Photo Credit: Bangkok Post
Three major road infrastructure projects, with a combined investment exceeding 100 billion baht, are set to be submitted to the new cabinet for approval, according to the Department of Highways (DoH).
Director-general Piyapong Jiwatthanakulpaisan said on Monday that the proposals will be forwarded once the new cabinet has been formally sworn in. He emphasised that the projects are essential for reducing traffic congestion, enhancing regional connectivity and supporting long-term economic development.
The first project is the M8 motorway, linking Nakhon Pathom, Pak Tho and Cha-am. Phase 1 will span 61 kilometres from Nakhon Pathom to Pak Tho, with an investment of 54.5 billion baht. This includes 14.4 billion baht allocated for land acquisition and 40.1 billion baht for construction. The project will be implemented in two phases, with completion targeted for 2033. Once operational, it is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Nakhon Pathom and Wang Manao from 90 minutes to just 30 minutes, improving access to southern regions.
The second project involves the construction of a 66.8-kilometre outer ring road around Hat Yai in Songkhla, with a total cost of 45.3 billion baht. The DoH plans to integrate water management solutions into the design, including a parallel drainage canal to help mitigate flooding. This project will also be developed in phases, with some sections expected to open by 2035 and full completion projected for 2037.
The third project is the Bangkok Outer Ring Road (Eastern Section), a 13.6-kilometre route connecting Rangsit–Nakhon Nayok Road with Lam Luk Ka Road. Updated environmental and traffic impact assessments will be required due to overlaps with existing and planned expressway routes.