BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has launched the free public trial of Motorway Route 82 (M82), a new 10.3-kilometer route linking Bang Khun Thian Interchange to Ekachai Road. The section, opened to motorists on October 22, is expected to help ease chronic congestion along Rama II Road.
The opening ceremony, held under the supervision of the Ministry of Transport, was attended by senior officials from the DOH, the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT), the Highway Police, and provincial authorities. M82 connects the southern section of the Kanchanaphisek Ring Road to Rama II Road, improving access between Bangkok and the southern provinces.
The new motorway consists of 8.3 kilometers built by the Department of Highway (DOH) and 2 kilometers by EXAT, forming part of the Rama III–Dao Khanong–Outer Ring Road Expressway Project. Director-General of Highways Piyapong Jiwattanakulpaisan said the route will reduce travel times and provide a high-standard alternative for commuters and freight transport. Comprehensive engineering and safety inspections were completed on October 20, covering road surfaces, bridges, lighting, and signage, with navigation data now available on Google Maps.
During the trial period, motorists must observe speed limits of 80 km/h for cars, pickups, and vans, and 65 km/h for trucks, trailers, and buses. The DOH has stationed 24-hour assistance teams along the route to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow. The remaining elevated section from Ekachai to Ban Phaeo is now 88 percent complete and scheduled for full completion by mid-2026.
The DOH plans to engage private operators for future management and maintenance of M82, with full commercial operations and toll collection expected by 2028. (NNT)
