BANGKOK, Thailand – The government opened another section of the M82 elevated motorway for free trial use today (Aug 28), allowing motorists to travel continuously from Bang Khun Thian through Ekkachai to Ban Phaeo. The route now provides about 25 kilometers of elevated travel along the Rama II Road corridor and is open 24 hours a day. The newly opened Ekkachai–Ban Phaeo section spans 16.4 kilometers and is accessible via the Phanthai Norasing, Mahachai 1, Mahachai 2, and Ban Phaeo interchanges. No tolls will be charged during the trial period, while full operation and toll collection are scheduled for 2029.
Passenger vehicles are limited to 80 kilometers per hour, while trucks and passenger transport vehicles are limited to 65 kilometers per hour. Motorcycles, bicycles, three-wheeled vehicles, pedestrians, and other prohibited road users must continue using the ground-level lanes of Rama II Road. Deputy Government Spokesperson Ploythalay Laksameesaengchan announced the opening, which is expected to ease congestion on Rama II Road and improve passenger and freight connections between Bangkok and Southern Thailand. The M82 will also provide easier access to Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram, Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and other southern provinces. (NNT)
