Plans for new tollways on Phuket and Samui aim to alleviate traffic issues that currently limit the islands’ potential as prime vacation destinations, as stated by the chief of the Expressway Authority of Thailand.
During an interview with CU Radio from Chulalongkorn University, Exat Governor Surachet Laopoolsuk stated that the proposed toll road in Phuket would significantly reduce traffic congestion and accidents.
He noted that the project awaits cabinet approval, anticipated later this year after resolving land disputes with various government bodies. The tollway is slated to be operational by 2030.
The proposed 35-kilometer expressway in Phuket will be constructed in two phases: the initial segment will connect Kathu District to Patong Beach, and the subsequent phase will extend from Kathu to Phuket Airport.
The current road, designated 4029, which stretches from Kathu to Patong, traverses a mountain and features steep descents and sharp curves, making it hazardous.
Mr. Surachet explained that the first phase includes tunneling through the mountain, which is expected to dramatically decrease the rate of accidents.
He added that the second phase aims to ease the severe traffic on road 402, a crucial artery from the provincial hub to the airport and toward the southern mainland.
“Road 402 cannot efficiently absorb traffic, especially during morning and evening rush hours,” the Exat chief said.
Another planned infrastructure improvement is an elevated roadway linking mainland Surat Thani to Koh Samui. This 30-kilometer bridge over the sea is designed to cut down the extensive vehicle queues at ferry terminals and mitigate traffic on the holiday island.
The exact starting point for the mainland section of the bridge remains undecided, with Don Sak district in Surat Thani and Khanom district in Nakhon Si Thammarat vying for the project due to the potential economic boost it could bring.
The construction of the bridge is scheduled to commence in 2029, with an opening targeted for 2034, pending necessary approvals from the cabinet.
