Bangkok: 'Pipat' has announced ambitious plans to enhance road infrastructure in southern Thailand, including a new motorway and the expansion of the road from Pranburi to Songkhla, following the Cabinet's recent approval of three double-track railway projects in the region.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, addressed the media after the Cabinet's decision, detailing the forthcoming infrastructure projects. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is set to finalize the design for the railway route from Hat Yai District in Songkhla Province to Suai Ngai Kolok District in Narathiwat Province by January. The subsequent step involves conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), after which the project will advance as per the established protocols.
In response to the transportation needs of the 14 southern provinces, the Ministry of Transport initiated a trial opening of a new section of the M82 motorway on August 28th. This section, stretching 25 kilometers from Ekachai to Ban Phaeo, aims to improve connectivity and ease travel towards the south.
Additionally, the N8 road development is underway, running parallel to the existing Phetkasem Road. This new road will pass through Nakhon Pathom and connect with Phetchaburi, extending from Nakhon Pathom to Khao Yoi, continuing towards Kaeng Krachan, and finally reaching Pranburi district. The development of this parallel road is expected to significantly enhance the region's travel and transport efficiency.
Mr. Pipat further elaborated on future plans, indicating that the Ministry of Transport intends to upgrade the Pranburi motorway to Songkhla province. This upgrade will include branching the road off to Narathiwat province, with designs accommodating a motorway in both directions and expanding the existing road to two lanes on each side.