Thailand's cabinet approved 106.7 billion baht in railway expansion projects in the south—three double-track lines (Chumphon-Surat Thani, Surat Thani-Hat Yai, Hat Yai-Padang Besar) fully funded over 6-8 years. Construction costs rose due to geopolitical factors and material inflation. Three northern routes approved conditionally pending feasibility review. Relevant for logistics, supply chain, and regional infrastructure exposure.