KANCHANABURI, Thailand – The government has opened the Bang Yai–Kanchanaburi Intercity Motorway (M81) for toll-free use from August 29 to September 10, 2025, to support travel during the 51st King’s Cup Football Tournament in Kanchanaburi province. The 96-kilometer motorway will be accessible only to four-wheeled vehicles, with a speed limit of 80 km/h during the 13-day trial period.
Seven toll plazas, including Bang Yai, Nakhon Chai Si, Nakhon Pathom East, Nakhon Pathom West, Tha Maka, Tha Muang, and Kanchanaburi, are operational, while the Si Sathon one remains closed. The route officially opened at 3:00 p.m. on August 29 and will remain in service until 9:00 a.m. on September 10. The temporary opening is expected to ease congestion and improve access to the King’s Cup venue at Kanchanaburi Provincial Stadium.
In addition to supporting event travel, the free access is expected to help stimulate tourism and logistics across key provinces in the western region, including Nonthaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi, and Kanchanaburi. Motorway M81 also offers an alternative connection to the South and helps relieve traffic on heavily used routes, such as Kanchanaphisek and Phetkasem roads.
Motorists are advised to plan ahead, ensure vehicles are roadworthy, and follow posted traffic rules and guidance from officials. For updates and assistance, travelers can contact the Department of Highways hotline at 1586 or visit the official website at www.motorway.go.th. (NNT)
