BANGKOK, Thailand – Phuket is set to transform its transportation infrastructure, aimed at reducing travel time and accommodating the growing number of tourists—further reinforcing the island’s status as a world-class tourist destination.
According to Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, the main issue lies in Phuket’s limited access routes to the city. Currently, Highway 402 serves as the only major road into Phuket City, with 13 major intersections. This has led to frequent traffic congestion, particularly between the airport and the city center.
For short-term solutions, the Ministry has instructed authorities to improve U-turn points along Highway 402 and construct Highway 4027, providing an alternative route to the city. Three key projects are underway: widening the remaining lanes to complete a four-lane road (2024-2026), developing a new direct access road to Phuket International Airport to separate tourist traffic from local traffic (starting in 2025 and completing in 2028), and constructing a new road from Baan Pa Khlok to Baan Bang Ku, creating a new route from the northern area into Phuket City.
For long-term development, the Ministry plans a comprehensive upgrade across all modes of transport—rail, road, and air. A new expressway will integrate both motorway and rail systems (MR-Map). This route will connect Phuket International Airport to Patong Beach and Phuket City, divided into two phases:
Phase 1: from Kathu to Patong, construction starts in 2026, service begins in 2030;
Phase 2: from Airport to Kathu, construction starts in 2027, service begins in 2030.
Once completed, it is expected to cut travel time from the airport to Patong Beach from 1.5 hours to just 20 minutes.
The next goal is to improve the urban public transportation system. Developments include a light rail transit system from the airport to Chalong Intersection, covering a distance of 42 kilometers. In the initial stage, electric buses (EV buses) will serve the route, with full light rail operation targeted for completion by 2031.
These developments aim to make Phuket a destination that is more convenient, safer, more environmentally friendly, and well-equipped to welcome international tourists while enhancing the quality of life for its residents. (PRD)
