Phang nga: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, alongside Deputy Minister of Transport, Mr. Sanpetch Bunyamanee, visited Phang Nga province to promote the Koh Kho Khao Bridge project, aiming to unlock the economic potential of the Andaman region. They conducted a forum with local leaders to address transportation challenges and develop the region's infrastructure.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Transport is focusing on engaging with the public to ensure that infrastructure development meets local needs. The Koh Kho Khao Bridge project is central to these efforts, as the current reliance on ferries poses challenges in terms of time, cost, and safety. The Department of Rural Roads has been allocated 55 million baht for the first phase of construction, with the remaining section undergoing an Environmental Impact Assessment.
The Ministry's vision extends beyond transportation improvements, as it aims to make Koh Kho Khao the first "Zero Carbon" tourism pilot area in Asia. This initiative includes promoting electric vehicles and carbon-reducing transportation systems on the island.
The visit by the ministers also addressed immediate issues, such as easing traffic congestion at the Khok Kloi intersection, improving road safety through better lighting, and coordinating urban planning efforts. The Ministry continues to monitor the development of key transportation networks, including Highway No. 4 and waterway projects like the "Andaman Ring" ferry link.
At the conclusion of their visit, Mr. Pipat and Mr. Sanphet addressed concerns about land use for the Wat Pa Thanun monastery, instructing relevant agencies to find a legal solution. Mr. Pipat emphasized the government's commitment to starting infrastructure development by addressing the real needs of the people, with collaboration between local authorities and the public being essential for progress.