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♪ ♪ ♪
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00:00:04,872 --> 00:00:08,374
Welcome to thailand!
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00:00:10,111 --> 00:00:12,410
(Teddy)
we're riding on a railway
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00:00:12,446 --> 00:00:16,448
That's a backpacker's dream
and every builder's nightmare.
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00:00:16,483 --> 00:00:18,883
(Teddy)
where 40 year old trains
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00:00:18,919 --> 00:00:21,720
Battle weather beaten tracks.
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00:00:25,225 --> 00:00:28,260
(Teddy)
travel through complete chaos.
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00:00:28,395 --> 00:00:32,831
I've never seen
anything like this.
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00:00:32,867 --> 00:00:34,066
Hello!
Come in, come in!
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00:00:34,201 --> 00:00:36,702
(Teddy)
and the most
challenging terrain.
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00:00:38,072 --> 00:00:41,906
These trains show what
it truly means to be mighty!
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00:00:41,942 --> 00:00:47,679
♪ ♪ ♪
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00:00:47,814 --> 00:00:51,516
The kingdom of thailand
famous for tropical beaches,
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00:00:51,552 --> 00:00:54,987
Holy temples
and vibrant street life.
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00:00:55,122 --> 00:00:58,057
It's the exotic jewel of
southeast asia and there's
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00:00:58,158 --> 00:01:02,661
No better way to see
it than by train.
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00:01:02,696 --> 00:01:05,497
We're gonna cross a ton of
different landscapes on this
journey.
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00:01:05,632 --> 00:01:06,598
So, we're almost
at the station
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00:01:06,733 --> 00:01:09,367
And I can't wait
to jump on my first train.
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00:01:09,403 --> 00:01:13,572
(Teddy)
my 4 day 1,300 kilometer
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Journey starts here at
the station in surat thani.
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Thanks!
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♪ ♪ ♪
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For the first leg of my
trip I'm heading out along
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00:01:21,682 --> 00:01:24,716
The shores of the gulf of
thailand to the sprawling
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Metropolis of bangkok.
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00:01:27,554 --> 00:01:30,388
From there I'll head north
again through lopburi in
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Thailand's central plains,
before climbing into
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The peaks of the
thai highlands to the
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Ancient city of chiang mai.
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(train master on megaphone)
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There are a dozen trains that
take passengers to bangkok every
day.
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00:01:47,040 --> 00:01:48,573
When you get to the station
it's a bit of a rush.
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00:01:48,609 --> 00:01:50,208
You only have a few
minutes to grab your stuff
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00:01:50,244 --> 00:01:51,944
And get on board.
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The state runs
the trains in thailand.
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They have 250
locomotives in their fleet.
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00:01:57,485 --> 00:01:59,418
Most are at least
40 years old,
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00:01:59,553 --> 00:02:01,319
But they are workhorses.
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00:02:01,355 --> 00:02:03,188
Exactly what's needed
to battle thailand's
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00:02:03,190 --> 00:02:08,226
Punishing terrain
and weather.
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00:02:08,262 --> 00:02:12,497
(Teddy)
made in France this
alstom locomotive is
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00:02:12,533 --> 00:02:17,836
16.2 meters long, 3.9 meters
high and 2.8 meters wide.
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00:02:17,872 --> 00:02:22,641
It's powered by a 2400
horsepower diesel electric
engine.
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00:02:22,676 --> 00:02:24,109
It will be pulling
6 carriages with
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00:02:24,145 --> 00:02:30,448
A hundred and thirty
eight passengers.
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00:02:30,484 --> 00:02:33,851
With a top speed of only
95 kilometers an hour
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00:02:33,887 --> 00:02:36,054
Thai trains aren't
built for speed,
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00:02:36,090 --> 00:02:40,526
More like tanks
ready for battle.
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00:02:40,660 --> 00:02:42,327
We just left the train
station in surat thani,
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00:02:42,362 --> 00:02:43,595
Taking our time
getting out of town.
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00:02:43,631 --> 00:02:45,797
Soon we'll be up at a
much faster clip and we've
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00:02:45,932 --> 00:02:50,035
Got a long way to go.
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00:02:50,070 --> 00:02:52,937
Show me
your ticket, please.
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00:02:52,973 --> 00:02:56,074
(Teddy)
my journey starts on
thailand's southern line.
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00:02:56,109 --> 00:03:02,080
Over one thousand kilometers,
it's the longest in the entire
country.
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00:03:02,115 --> 00:03:04,516
The southern line was
completed in the early 1920's.
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00:03:04,651 --> 00:03:07,485
It connected bangkok,
singapore and malaysia
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00:03:07,521 --> 00:03:11,123
And it resulted in the first
real tourist boom for thailand.
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00:03:11,258 --> 00:03:16,461
But it's not just
tourists riding the train.
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00:03:16,496 --> 00:03:20,532
Third class carriages are
most popular with locals
and backpackers.
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00:03:20,601 --> 00:03:22,867
There are no assigned
seats and just a rickety
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00:03:22,903 --> 00:03:26,838
Fan blowing hot air,
but fares are cheap.
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00:03:26,973 --> 00:03:29,474
A third-class ticket from
surat thani to bangkok
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00:03:29,509 --> 00:03:32,844
Will set you back
217 thai baht,
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00:03:32,979 --> 00:03:36,215
Just over nine canadian dollars.
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00:03:36,316 --> 00:03:37,816
Lots of different
classes and types of
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Cabins on this train so
the seating in each are
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00:03:39,820 --> 00:03:42,254
Often very different.
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00:03:42,389 --> 00:03:45,357
Second class appeals
to the flash packer set
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00:03:45,492 --> 00:03:47,492
Travellers willing to
spend more for comfortable
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00:03:47,527 --> 00:03:49,994
Seating and air
conditioning.
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00:03:50,030 --> 00:03:53,999
A ticket here will cost
you almost 28 canadian dollars.
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00:03:54,134 --> 00:03:55,634
As far as first class?
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00:03:55,769 --> 00:03:58,637
Well there is none.
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00:04:00,474 --> 00:04:05,009
(Teddy)
fifty million people
ride these trains every year.
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I want all the passengers
to enjoy their trip.
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00:04:11,918 --> 00:04:13,685
(Teddy)
to handle the
sheer volume of riders,
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00:04:13,820 --> 00:04:22,226
30 year old carriages,
once deemed obsolete,
are refurbished.
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00:04:22,262 --> 00:04:28,967
We're focused on passengers'
safety and the solidity
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00:04:29,003 --> 00:04:36,408
Of the carriage structure.
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00:04:36,543 --> 00:04:37,942
(Teddy)
every four years carriages
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00:04:37,978 --> 00:04:42,380
Are given a major overhaul at
the makkasan depot in bangkok
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00:04:42,416 --> 00:04:44,716
A massive workshop
that's the size of almost
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00:04:44,752 --> 00:04:51,289
3000 regulation
tennis courts.
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00:04:51,325 --> 00:04:54,926
We cut out and scrape
off the old rusted panels.
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00:04:54,962 --> 00:04:58,063
Put new metal panels on
and weld and grind them so
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00:04:58,198 --> 00:05:04,969
That it's ready for putty
coating and new paint.
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00:05:04,972 --> 00:05:11,376
By overhauling them we can
extend their lifetime for
another 4 years.
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00:05:11,411 --> 00:05:13,511
(Teddy)
despite their age,
the refurbished carriage
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00:05:13,547 --> 00:05:22,320
Come out looking brand new
and ready to go back out
on the line.
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00:05:22,356 --> 00:05:24,422
Ninety per cent of
thailand's rail lines
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00:05:24,458 --> 00:05:27,325
Are single track,
meaning trains traveling
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00:05:27,361 --> 00:05:30,895
In different directions
and at different speeds
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00:05:30,931 --> 00:05:34,366
All have to share
the same line.
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00:05:34,501 --> 00:05:37,169
It's a complicated dance
coordinated out of central
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Train control in bangkok.
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00:05:43,877 --> 00:05:47,445
At the ctc we deal
with many trains
from different lines.
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00:05:47,481 --> 00:05:53,518
Thailand's rail network
is made up of five
different lines.
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00:05:53,653 --> 00:05:54,852
Busier routes around
the capital city of bangkok
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00:05:54,888 --> 00:05:56,454
Are tracked by
computer-controlled
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00:05:56,490 --> 00:05:59,557
Signals and
train locators.
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00:05:59,593 --> 00:06:04,662
For example, line number 112
is currently 3 minutes
behind schedule.
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00:06:04,698 --> 00:06:09,901
For the other 90 percent
of the lines, technology
isn't as advanced.
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00:06:14,474 --> 00:06:16,274
(Teddy)
to track trains in these
areas, including the one we're
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00:06:16,409 --> 00:06:18,009
On now, traffic
control staff call
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00:06:18,144 --> 00:06:24,783
Stations and
drivers directly.
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00:06:27,654 --> 00:06:33,825
(Teddy)
routes are plotted out
with graph paper and rulers.
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00:06:33,960 --> 00:06:36,561
We have to stop according
to the official track schedule.
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00:06:36,596 --> 00:06:39,797
(Teddy)
with 300 passenger
and cargo trips every day
111
00:06:39,833 --> 00:06:42,700
Throughout the country,
even the tiniest mistake
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00:06:42,736 --> 00:06:46,504
Or miscommunication
can turn deadly.
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00:06:46,540 --> 00:06:50,308
If something happen like an
accident we cannot control it
114
00:06:50,344 --> 00:06:53,445
And sometimes they crash.
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00:06:53,580 --> 00:06:57,615
(Teddy)
in 2009, 7 people were
killed and 88 injured when
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00:06:57,651 --> 00:07:01,052
A driver on a northbound
passenger train fell asleep,
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00:07:01,187 --> 00:07:03,588
Missed a signal,
and collided head on
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00:07:03,624 --> 00:07:06,324
With a southbound
freight train.
119
00:07:06,360 --> 00:07:08,560
The track was so badly
damaged that train service
120
00:07:08,695 --> 00:07:15,801
From bangkok along the southern
line was cut off for days.
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00:07:15,935 --> 00:07:17,068
Everyone was affected,
whether it was continuing
122
00:07:17,203 --> 00:07:23,842
With their daily
chores or commuting.
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00:07:23,877 --> 00:07:28,880
♪ ♪ ♪
124
00:07:29,015 --> 00:07:31,916
(Teddy)
in remote rural areas
where there are no signals.
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00:07:31,952 --> 00:07:34,652
Drivers have to grab
a right of way token to be
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00:07:34,688 --> 00:07:40,125
Allowed to drive on
the section of track ahead.
127
00:07:40,260 --> 00:07:43,795
We have the right of way
128
00:07:43,930 --> 00:07:45,096
For this section of
the rail till next station.
129
00:07:45,231 --> 00:07:48,132
We are the only train
travelling on this section.
130
00:07:48,168 --> 00:07:50,769
(Teddy) if there's no token
available, the driver has to
stop at
131
00:07:50,904 --> 00:07:55,373
The next pull over to wait
for the track to clear.
132
00:07:55,409 --> 00:07:59,211
This is to prevent
any collisions.
133
00:07:59,345 --> 00:08:01,746
(Teddy)
when the right of way
train gets to the next station,
134
00:08:01,781 --> 00:08:04,082
The driver drops off
the token for the next
135
00:08:04,117 --> 00:08:11,589
Available train
to pick up.
136
00:08:11,625 --> 00:08:14,692
(Teddy)
as we get ready to
pull into chumphon station.
137
00:08:14,728 --> 00:08:17,562
Right now, I'm on the hunt
for something to eat.
138
00:08:17,597 --> 00:08:22,834
I get to see another
thai train tradition.
139
00:08:22,969 --> 00:08:27,506
Food vendors coming
right up to the windows!
140
00:08:30,244 --> 00:08:34,312
(Teddy)
if you do get off to
buy something be careful.
141
00:08:34,348 --> 00:08:36,915
(Teddy)
the train doesn't stop
for long and you don't
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00:08:36,950 --> 00:08:41,085
Want to be left behind.
143
00:08:41,121 --> 00:08:43,054
Almost didn't
make it there!
144
00:08:43,189 --> 00:08:45,690
400 kilometers south of
bangkok, we're traveling
145
00:08:45,825 --> 00:08:48,360
Along the gulf of
thailand, an area that
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00:08:48,494 --> 00:08:54,365
Relies heavily on
tourism and agriculture.
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00:08:54,401 --> 00:08:55,967
Now we're in the south
of the country.
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00:08:56,003 --> 00:09:01,005
It's flat, mostly
rice fields and forest.
149
00:09:01,041 --> 00:09:04,543
(Teddy)
vegetation in this
tropical climate grows fast.
150
00:09:04,644 --> 00:09:06,978
So fast, that even
in between trimmings,
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00:09:07,113 --> 00:09:09,314
It can over take the tracks.
152
00:09:09,349 --> 00:09:12,784
That uproots rails,
throwing everything off level.
153
00:09:12,919 --> 00:09:15,453
Not only does this
mean a bumpy ride
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00:09:15,489 --> 00:09:18,356
The undercarriages take such
a beating that chassis have
155
00:09:18,392 --> 00:09:25,997
To be replaced every year.
156
00:09:33,373 --> 00:09:35,573
(Teddy)
during this annual
two-day maintenance,
157
00:09:35,609 --> 00:09:38,176
The engine carriage and
chassis of the locomotive
158
00:09:38,311 --> 00:09:40,845
Are separated,
the engine is serviced,
159
00:09:40,880 --> 00:09:50,054
While the chassis
gets a complete overhaul.
160
00:09:50,090 --> 00:09:56,027
What weare doing here
is taking the chassis apart,
161
00:09:56,062 --> 00:09:57,829
Repair the equipment,
repair the frame,
162
00:09:57,964 --> 00:10:04,969
Weld, grind and
put it all back together.
163
00:10:05,005 --> 00:10:07,605
(Teddy)
over a thousand
workers focus on keeping all
164
00:10:07,608 --> 00:10:10,074
Locomotives and
carriages rail ready.
165
00:10:10,110 --> 00:10:17,882
(whistle blows)
166
00:10:17,917 --> 00:10:20,985
Even with regular
maintenance, driving one
167
00:10:21,021 --> 00:10:26,791
Of these powerful machines
is a challenge, especially
in monsoon season.
168
00:10:26,826 --> 00:10:29,761
It's raining and there
may be flooding ahead.
169
00:10:29,796 --> 00:10:32,263
(Teddy)
monsoon season can
last up to five months
170
00:10:32,398 --> 00:10:35,233
Battering rail lines
with tropical storms,
171
00:10:35,268 --> 00:10:40,238
Gale force winds
and flash floods.
172
00:10:40,273 --> 00:10:41,973
The rain is not heavy yet.
173
00:10:42,108 --> 00:10:46,344
I think we can
pass through it.
174
00:10:46,479 --> 00:10:51,616
(Teddy)
as day turns to night
the rain gets heavier.
175
00:10:51,751 --> 00:10:54,418
Train staff are
on high alert.
176
00:10:54,454 --> 00:10:59,223
But their tools are
extremely low tech.
177
00:10:59,259 --> 00:11:01,493
I'm using a flash light
to check the water level
178
00:11:01,627 --> 00:11:07,666
Along the rail to see if
the level of the water
is getting higher.
179
00:11:08,368 --> 00:11:11,235
(Teddy) when traveling across
flooded tracks, the faster the
speed,
180
00:11:11,271 --> 00:11:13,505
The higher
the water kicks up.
181
00:11:13,639 --> 00:11:15,539
If it splashes too high,
182
00:11:15,575 --> 00:11:17,541
It gets into
the traction motors.
183
00:11:17,577 --> 00:11:19,777
That can cause a short
circuit stopping the
184
00:11:19,813 --> 00:11:28,486
Motors and crippling
the entire train.
185
00:11:28,522 --> 00:11:31,355
If the water is higher
than 10 cm above the track
186
00:11:31,391 --> 00:11:37,695
We have to stop as the systems
below the train are all
electrical parts.
187
00:11:37,731 --> 00:11:39,163
(Teddy)
as water around the track
188
00:11:39,199 --> 00:11:44,101
Rises, our train
grinds to a halt.
189
00:11:44,137 --> 00:11:48,940
We're stranded in the
middle of the thai wilderness.
190
00:11:50,510 --> 00:11:55,046
♪ ♪ ♪
191
00:11:55,082 --> 00:11:58,149
(Teddy)
6 hours into my
trek across thailand
192
00:11:58,185 --> 00:12:03,088
Torrential rains have
stopped our train in its track.
193
00:12:06,292 --> 00:12:11,729
(Teddy)
causing alarm
at traffic control.
194
00:12:11,765 --> 00:12:13,664
For traffic control operations,
flooding on a scale that
195
00:12:13,700 --> 00:12:18,536
Stops the trains is one of
the biggest challenges we face.
196
00:12:18,572 --> 00:12:20,772
(Teddy)
and dispatcher phurish
has already experienced
197
00:12:20,907 --> 00:12:23,574
The worst in
thailand's history.
198
00:12:23,610 --> 00:12:26,745
In 2011 severe monsoons
washed out nearly all
199
00:12:26,879 --> 00:12:29,847
Of north and
central thailand.
200
00:12:29,883 --> 00:12:32,150
More than 85 percent of
the country was considered
201
00:12:32,185 --> 00:12:34,185
A disaster zone.
202
00:12:34,320 --> 00:12:41,626
815 people died and more
than 13 million were affected.
203
00:12:41,761 --> 00:12:48,465
It was a natural disaster
that we will all remember.
204
00:12:48,501 --> 00:12:50,701
(Teddy)
total damage to the rail lines
205
00:12:50,737 --> 00:12:57,708
Was more than 125 million
canadian dollars.
206
00:12:57,744 --> 00:13:00,311
On our trek, the rain
starts to let up and we're
207
00:13:00,347 --> 00:13:04,315
Given the go ahead
to start rolling again.
208
00:13:09,055 --> 00:13:12,323
(Teddy)
we crawl ahead
at a reduced speed.
209
00:13:12,359 --> 00:13:14,491
While the train crew
prepares for higher water
210
00:13:14,527 --> 00:13:18,629
Levels and worst
case scenarios.
211
00:13:18,665 --> 00:13:20,165
We have to stop
and coordinate with
212
00:13:20,299 --> 00:13:22,033
The station on
how to evacuate
213
00:13:22,068 --> 00:13:27,805
The passengers and
get them to their destinations.
214
00:13:27,841 --> 00:13:29,340
(Teddy)
panya is the train master.
215
00:13:29,475 --> 00:13:32,443
He supervises the entire
train and the card men
216
00:13:32,578 --> 00:13:34,846
Who work under him.
217
00:13:41,188 --> 00:13:42,920
I have to check
the tickets and give
218
00:13:42,956 --> 00:13:47,558
The signals at the station
for passengers to get
on and off.
219
00:13:47,594 --> 00:13:49,294
I have to take care of
the safety of the passengers
220
00:13:49,428 --> 00:13:54,499
And make sure
everything is in order.
221
00:13:54,634 --> 00:13:57,602
(Teddy)
we're making our way
slowly into bang saphan,
222
00:13:57,737 --> 00:14:01,439
Seven hours
south of bangkok.
223
00:14:02,809 --> 00:14:04,075
It's partway
through our trip.
224
00:14:04,110 --> 00:14:05,076
We're just coming up
to a station here,
225
00:14:05,178 --> 00:14:06,611
We're about to stop.
226
00:14:06,746 --> 00:14:08,245
(Teddy)
with passengers
227
00:14:08,281 --> 00:14:10,515
And local villagers using
the station as shelter
from the rains
228
00:14:10,650 --> 00:14:15,053
The card men's
job is complex.
229
00:14:18,892 --> 00:14:19,891
(Teddy)
and you know it's interesting,
230
00:14:19,926 --> 00:14:21,659
Travelling around
the world by train,
231
00:14:21,694 --> 00:14:23,528
It's incredible how fast
and easily we get from
232
00:14:23,663 --> 00:14:25,730
Station to station.
233
00:14:25,865 --> 00:14:29,033
To overcome language barriers
with international passengers
234
00:14:29,102 --> 00:14:34,038
Card men rely on a simple
two colour system.
235
00:14:34,173 --> 00:14:37,108
Now we're giving the red signal
for passengers to get on and
off.
236
00:14:37,210 --> 00:14:39,444
When all the passengers
have boarded, then I will
237
00:14:39,578 --> 00:14:42,880
Give the
green-light signal.
238
00:14:42,916 --> 00:14:44,749
(Teddy)
blink and you
could miss the green light
239
00:14:44,784 --> 00:14:48,920
Not to mention
the train entirely.
240
00:14:48,955 --> 00:14:49,787
We've actually got
to get back on now
241
00:14:49,822 --> 00:15:00,031
Because they're about to go.
242
00:15:00,066 --> 00:15:03,067
Not only do card men have
to worry about leaving
passengers behind
243
00:15:03,136 --> 00:15:06,437
They make sure
they're comfortable.
244
00:15:06,473 --> 00:15:11,809
Hello, sawadeekrap.
Do you have number?
245
00:15:11,844 --> 00:15:12,977
29 kriang, you have
now sleeping now little?
246
00:15:13,112 --> 00:15:13,811
Oh, yes, yes.
Perfect, great.
247
00:15:13,847 --> 00:15:17,047
Thanks a lot.
248
00:15:17,083 --> 00:15:19,083
There it is.
249
00:15:19,152 --> 00:15:25,056
(Teddy)
each berth has a top fold
down bunk and a lower one.
250
00:15:25,091 --> 00:15:27,792
It's got a curtain
and everything for privacy.
251
00:15:27,927 --> 00:15:29,794
(Teddy)
these sleeper seats
are a great option on late
252
00:15:29,929 --> 00:15:33,097
And overnight trips
for travellers like alan,
253
00:15:33,166 --> 00:15:36,467
An american ex-pat who does
business throughout thailand.
254
00:15:36,602 --> 00:15:38,836
When I'm in country,
I only take the train.
255
00:15:38,871 --> 00:15:40,271
I just take,
travel on the train.
256
00:15:40,307 --> 00:15:41,706
So, I get to where I'm
going, I'm all refreshed.
257
00:15:41,841 --> 00:15:44,208
I've had a nice,
relaxing afternoon-evening,
258
00:15:44,343 --> 00:15:46,477
Do a little work or just hang
out, get up in the morning
259
00:15:46,513 --> 00:15:49,714
Ready to go when
I get to my spot.
260
00:15:49,849 --> 00:15:52,350
(Teddy)
more adventurous or
budget-minded passengers
261
00:15:52,485 --> 00:15:55,086
Do what they can to sleep
but I prefer something
262
00:15:55,121 --> 00:15:58,355
With a little more
room to stretch out.
263
00:15:58,391 --> 00:15:59,790
Not bad.
264
00:15:59,826 --> 00:16:06,030
Alright, time for bed.
265
00:16:06,165 --> 00:16:08,599
After a good night's sleep,
we're stopping in the beach
266
00:16:08,634 --> 00:16:17,342
Town of hua hin
to switch trains.
267
00:16:17,476 --> 00:16:21,946
Yeah,
we'll go right in.
268
00:16:21,982 --> 00:16:28,085
Our new driver,
banjert is behind the wheel.
269
00:16:28,121 --> 00:16:31,222
This is a
regular rural train.
270
00:16:31,257 --> 00:16:40,164
We have to stop to let
passengers on and off
at each station.
271
00:16:40,266 --> 00:16:43,200
(Teddy)
one of those passengers
is ham, a local blogger
272
00:16:43,236 --> 00:16:47,372
Who's offered to fill me
in the history of thai trains.
273
00:16:47,506 --> 00:16:49,940
How difficult was it to
build a railway system here?
274
00:16:49,976 --> 00:16:53,244
In the past it was
very hard because we don't
275
00:16:53,279 --> 00:16:55,112
Have any the technology
like present day.
276
00:16:55,148 --> 00:16:56,814
Yeah.
277
00:16:56,849 --> 00:16:58,549
(Teddy)
in the late 19th century,
278
00:16:58,585 --> 00:17:03,921
King rama the fifth wanted to
unite the country with a
national rail line.
279
00:17:03,923 --> 00:17:05,456
Progress was slow.
280
00:17:05,492 --> 00:17:07,424
In the first five years,
they only managed to lay
281
00:17:07,460 --> 00:17:10,094
74 kilometers of rail.
282
00:17:10,229 --> 00:17:13,730
About 18
kilometers a year.
283
00:17:13,766 --> 00:17:17,268
Today, the train is
one of the most popular
284
00:17:17,370 --> 00:17:19,504
Ways to travel
through thailand.
285
00:17:19,638 --> 00:17:23,007
Maintaining the lines
is a top priority.
286
00:17:23,043 --> 00:17:29,013
So ham, how much maintenance is
required to keep this track
operating well?
287
00:17:29,049 --> 00:17:31,648
Rehabilitation,
track straightening,
288
00:17:31,684 --> 00:17:34,985
Change the sleeper from
the wooden to the concrete.
289
00:17:35,021 --> 00:17:38,055
Put more ballast,
change the new rail.
290
00:17:38,091 --> 00:17:41,526
And then daily maintenance
before the train coming.
291
00:17:41,660 --> 00:17:43,828
So I mean, crews are
always working on this
292
00:17:43,963 --> 00:17:44,795
On these
tracks right?
293
00:17:44,831 --> 00:17:46,363
Yes, yes.
294
00:17:46,399 --> 00:17:48,432
(Teddy)
to improve the current
system the thai government
295
00:17:48,468 --> 00:17:52,170
Is spending billions
of dollars on new infrastructure
296
00:17:52,304 --> 00:17:55,406
So they can
run more trains, faster.
297
00:17:55,442 --> 00:18:04,615
The first priority is
doubling up the track.
298
00:18:04,650 --> 00:18:07,118
This is a mobile
flash butt welder.
299
00:18:07,153 --> 00:18:10,888
This is the only
machine in thailand
300
00:18:11,023 --> 00:18:11,889
The only mobile flash
butt welder in thailand.
301
00:18:11,924 --> 00:18:13,124
(Teddy)
john sexton is a welding
302
00:18:13,259 --> 00:18:16,461
Specialist laying down
thailand's double track.
303
00:18:16,595 --> 00:18:19,030
Other projects, they
weld the rail in the yard.
304
00:18:19,165 --> 00:18:21,866
This one, we can just
drop 25-meter rail
305
00:18:22,001 --> 00:18:25,303
And continuously weld it.
306
00:18:25,371 --> 00:18:27,838
The first step is up there
where we grind the rail.
307
00:18:27,874 --> 00:18:30,507
That's to give it good
electrical contact.
308
00:18:30,543 --> 00:18:33,778
Then we come here,
we set up the rail.
309
00:18:33,913 --> 00:18:36,547
Give it a little slight
pick up, about of a mil.
310
00:18:36,583 --> 00:18:37,782
Then drop the head on it.
311
00:18:37,917 --> 00:18:38,749
And close the head.
312
00:18:38,785 --> 00:18:42,052
Then it starts welding.
313
00:18:42,088 --> 00:18:44,255
It sends electrical
current to each rail
314
00:18:44,290 --> 00:18:45,956
One negative,
one positive.
315
00:18:45,992 --> 00:18:50,127
And it causes an arc,
and heats the rail up.
316
00:18:50,163 --> 00:18:52,396
It gets over 13 hundred
degrees celsius,
317
00:18:52,531 --> 00:18:54,665
And then when it gets to
that melting point it just
318
00:18:54,767 --> 00:18:57,668
Pushes two rails together
at high pressure and fuses them
319
00:18:57,704 --> 00:19:00,304
Forges them together.
320
00:19:00,439 --> 00:19:02,573
(Teddy)
upset or excess
metal is then trimmed off
321
00:19:02,609 --> 00:19:05,142
And given time to cool down.
322
00:19:05,178 --> 00:19:06,977
Yeah, if you put your hand
near the rail it would melt.
323
00:19:07,013 --> 00:19:08,279
It's so hot.
324
00:19:08,314 --> 00:19:11,149
It doesn't cool down for
about at least an hour after.
325
00:19:11,283 --> 00:19:12,517
(Teddy)
using this method,
326
00:19:12,651 --> 00:19:16,854
They can typically run 1.5
kilometers of rail per day.
327
00:19:16,890 --> 00:19:18,789
Even at that speed it
would take a minimum
328
00:19:18,825 --> 00:19:27,932
Of 7 years to get dual track
laid across the entire country.
329
00:19:27,967 --> 00:19:31,402
There are over 100 derailments
a year in thailand,
330
00:19:31,437 --> 00:19:33,804
Mostly
due to damaged rail.
331
00:19:33,840 --> 00:19:41,145
Existing tracks are checked
by permanent way inspectors.
332
00:19:41,280 --> 00:19:43,447
We are inspecting the track
surface that has scratches.
333
00:19:43,582 --> 00:19:46,217
We will ask the maintenance team
to polish the track surface
334
00:19:46,252 --> 00:19:53,724
Back to its original profile.
335
00:19:53,760 --> 00:19:57,261
(Teddy) just as tracks are
smoothed out, the train wheels
are polished
336
00:19:57,396 --> 00:20:02,599
At the makkasan
maintenance depot.
337
00:20:02,635 --> 00:20:04,801
If the wheels
were not changed and reprofiled,
338
00:20:04,837 --> 00:20:08,805
It would create grooves on the
rails and cause accelerated wear
on the wheels.
339
00:20:08,841 --> 00:20:18,915
It could cause the wheels to
break and cause severe safety
issues.
340
00:20:18,951 --> 00:20:21,652
(Teddy)
the computerized lathe is
so accurate it profiles
341
00:20:21,688 --> 00:20:26,891
Wheels to the correct
diameter within 0.15 millimeters
342
00:20:27,026 --> 00:20:32,863
Essentially the thickness
of two pieces of paper.
343
00:20:32,898 --> 00:20:36,433
At full efficiency, this machine
can process 24 wheel-axles a
day,
344
00:20:36,469 --> 00:20:42,806
Which means about 480 a month.
345
00:20:42,842 --> 00:20:45,175
(Teddy)
they do such a good
job that it's been smooth
346
00:20:45,211 --> 00:20:49,480
Running on our train.
347
00:20:49,582 --> 00:20:54,051
(Teddy)
but as we get closer to
bangkok, that could all change!
348
00:20:57,122 --> 00:21:00,324
I've never seen
anything like this.
349
00:21:01,361 --> 00:21:05,863
♪ ♪ ♪
350
00:21:05,898 --> 00:21:09,099
(Teddy) I'm on a once in a
lifetime train journey through
thailand.
351
00:21:09,135 --> 00:21:11,068
Just outside the
capital city of bangkok,
352
00:21:11,203 --> 00:21:14,772
We're about to go over
the rama six bridge.
353
00:21:14,907 --> 00:21:19,710
Originally built in 1922
during the reign of the
6th monarch of siam
354
00:21:19,745 --> 00:21:23,881
The 441 meter railway bridge
was rebuilt after it was bombed
355
00:21:24,016 --> 00:21:26,250
By the u.S.
In world war two.
356
00:21:26,385 --> 00:21:27,417
Cool yeah.
357
00:21:27,453 --> 00:21:28,386
We're coming up
on it right now.
358
00:21:28,520 --> 00:21:30,554
Yes.
359
00:21:30,590 --> 00:21:32,556
This bridge connect
between northern line
360
00:21:32,592 --> 00:21:35,392
And southern line together.
361
00:21:35,428 --> 00:21:36,727
(Teddy)
bangkok is one of the
362
00:21:36,762 --> 00:21:39,096
Most visited cities
in the in the word.
363
00:21:39,231 --> 00:21:44,068
More tourists come here
than london, paris,
new york or dubai.
364
00:21:44,103 --> 00:21:45,269
It was great riding
the rails with you, ham.
365
00:21:45,305 --> 00:21:46,336
Yes.
366
00:21:46,372 --> 00:21:47,571
Welcome to bangkok,
you will love it.
367
00:21:47,607 --> 00:21:48,372
Yeah, I'm excited
to check it out.
368
00:21:48,474 --> 00:21:49,439
Thank you, man.
369
00:21:49,475 --> 00:21:52,209
Bye-bye.
370
00:21:52,244 --> 00:21:56,079
(Teddy)
bangkok is famous for
street food and outdoor markets
371
00:21:56,115 --> 00:21:58,516
And I've found a place
that's the best of both.
372
00:22:00,786 --> 00:22:02,652
Talad rod fai market
translates to 'train market',
373
00:22:02,688 --> 00:22:05,555
Because the original location
years ago was right between two
train stations.
374
00:22:05,591 --> 00:22:06,724
This is the new spot,
it's a little further
375
00:22:06,859 --> 00:22:09,126
From the trains,
but they kept the name.
376
00:22:09,261 --> 00:22:11,995
And the big selling
point here is the food.
377
00:22:12,031 --> 00:22:19,002
Lots of local thai delicacies
and I'm gonna dig into some.
378
00:22:19,038 --> 00:22:21,405
What is that?
Squid?
379
00:22:21,540 --> 00:22:26,243
It's a big squid.
380
00:22:26,279 --> 00:22:28,112
What is this here?
381
00:22:28,147 --> 00:22:29,413
This one
is silk worm.
382
00:22:29,449 --> 00:22:31,649
Silk worm.
383
00:22:31,784 --> 00:22:32,350
What is this?
384
00:22:32,418 --> 00:22:33,784
Crickets?
385
00:22:33,919 --> 00:22:35,085
This one
is grasshopper.
386
00:22:35,121 --> 00:22:35,819
Grasshopper?
387
00:22:35,855 --> 00:22:37,788
Oh, yeah,
388
00:22:37,823 --> 00:22:39,022
This is a
bamboo worm.
389
00:22:39,058 --> 00:22:40,391
Bamboo worm?
390
00:22:40,426 --> 00:22:41,459
Yes.
391
00:22:41,593 --> 00:22:42,226
Can I see
the scorpion?
392
00:22:42,261 --> 00:22:43,327
Of course, yes.
393
00:22:43,363 --> 00:22:45,429
Whoah!
394
00:22:45,465 --> 00:22:46,330
Put it...
395
00:22:46,465 --> 00:22:48,132
Sleep.
396
00:22:48,167 --> 00:22:51,902
So, what does it taste like
when it's fully cooked?
397
00:22:51,938 --> 00:22:52,936
Ah, surprise.
398
00:22:52,972 --> 00:22:54,271
Surprise?
399
00:22:54,406 --> 00:22:55,305
You have to eat.
400
00:22:55,341 --> 00:22:56,207
Surprise, okay.
401
00:22:56,341 --> 00:22:58,676
Alright, surprise.
402
00:22:58,811 --> 00:22:59,743
Okay,
here we go...
403
00:22:59,779 --> 00:23:06,049
Hi buddy.
404
00:23:06,085 --> 00:23:10,320
It's really good,
it's really well seasoned.
405
00:23:10,356 --> 00:23:12,456
It's very nice.
406
00:23:12,492 --> 00:23:17,762
Yeah it's great,
it's really good!
407
00:23:17,896 --> 00:23:19,629
This market is awesome.
408
00:23:19,665 --> 00:23:21,499
There's a great energy here,
it's so full of life.
409
00:23:21,633 --> 00:23:25,235
It's great.
410
00:23:25,271 --> 00:23:26,336
(Teddy)
with a tasty meal
411
00:23:26,372 --> 00:23:28,939
And a good night's
sleep under my belt,
412
00:23:28,974 --> 00:23:32,642
I'm at thonburi
station in bangkok.
413
00:23:32,645 --> 00:23:33,977
This excursion
train will take me
414
00:23:34,013 --> 00:23:38,916
111 kilometers west
to the village of kanchanaburi.
415
00:23:39,051 --> 00:23:42,520
There a section of the
original thai burma railway
416
00:23:42,654 --> 00:23:47,224
Still runs on the shores
of the kwai river.
417
00:23:47,359 --> 00:23:48,959
Coming up to a part
of the railway that's
418
00:23:48,994 --> 00:23:52,463
Steeped in history and
it's a real brutal history.
419
00:23:52,532 --> 00:23:55,298
During their occupation
of thailand in world war 2,
420
00:23:55,334 --> 00:23:59,769
Japan forced allied p.O.W.'s
and civilian workers to build
421
00:23:59,805 --> 00:24:05,209
A 415 kilometer long
rail line over 600 bridges
422
00:24:05,244 --> 00:24:09,313
And along dangerous
rock faces.
423
00:24:09,348 --> 00:24:11,114
So many prisoners
of war and forced labourers
424
00:24:11,150 --> 00:24:13,984
Died constructing this part of
the track that it's known
425
00:24:14,019 --> 00:24:19,089
As the 'death railway'.
426
00:24:19,124 --> 00:24:21,258
To many prisoners
had lost their life here,
427
00:24:21,393 --> 00:24:26,096
One life
for each wooden sleeper.
428
00:24:26,231 --> 00:24:27,598
(Teddy)
I'm meeting angmo,
429
00:24:27,733 --> 00:24:29,199
A local guide,
to learn more about
430
00:24:29,235 --> 00:24:30,968
The history of
the death railway.
431
00:24:31,103 --> 00:24:33,603
Tell me about the conditions
of these p.O.W.'s
432
00:24:33,639 --> 00:24:35,305
And forced labourers were
working under while they
433
00:24:35,341 --> 00:24:38,342
Were constructing this.
434
00:24:38,377 --> 00:24:41,078
Yeah. They died
because of many ways,
435
00:24:41,213 --> 00:24:42,746
They died because of
no food enough, no drink,
436
00:24:42,782 --> 00:24:45,215
No medical care.
437
00:24:45,251 --> 00:24:49,186
They have to work hard,
overload, at least 16 hours a
day.
438
00:24:49,321 --> 00:24:52,822
Most of them died because
of disease and they're weak.
439
00:24:52,858 --> 00:24:56,059
The japanese forced
them to work too much.
440
00:24:56,095 --> 00:24:57,427
(Teddy)
in sweltering temperatures
441
00:24:57,463 --> 00:25:00,564
Workers were forced to do
6 years-worth of construction
442
00:25:00,666 --> 00:25:02,666
In only 15 months.
443
00:25:02,702 --> 00:25:05,636
Hundreds of workers
died every day.
444
00:25:05,671 --> 00:25:12,810
More than a hundred
thousand perished in all.
445
00:25:12,945 --> 00:25:14,512
(Teddy)
passengers from all
over the world get off
446
00:25:14,580 --> 00:25:20,618
The train at the infamous
bridge on the river kwai
to pay their respects.
447
00:25:20,752 --> 00:25:23,721
Why is it so important to come
here and bear witness to history
448
00:25:23,789 --> 00:25:25,890
And find out about
what happened here?
449
00:25:26,024 --> 00:25:28,592
All of the people who died
along the death railway
450
00:25:28,628 --> 00:25:30,160
They are our heroes.
451
00:25:30,196 --> 00:25:33,731
We respect them a lot.
452
00:25:33,799 --> 00:25:35,533
We came here today to leave
453
00:25:35,667 --> 00:25:38,035
A cross in remembrance
of an ancestor of mine.
454
00:25:38,170 --> 00:25:41,805
My grandma's brother.
455
00:25:41,940 --> 00:25:45,776
He died working
on the railway.
456
00:25:45,911 --> 00:25:47,210
You know I come
from a military family,
457
00:25:47,246 --> 00:25:49,479
Both of my grandfathers
fought in the second world war.
458
00:25:49,515 --> 00:25:51,915
I've wanted to see this
my whole life and actually
459
00:25:51,951 --> 00:25:55,852
Being here, seeing it
physically there, is
really something.
460
00:25:55,888 --> 00:25:56,954
(Teddy)
leaving kanchanaburi,
461
00:25:57,089 --> 00:25:59,356
We're heading east
back towards bangkok.
462
00:25:59,491 --> 00:26:01,891
We'll stop at a busy
market that the train
463
00:26:01,894 --> 00:26:05,229
Drives right through
4 times a day!
464
00:26:18,143 --> 00:26:20,778
Look at everybody
lined up to get photos.
465
00:26:20,912 --> 00:26:22,746
Just a minute ago this was
an active bustling market
466
00:26:22,782 --> 00:26:26,383
And now there's a literally
a train going through it!
467
00:26:26,518 --> 00:26:28,552
(Teddy)
located at the mouth
of the mae klong river,
468
00:26:28,588 --> 00:26:33,557
The market opened over
one hundred years ago.
469
00:26:33,593 --> 00:26:36,226
In 1907 the rail way laid
a track straight down
470
00:26:36,361 --> 00:26:38,928
The middle of the market.
471
00:26:38,964 --> 00:26:41,198
Vendors refused to move
their stalls, they've
472
00:26:41,333 --> 00:26:53,043
Been sharing the
space ever since.
473
00:26:53,078 --> 00:26:55,779
The locals know
this market as talla rom hoop
474
00:26:55,815 --> 00:26:57,781
Which means
'umbrella pull down market'
475
00:26:57,817 --> 00:27:00,083
You can see there are
these umbrellas everywhere.
476
00:27:00,119 --> 00:27:02,086
And they're down now,
but really shortly when
477
00:27:02,220 --> 00:27:07,524
The train comes through
they'll all have to
be pulled up.
478
00:27:07,659 --> 00:27:09,959
When I hear the horn,
I will pull the table close,
479
00:27:09,995 --> 00:27:15,032
As well as
the awning above my head.
480
00:27:15,167 --> 00:27:23,140
Just wonder how they move so
fast from before the train
coming, you know.
481
00:27:23,275 --> 00:27:24,942
Looks dangerous to me.
482
00:27:25,077 --> 00:27:27,310
(Teddy)
cho is a mainstay
at the market.
483
00:27:27,346 --> 00:27:30,414
Her family has had a stall
here for over 30 years.
484
00:27:30,449 --> 00:27:34,284
And she wouldn't want
to be anywhere else.
485
00:27:34,319 --> 00:27:35,753
For vendors, it is
not dangerous at all
486
00:27:35,854 --> 00:27:37,454
Because we know
the schedule.
487
00:27:37,589 --> 00:27:40,023
As for tourists,
all the vendors help them.
488
00:27:40,059 --> 00:27:42,660
When the train is arriving,
we tell them come inside,
489
00:27:42,728 --> 00:27:48,966
That it is dangerous.
490
00:27:49,101 --> 00:27:50,067
There it is,
the train is coming.
491
00:27:50,202 --> 00:27:51,801
Most of the
umbrellas have gone up.
492
00:27:51,837 --> 00:27:54,438
The last few are going,
and the train is right here.
493
00:27:54,573 --> 00:27:58,575
We've got to get off
the tracks in just a second.
494
00:27:58,610 --> 00:28:00,543
Okay we gotta get off.
495
00:28:00,579 --> 00:28:09,352
Come in, come in!
496
00:28:09,388 --> 00:28:13,857
Hi!
Hive five!
497
00:28:13,893 --> 00:28:14,992
So here we go.
498
00:28:15,127 --> 00:28:16,860
The train has passed
and as you can see the
499
00:28:16,896 --> 00:28:18,462
Umbrella's are
already back down.
500
00:28:18,497 --> 00:28:20,764
It literally took five
seconds for them to turn
501
00:28:20,866 --> 00:28:22,699
It back into
a marketplace.
502
00:28:22,735 --> 00:28:23,801
There's tourist's
everywhere.
503
00:28:23,935 --> 00:28:26,703
It's really
chaotic but awesome.
504
00:28:26,739 --> 00:28:27,771
(Teddy)
the bustling market
505
00:28:27,807 --> 00:28:31,141
Carries on with
business as usual...
506
00:28:31,176 --> 00:28:33,410
Back on the train
nearing bangkok,
507
00:28:33,545 --> 00:28:37,915
Road traffic is
really picking up.
508
00:28:38,049 --> 00:28:41,351
Traffic on thai roads
is notoriously dangerous.
509
00:28:41,386 --> 00:28:43,987
When those roads
cross train tracks
510
00:28:44,022 --> 00:28:47,791
Things can turn deadly.
511
00:28:48,828 --> 00:28:53,297
♪ ♪ ♪
512
00:28:53,431 --> 00:28:55,765
I'm on a train trek
through thailand,
513
00:28:55,801 --> 00:28:59,335
Heading to the northern
city of chiang mai.
514
00:28:59,371 --> 00:29:01,171
Anyone travelling
from bangkok to chiang mai
515
00:29:01,207 --> 00:29:03,106
By train has to
come through here,
516
00:29:03,142 --> 00:29:05,208
Hua lamphong railway station.
517
00:29:05,244 --> 00:29:07,845
The heart of thailand's
rail system, hua lamphong
518
00:29:07,979 --> 00:29:10,047
Took six years to build.
519
00:29:10,182 --> 00:29:14,584
With 14 platforms it's the
main hub for travellers
and commuters.
520
00:29:14,620 --> 00:29:16,920
It's over a century old
and over sixty thousand people
521
00:29:16,956 --> 00:29:20,257
Use this station every day.
522
00:29:20,292 --> 00:29:22,359
Here, supplies are loaded
in and drivers give
523
00:29:22,494 --> 00:29:30,934
The trains
a thorough inspection.
524
00:29:30,970 --> 00:29:32,702
I am checking the brakes.
525
00:29:32,738 --> 00:29:37,307
The brake shoe should
not contact with the wheel.
526
00:29:37,343 --> 00:29:41,278
(Teddy)
our driver
mongkol finds a problem.
527
00:29:41,413 --> 00:29:45,748
The brake should
retract and release.
528
00:29:45,784 --> 00:29:53,891
Normally the air from
the locomotive should reach
529
00:29:54,025 --> 00:29:55,091
The last bogey
with full pressure.
530
00:29:55,127 --> 00:29:56,293
The breaks are
activated by air pressure,
531
00:29:56,428 --> 00:29:58,428
And that pressure is being
lost somewhere between
532
00:29:58,463 --> 00:30:01,965
The locomotive and
the last carriage.
533
00:30:02,001 --> 00:30:06,269
(mongkol on radio)
534
00:30:06,305 --> 00:30:08,205
(Teddy)
drivers work as train mechanics
535
00:30:08,340 --> 00:30:11,474
For 7 years before
getting behind the wheel.
536
00:30:11,510 --> 00:30:13,543
Mongkol relies on his
technical background
537
00:30:13,579 --> 00:30:19,716
To find the culprit,
a faulty air hose.
538
00:30:19,851 --> 00:30:22,552
If we depart without fixing it
and it broke down on the way,
539
00:30:22,588 --> 00:30:25,388
We have no technician
or parts to fix it.
540
00:30:25,424 --> 00:30:36,199
So, we will replace it.
541
00:30:36,235 --> 00:30:39,202
The valve is replaced and the
brakes are now working properly.
542
00:30:39,238 --> 00:30:45,375
We didn't lose
too much time.
543
00:30:45,410 --> 00:30:46,743
(Teddy)
after a 30 minute delay,
544
00:30:46,845 --> 00:30:50,413
Our train out of bangkok
is ready to depart.
545
00:30:50,449 --> 00:31:05,094
All right, here we go,
headed north to chiang mai.
546
00:31:05,130 --> 00:31:07,931
(Teddy)
we're heading through thailand's
547
00:31:08,033 --> 00:31:10,033
Central plains and
onto the city of lopburi.
548
00:31:10,069 --> 00:31:12,269
From there we'll travel
into the thai highlands to
549
00:31:12,404 --> 00:31:18,341
The ancient city
of chiang mai.
550
00:31:18,377 --> 00:31:23,112
But first, we've got
to get out of bangkok.
551
00:31:23,148 --> 00:31:26,083
Travelling in the bangkok area
you need to be very careful
552
00:31:26,217 --> 00:31:30,119
Everywhere because
it's very populated.
553
00:31:30,155 --> 00:31:33,957
(Teddy) the greater bangkok area
is home to almost 15 million
people.
554
00:31:34,026 --> 00:31:37,861
And they aren't shy about
taking shortcuts over
the tracks.
555
00:31:37,897 --> 00:31:39,829
We have to be very careful.
556
00:31:39,865 --> 00:31:44,834
We have to be aware of
the people and the cars.
557
00:31:44,870 --> 00:31:46,970
(Teddy)
in April 2016,
at a road crossing close
558
00:31:47,105 --> 00:31:52,409
To bangkok, a tour bus crossed
the tracks in front of a train.
559
00:31:52,544 --> 00:31:54,811
The train couldn't
stop in time.
560
00:31:54,847 --> 00:31:59,917
The collision killed three
people and injured thirty.
561
00:31:59,985 --> 00:32:01,284
(Teddy)
thailand's state railway
562
00:32:01,320 --> 00:32:04,554
Is working to install barriers
and warning signals at
563
00:32:04,689 --> 00:32:08,391
Six hundred unprotected
crossings in the country.
564
00:32:08,427 --> 00:32:10,827
Until that happens,
drivers reduce their speed
565
00:32:10,863 --> 00:32:15,498
To focus on safety.
566
00:32:15,534 --> 00:32:17,935
There are lots
of people everywhere.
567
00:32:18,003 --> 00:32:19,969
I have to blow the horn
and turn on my headlights
568
00:32:20,005 --> 00:32:26,309
Because they may not
be paying attention.
569
00:32:26,345 --> 00:32:27,778
We're just leaving
bangkok and soon this
570
00:32:27,912 --> 00:32:31,381
Is going to change to
some spectacular scenery.
571
00:32:31,416 --> 00:32:33,416
(Teddy)
heading north of bangkok,
572
00:32:33,452 --> 00:32:35,685
We're entering into the central
flood plains that surround
573
00:32:35,721 --> 00:32:40,189
Thailand's major river,
chao phraya.
574
00:32:40,225 --> 00:32:43,060
All this really lush
green foliage and scenery.
575
00:32:43,194 --> 00:32:45,629
It's totally different
576
00:32:45,764 --> 00:32:48,598
The soil here is made up
nutrient rich sediment
577
00:32:48,633 --> 00:32:50,733
Deposited by the river.
578
00:32:50,769 --> 00:33:01,778
Crops such as rice, sugar cane,
and tapioca thrive here.
579
00:33:01,813 --> 00:33:04,313
(Teddy)
near khon kaen a 40
person construction crew
580
00:33:04,349 --> 00:33:09,419
Is working on a
new section of track.
581
00:33:09,454 --> 00:33:11,521
The railway normally
runs through the village,
582
00:33:11,556 --> 00:33:14,057
And for this section
people in this area want
583
00:33:14,093 --> 00:33:17,361
To preserve
their way of living.
584
00:33:17,495 --> 00:33:20,097
(Teddy)
to protect farm land
they've built a concrete bridge
585
00:33:20,231 --> 00:33:25,935
Two and a half kilometers long
and 3 storeys high to elevate
the rails.
586
00:33:25,971 --> 00:33:29,206
The project itself is very,
very challenging in
many aspects.
587
00:33:29,340 --> 00:33:31,508
The track itself is same,
but you need to have
588
00:33:31,543 --> 00:33:32,842
A very rigid support.
589
00:33:32,878 --> 00:33:35,478
And that's why they have
to have a special support
590
00:33:35,514 --> 00:33:38,848
At the fastener
of the rail.
591
00:33:38,884 --> 00:33:43,352
Ballast absorb vibrations
of the track.
592
00:33:43,388 --> 00:33:45,322
But on the bridge,
concrete sleepers
593
00:33:45,457 --> 00:33:48,191
And support
have zero flex.
594
00:33:48,227 --> 00:33:50,693
So special spring arms
and underpads are used
595
00:33:50,729 --> 00:33:52,929
To add elasticity.
596
00:33:53,064 --> 00:33:56,133
Vibrations are asorbed
back into the rail to
597
00:33:56,267 --> 00:33:57,601
Prevent the concrete
from cracking
598
00:33:57,735 --> 00:34:02,906
And weakening
the entire system.
599
00:34:02,941 --> 00:34:04,741
We need to
continue the pouring.
600
00:34:04,876 --> 00:34:07,044
It's very important,
if the machine is stopped
601
00:34:07,178 --> 00:34:11,047
Or it gets stuck now it's
gonna create, dry the concrete.
602
00:34:11,083 --> 00:34:12,515
(Teddy)
the temperature in
thailand can climb to
603
00:34:12,551 --> 00:34:18,287
40 degrees celsius, so
concrete dries incredibly fast.
604
00:34:18,323 --> 00:34:21,190
We have to dry and clean it up
before the concrete gets dry.
605
00:34:21,226 --> 00:34:26,129
After the concrete's dry
you will see the result
is right here.
606
00:34:26,231 --> 00:34:30,500
This is the future of
the railway in thailand.
607
00:34:30,535 --> 00:34:33,336
(Teddy)
140 kilometers north of bangkok,
608
00:34:33,438 --> 00:34:35,806
I'm making a stop in lopburi.
609
00:34:35,940 --> 00:34:40,309
It's a small village that's
over a thousand years old.
610
00:34:40,345 --> 00:34:42,812
I'm really excited
to be here and heading
611
00:34:42,848 --> 00:34:44,514
To the prang sam yod temple.
612
00:34:44,549 --> 00:34:47,250
It's a place where thieves,
gluttons and beggers have taken
over.
613
00:34:47,286 --> 00:34:51,555
But nobody seems to really
mind because they're monkeys.
614
00:34:51,689 --> 00:34:56,259
This ancient ruin is known as
'the monkey temple' for good
reason.
615
00:34:56,295 --> 00:35:00,163
Hey, oh
oh okay, alright.
616
00:35:00,265 --> 00:35:02,399
Macque monkeys are
all over thailand.
617
00:35:02,534 --> 00:35:04,301
There are more than
twenty five hundred
618
00:35:04,435 --> 00:35:06,435
In and around lopburi.
619
00:35:06,471 --> 00:35:08,538
The more social of the
bunch have made their home
620
00:35:08,573 --> 00:35:12,074
At a hindu buddist temple
in the center of town.
621
00:35:12,110 --> 00:35:17,046
The monkeys scavenge food
from residents and tourists.
622
00:35:17,082 --> 00:35:18,982
They're
really naughty.
623
00:35:19,117 --> 00:35:20,717
They like you.
624
00:35:20,852 --> 00:35:21,951
Oh he got them.
625
00:35:21,987 --> 00:35:23,386
Uh oh.
626
00:35:23,422 --> 00:35:25,055
Hi, I don't know if I
have anything for you.
627
00:35:25,157 --> 00:35:25,922
Okay, alright.
628
00:35:25,957 --> 00:35:27,056
So this is common.
629
00:35:27,092 --> 00:35:28,291
Okay, alright!
630
00:35:28,327 --> 00:35:30,293
Monkeys everywhere.
631
00:35:30,329 --> 00:35:31,460
It's incredible
that the train is just
632
00:35:31,463 --> 00:35:33,830
Steps away from this
beautiful iconic temple.
633
00:35:33,866 --> 00:35:35,132
I mean it couldn't be
easier to get here
634
00:35:35,266 --> 00:35:36,933
And see the sights.
635
00:35:37,068 --> 00:35:38,235
(Teddy)
being close to the tracks helps
636
00:35:38,369 --> 00:35:40,837
Bring tourists but train's
vibrations have damaged
637
00:35:40,972 --> 00:35:46,108
The 800 year old temple.
638
00:35:46,144 --> 00:35:48,377
So chat, from thailand's
department of fine arts
639
00:35:48,413 --> 00:35:50,380
Worked with engineers
to figure out a way to
640
00:35:50,482 --> 00:35:55,919
Prevent it from crumbling.
641
00:35:55,954 --> 00:35:59,755
It was necessary to dig out
the base and fill it
with concrete.
642
00:35:59,791 --> 00:36:01,858
Then to make the pagoda
strong they reinforced it
643
00:36:01,894 --> 00:36:12,268
With steel and concrete.
644
00:36:12,271 --> 00:36:13,703
(Teddy)
well, it's a really
fascinating place
645
00:36:13,738 --> 00:36:15,304
But I'm really glad that
experts are working to
646
00:36:15,340 --> 00:36:16,473
Protect the temple so
these monkeys have a home
647
00:36:16,608 --> 00:36:24,381
For another
thousand years.
648
00:36:24,515 --> 00:36:26,616
(Teddy)
I'm back to my journey
north but the most
649
00:36:26,651 --> 00:36:32,856
Treacherous part
is still to come.
650
00:36:34,493 --> 00:36:38,661
♪ ♪ ♪
651
00:36:38,697 --> 00:36:40,963
(Teddy)
on my train trek across
652
00:36:40,999 --> 00:36:44,000
Thailand we're in the foothills
of the himalayas, 200 kilometers
653
00:36:44,135 --> 00:36:48,104
South of my final
destination, chiang mai.
654
00:36:48,239 --> 00:36:49,406
From up here in
the locomotive,
655
00:36:49,540 --> 00:36:50,941
You can really see that
the landscape has changed.
656
00:36:51,042 --> 00:36:54,277
We're getting into the mountains
as we approach chiang mai.
657
00:36:54,313 --> 00:36:57,380
Mist and fog are common
here as warm air from
658
00:36:57,416 --> 00:37:04,053
The plains meets the cool
air of the mountains.
659
00:37:04,089 --> 00:37:05,955
If it's raining and foggy
the track will be slippery
660
00:37:05,991 --> 00:37:12,795
And the train will
start to sway.
661
00:37:12,831 --> 00:37:14,531
(Teddy)
not something you want to
662
00:37:14,666 --> 00:37:19,135
Happen on narrow bridges
over deep ravines.
663
00:37:19,170 --> 00:37:20,469
You've just got
to hold your breath
664
00:37:20,505 --> 00:37:24,573
And cross your fingers
and yeah, you get through it.
665
00:37:24,609 --> 00:37:25,809
(Teddy)
passing through the mountains
666
00:37:25,943 --> 00:37:33,950
The elevation increases
over 600 meters.
667
00:37:34,085 --> 00:37:36,385
It's very steep.
668
00:37:36,421 --> 00:37:39,155
(Teddy)
too steep to climb
in one straight shot.
669
00:37:39,190 --> 00:37:41,558
So the train runs on a
series of curved tracks
670
00:37:41,693 --> 00:37:44,794
To scale the
mountain gradually.
671
00:37:44,829 --> 00:37:56,205
That is until we
get to lampang station.
672
00:37:56,208 --> 00:37:57,574
We've stopped here
and the reason is that
673
00:37:57,709 --> 00:38:05,348
They have to add
a second loco.
674
00:38:05,384 --> 00:38:07,016
They need to
double our pulling power
675
00:38:07,052 --> 00:38:16,593
Because they're really
going to need it.
676
00:38:16,662 --> 00:38:18,928
The second loco brings
our horse power to up to
677
00:38:19,063 --> 00:38:21,898
A whopping forty eight hundred.
678
00:38:22,033 --> 00:38:26,102
You can feel it!
679
00:38:26,237 --> 00:38:27,604
We have to use
all our experience,
680
00:38:27,739 --> 00:38:35,845
Expertise and technique to
get us through these mountains.
681
00:38:35,880 --> 00:38:39,682
(Teddy)
but the extra locomotive
has it's draw backs.
682
00:38:39,718 --> 00:38:42,652
The slope of this
mountainside is so severe
683
00:38:42,688 --> 00:38:45,254
And the trains so heavy
that the rails and
684
00:38:45,257 --> 00:38:48,725
Ground below
constantly shift.
685
00:38:48,760 --> 00:38:50,927
With each passing train
the tracks start to slant
686
00:38:51,062 --> 00:38:53,396
More and more downhill.
687
00:38:53,398 --> 00:38:56,099
If it gets bad enough
the train could tip off
688
00:38:56,134 --> 00:38:59,268
The tracks and derail.
689
00:38:59,304 --> 00:39:02,539
This part of the line has
been plagued by accidents.
690
00:39:02,673 --> 00:39:05,708
In 2013 after
23 derailments,
691
00:39:05,744 --> 00:39:08,411
The government closed
this section for 11 weeks
692
00:39:08,447 --> 00:39:15,084
And completely
overhauled the track.
693
00:39:15,120 --> 00:39:17,454
And today, there's a
convoy of specialized rail
694
00:39:17,588 --> 00:39:20,557
Cars traveling ahead of
us, making sure the tracks
695
00:39:20,691 --> 00:39:27,330
Are still in good
working order.
696
00:39:27,366 --> 00:39:29,032
If we don't take
good care of the tracks,
697
00:39:29,167 --> 00:39:30,734
Especially for the curves,
there's a good chance
698
00:39:30,868 --> 00:39:38,007
The train might derail.
699
00:39:38,042 --> 00:39:41,043
(Teddy)
a tamping machine lifts
the rails and sleepers
700
00:39:41,079 --> 00:39:43,680
And corrects their alignment,
while at the same time
701
00:39:43,815 --> 00:39:47,183
Levelling the
ballast underneath.
702
00:39:47,318 --> 00:39:49,486
Additional crushed rock
is then added to reinforce
703
00:39:49,620 --> 00:39:53,556
Support for the track.
704
00:39:53,592 --> 00:39:56,259
Once the crew confirms
that the track is level,
705
00:39:56,294 --> 00:40:03,866
They move the convoy down
the rail line to the
next section.
706
00:40:03,902 --> 00:40:08,671
The track is now
in good condition.
707
00:40:08,707 --> 00:40:10,339
We have to move the
machines out of the way
708
00:40:10,375 --> 00:40:20,283
Now so the train
to khun tan can pass.
709
00:40:20,318 --> 00:40:23,520
(Teddy)
regular maintenance
helps to prevent derailments,
710
00:40:23,654 --> 00:40:27,724
But adding new ballast can
raise the height of the track
711
00:40:27,859 --> 00:40:32,362
Turning a tunnel
into a death trap.
712
00:40:34,098 --> 00:40:37,734
Here we go!
713
00:40:38,903 --> 00:40:42,204
♪ ♪ ♪
714
00:40:42,240 --> 00:40:45,475
(Teddy)
it's the final day of my
train trip through thailand.
715
00:40:45,610 --> 00:40:51,280
I'm headed to chiang mai
on the northern line.
716
00:40:51,316 --> 00:40:54,650
30 kilometers north of us
a work crew are inspecting
717
00:40:54,686 --> 00:41:00,590
A tunnel that runs right
through the khun tan
mountain range.
718
00:41:00,725 --> 00:41:02,258
Today, we have
an important mission,
719
00:41:02,294 --> 00:41:06,629
Which is measuring
the size of the tunnel.
720
00:41:06,664 --> 00:41:08,965
(Teddy)
this safety precaution
must be done every time
721
00:41:09,100 --> 00:41:11,567
Extra ballast has
been added for support.
722
00:41:11,603 --> 00:41:13,803
If the track has been
raised too high,
723
00:41:13,938 --> 00:41:18,908
The consequences
could be deadly.
724
00:41:19,043 --> 00:41:20,543
There's a chance that when the
train goes through the tunnel,
725
00:41:20,578 --> 00:41:22,344
It might hit
the tunnel wall.
726
00:41:22,380 --> 00:41:24,714
Or if a passenger sticks
their head out the window
727
00:41:24,849 --> 00:41:27,383
They might smash their
head against the wall.
728
00:41:27,518 --> 00:41:30,086
This tool is for
measuring the tunnel's size.
729
00:41:30,121 --> 00:41:35,758
We use a laser and we
measure every 5 meters.
730
00:41:35,793 --> 00:41:38,761
(Teddy) laser beams are shot
from the track to measure the
precise
731
00:41:38,796 --> 00:41:41,631
Distance to the
walls of the tunnel.
732
00:41:41,766 --> 00:41:44,234
If the position of the tracks
have shifted even a slight
733
00:41:44,368 --> 00:41:51,274
Amount the track level will
have to be corrected right away.
734
00:41:57,582 --> 00:41:59,849
(Teddy)
this critical
work has to happen fast.
735
00:41:59,984 --> 00:42:02,618
They have less than 15
minutes to stop any trains
736
00:42:02,654 --> 00:42:04,754
In transit if
there's a problem.
737
00:42:08,693 --> 00:42:11,928
(Teddy)
once the tunnel is deemed
safe and the crew clears out.
738
00:42:15,033 --> 00:42:19,502
(Teddy)
our train is given to
go ahead to pass through
739
00:42:24,376 --> 00:42:25,574
(Teddy)
we are approaching
the khun tan tunnel.
740
00:42:25,610 --> 00:42:27,277
You can see it
right there.
741
00:42:27,411 --> 00:42:28,811
At thirteen hundred
and sixty-two meters,
742
00:42:28,846 --> 00:42:31,814
It's the longest railway
tunnel in all of thailand.
743
00:42:31,849 --> 00:42:36,986
And it was built in 1907
so it's also one of the oldest.
744
00:42:37,022 --> 00:42:39,288
And it took
the longest to build.
745
00:42:39,324 --> 00:42:41,891
Crews laboured for
11 years to get through
746
00:42:42,026 --> 00:42:47,263
The solid granite.
747
00:42:47,299 --> 00:42:49,765
The ashes of the
german engineer who led
748
00:42:49,801 --> 00:42:54,136
The project are interred
above the tunnel entrance.
749
00:42:54,172 --> 00:42:57,606
On the other side of
the tunnel is khun tan station.
750
00:42:57,642 --> 00:43:00,643
At 758 meters above sea level,
it's the highest
751
00:43:00,678 --> 00:43:08,217
Railway station
in thailand.
752
00:43:08,352 --> 00:43:10,686
Now that we've conquered
our steepest climb,
753
00:43:10,722 --> 00:43:14,824
We can disconnect the additional
loco and prepare for our descent
754
00:43:14,959 --> 00:43:27,637
Toward our final
destination of chiang mai.
755
00:43:27,772 --> 00:43:31,407
After we leave chaicharn
I recommend you take
photos of the white bridge
756
00:43:31,443 --> 00:43:35,745
It's really beautiful.
757
00:43:35,880 --> 00:43:38,514
(Teddy)
the 100-year old tha
chomphu bridge is known
758
00:43:38,550 --> 00:43:41,817
Locally as
'the white bridge'.
759
00:43:41,853 --> 00:43:43,686
Built during
wartime when steel was
760
00:43:43,721 --> 00:43:47,857
Hard to come by,
concrete was used instead.
761
00:43:47,926 --> 00:43:49,525
The brilliant white
structure, measuring
762
00:43:49,561 --> 00:43:52,094
Eighty seven point
three meters long,
763
00:43:52,130 --> 00:43:58,267
Has become an iconic
landmark in the region.
764
00:43:58,402 --> 00:44:00,870
It's beautiful, it's gorgeous.
765
00:44:01,005 --> 00:44:07,810
And it's something you can't
see flying from city to city.
766
00:44:07,845 --> 00:44:09,178
(Teddy)
taking the train,
767
00:44:09,214 --> 00:44:13,516
I've been able to get a close
up look at the countryside
768
00:44:13,551 --> 00:44:14,850
I was getting
whacked by the bushes.
769
00:44:14,886 --> 00:44:16,452
Whoah!
(chuckling)
770
00:44:16,488 --> 00:44:23,159
Close call!
771
00:44:23,194 --> 00:44:28,864
As I arrive in chiang mai,
I gotta admit I'm blown away.
772
00:44:28,900 --> 00:44:31,801
Not just by the beauty of
this ancient walled city
773
00:44:31,936 --> 00:44:36,072
But also the journey
that brought me here.
774
00:44:36,107 --> 00:44:38,608
Travelling through flooded
fields and bustling
775
00:44:38,710 --> 00:44:43,846
Bangkok markets I've able
to soak up rich history
and traditions.
776
00:44:43,981 --> 00:44:47,349
Surrounded by majestic
scenery at each and every stop
777
00:44:47,385 --> 00:44:49,051
Along the way.
778
00:44:49,087 --> 00:44:51,887
And through it all
thailand's old workhorses
779
00:44:51,923 --> 00:45:02,564
Never let me down.
780
00:45:02,600 --> 00:45:03,999
Well, we've
traversed the country
781
00:45:04,002 --> 00:45:06,235
And what a thrilling
way to see thailand.
782
00:45:06,370 --> 00:45:08,738
This is a difficult place
to operate a railway.
783
00:45:08,873 --> 00:45:10,272
Lots of challenges.
784
00:45:10,308 --> 00:45:14,977
But the trains here are
so exciting and so full of life.
785
00:45:15,012 --> 00:45:26,856
♪ ♪ ♪
786
00:45:26,925 --> 00:45:39,569
♪ ♪ ♪
787
00:45:39,703 --> 00:45:53,149
♪ ♪ ♪
73226
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