Thailand's Transport Ministry has unveiled plans for Phase 2 of the dual-track railway southern route, spanning 534 km across three segments connecting Chumphon to Padang Besawar (Thailand-Malaysia border). An initial 504 km will begin construction with a budget of 106.8 billion baht, targeting starts in July 2027. A 30 km Haad Yai-Songkhla segment (15.9 billion baht) is deferred due to dense settlement challenges. The project incorporates lessons from November 2024 flooding, adding 3 km elevated viaduct and 2 km embankments in Haad Yai. The Cabinet will review the proposal at a Songkhla mobile meeting on 1 September 2026.