BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Transport Minister Mallika Jiraphanwanich and Deputy Interior Minister Sakda Vicheansil conducted a final joint inspection of Motorway M81 on October 30, confirming the infrastructure is ready for its 24-hour public trial, which begins today (Oct 31).
The high-level review, held at the project office near the Bang Yai Toll Plaza, included briefings from the Director-General of the Department of Highways and the Governors of Nonthaburi and Kanchanaburi. Officials reported that all systems are operational and prepared to safely accommodate traffic across the motorway’s eight toll plazas.
Starting October 31, the M81 motorway will open to all vehicles free of charge, operating around the clock. The new route connects Bang Yai in Nonthaburi province directly to Kanchanaburi, providing a critical new link for the western region. For safety, speed limits are set at 80 km/h for standard vehicles and 65 km/h for trucks with trailers.
This trial period allows transportation authorities to evaluate real-time traffic flow, system performance, and user convenience ahead of the motorway’s formal, toll-based launch. It also offers the public an opportunity to experience the new interprovincial highway, which is expected to greatly improve travel times and regional connectivity. (NNT)
