The Office of Transport and Traffic Policy Planning (OTP) has announced plans to invest 8.87 billion baht to enhance the water transport network in Bangkok and its surrounding provinces.
Panya Chupanich, the OTP’s director-general, stated that the water transport development plan has received approval from the Transport Ministry and is now awaiting review by the Office of National Economic and Social Development Council and the cabinet.
The project, set to take place from 2024 to 2032, aims to add 112 kilometers of new canal routes to encourage public boat transport in Bangkok and neighboring areas.
During the first phase from 2024 to 2027, the development will include four new canal routes totaling 52.6 kilometers.
The S1 route will cover 25 kilometers along the Sai Mai-Phra Khanong stretch of the Lat Phrao canal, featuring 23 piers. This section will be developed by City Hall in collaboration with the Marine Department.
The S2 route will span 6.8 kilometers along the Saen Saep canal, connecting Wat Si Boonruang to Wat Bampennua, and will include 13 piers. This route expands upon the existing 17.2 kilometers currently operated by Family Transport Co.
The S3 route will follow the Bangkok Noi canal, extending 17.1 kilometers from Pratu Nam Chimphli to Siriraj Hospital, and will include 18 piers.
The S4 route will cover 6.6 kilometers along the Prem Prachakon Canal, linking the Bang Sue area with the PTT park and featuring seven piers. This route is anticipated to function more as a tourist path than a commuter service.
In the second phase, from 2028 to 2032, three additional routes will be developed, covering 56.7 kilometers.
The L1 route, which will extend 13.7 kilometers and include 13 piers, will connect the PTT Park to Wat Rangsit, building upon the S4 route.
The L2 route will stretch 15 kilometers along the Chao Phraya River, linking the Pak Kret pier in Nonthaburi to the Muang district in Pathum Thani, and will feature three piers.
The L3 route will run 28 kilometers from Wat Chaiyakhruekmala to Pratu Nam Maha Sawat, including 13 piers.
Mr. Panya highlighted that the total investment for the entire project amounts to approximately 8.87 billion baht, with 1.3 billion baht allocated for upgrading various services.
