SONGKHLA, Thailand – Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul presided over the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance two major infrastructure projects in southern Thailand: the Songkhla Lake Bridge, connecting Krasae Sin District in Songkhla with Khao Chaison District in Phatthalung, and the Koh Lanta Bridge in Krabi. The ceremony was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, World Bank representatives, Director-Generals of the Department of Highways, local officials, media, and residents from both provinces.
Describing the developments as “Bridges of Opportunity,” Anutin emphasized that these long-awaited projects will improve quality of life, streamline travel, reduce transportation costs, and drive regional economic growth. Upon completion, the Songkhla Lake Bridge will reduce travel time between Songkhla and Phatthalung from nearly two hours to 15–30 minutes. The Koh Lanta Bridge will connect Koh Lanta Noi, Koh Lanta Yai, and the mainland, significantly improving access to healthcare, trade, and tourism.
The Prime Minister described these projects as vital “Missing Links” connecting the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman coasts. They will strengthen logistics, trade, and regional connectivity, positioning Thailand as a central hub in ASEAN. Plans also include bicycle facilities to support eco-tourism and healthy travel. The government expressed gratitude to the World Bank for its guidance and reaffirmed its commitment to expedite construction so local communities and the southern economy can benefit as soon as possible. (NNT)
