Hopewell compensation of 11.88 billion baht, plus 7.5% interest per year. The interest, totaling 13 billion baht, brings SRT's total liability to nearly 25 billion baht, payable within 180 days. Rail freight, which

22201-455: Was to establish the " Auditory Office " (Th: หอรัษฎากรพิพัฒน์) on 4 June 1873, solely responsible for tax collection, to counter the influence of the Bunnag family who had been in control of wealth collection since early Rattanakosin . As tax collectors had been under the aegis of various nobles and thus a source of their wealth, this reform caused great consternation among the nobility, especially

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