BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn visited Chanthaburi this week to review transport projects aimed at improving travel across the eastern region, easing congestion, and supporting tourism, trade, and logistics in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces. Among the proposals is a bridge across the Chanthaburi River estuary connecting with Chaloem Burapha Chonlathit Road in Laem Sing district. The project could reduce the journey from central Chanthaburi to coastal areas from about 40 kilometers to 11 kilometers. Phiphat instructed agencies to examine its engineering, environmental, and economic feasibility, while another proposed bridge would help divert traffic away from central Chanthaburi.
Plans for Highway No. 3 (Sukhumvit Road) include upgrades at several intersections to ease bottlenecks. The Koh Rong-Sak Chai section has received 1.5 billion baht in the fiscal 2026 budget, while another 1.5 billion baht is proposed for the Khao Rai Ya Intersection in fiscal 2027. Phiphat also called for improved public transportation to tourist destinations where services remain limited. The ministry is also studying a mainland-Koh Chang bridge in Trat, including connections with the island’s road network and potential environmental impacts. Officials will also consider a proposed railway extension from Map Ta Phut in Rayong through Chanthaburi to Trat, which could improve passenger travel and the shipment of agricultural products. Phiphat directed agencies to prioritize projects based on public safety, traffic demand, economic benefits, environmental impacts, and available funding. (NNT)
