The Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat) is gearing up to enter public-private partnerships (PPPs) next year for the much-anticipated 20-billion-baht Srinakarin-Suvarnabhumi Airport expressway project. Set against the bustling backdrop of Thailand’s urban landscape, this new expressway is envisaged to be operational by 2030, transforming the commute to Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Recently, Exat’s deputy governor, Katpachon Udomthampakdee, led the third public hearing, a significant milestone towards initiating the project. During this session, Exat collected valuable opinions and feedback from various stakeholders, ensuring that the project meets the community’s diverse needs and expectations. Udomthampakdee emphasized that all gathered information would be meticulously reviewed to draft the project’s detailed plan.
The drafting phase is projected to span three to four months, post which the project will hit its finalization stage. The total budget allocation for this extensive project stands at a substantial 20.7 billion baht. This allocation will comprehensively cover construction costs, design intricacies, supervision, and environmental considerations. The aim is not just to build an expressway but to create an infrastructure marvel that seamlessly blends into its environment and serves its purpose efficiently.
Digging into the financial specifics, the project boasts a net present value of 6.1 billion baht and an economic internal rate of return (EIRR) of 14.35%. These numbers underscore the project’s economic viability, comfortably surpassing the standard EIRR benchmark of 12%. In simpler terms, the Srinakarin-Suvarnabhumi Airport expressway is not just a necessity but a smart economic investment.
The planned expressway will run parallel to Inter-City Motorway No.7, enhancing connectivity and easing traffic flow. Notably, its northern section will integrate an 8.95-kilometre elevated stretch featuring four traffic lanes at the Srinakarin Interchange. This design will ensure smooth and efficient travel, significantly cutting down travel time.
Further along, the expressway will bifurcate at an intersection on Rom Klao Road, continuing on both sides of the inter-city motorway. It will then connect directly to a road leading to Suvarnabhumi Airport, enhancing accessibility to one of Thailand’s busiest transport hubs.
The entry and exit points have been strategically placed at three key locations: Srinakarin Interchange, the road leading to Suvarnabhumi Airport, and a road near King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang. These well-thought-out points will provide multiple access avenues, distributing traffic loads and preventing congestion.
To streamline toll collection, Exat plans to implement both manual and electronic systems, catering to a variety of users and ensuring smooth operations. This hybrid approach is aimed at reducing wait times and enhancing the overall user experience.
The buzz doesn’t end here. Exat is committed to conducting a comprehensive feasibility study of the project within this year. Following this, an environmental impact assessment report will be prepared to ensure that the project aligns with sustainable development goals and minimizes its ecological footprint.
As the wheels of progress turn, the Srinakarin-Suvarnabhumi Airport expressway project is set to redefine travel dynamics in Thailand, promising a future of efficient, swift, and hassle-free commutes. Stay tuned as Exat transforms this ambitious blueprint into a towering testament to modern engineering and community-centric development.
This is just another example of government waste. We don’t need another expressway. What about public transportation improvements?
I completely disagree. This new expressway is essential for reducing traffic congestion and making travels to the airport more efficient.
Both perspectives are important. We need a balance between road infrastructure and public transport.
Totally agree, Joe! Invest in subways and trains instead. It’s better for the environment too!
Exactly! They always go for the flashy projects instead of practical solutions.
It’s not just about flash. The expressway will have a significant economic impact. It’s a long-term investment.
This project reeks of corruption. How much of that 20 billion baht do you think will end up in politicians’ pockets?
While corruption is a concern, it’s also important to look at the benefits this infrastructure can bring. Let’s hope they maintain transparency.
Why aren’t they considering eco-friendly options? More concrete means more environmental damage.
We must think about the environmental impact. More cars on the road lead to higher emissions and poor air quality. They should focus on green alternatives.
This is great news! Finally, a quick way to get to the airport without sitting in traffic for hours.
People who use the airport are mostly tourists anyway. We need projects that benefit the residents!
I benefit from it as a resident who travels for work often, so not just tourists.
Has anyone thought about the disruption this will cause during construction? It’s going to be chaos!
I’m excited about the expressway. Anything that cuts down travel time is a win in my book.
I agree! Less time on the road means more time with family and productivity.
Don’t forget about potential noise pollution for residents living near the construction zones.
That is a valid concern, Larry. Hopefully, proper measures will be taken to mitigate noise.
The economic benefits are amazing! A 14.35% EIRR is no joke.
Totally agree, Jay. This project could boost local economies significantly. More business opportunities near the new expressway.
I think they should have more public hearings before moving forward. Transparency is key.
They have already held three public hearings, and more feedback is always welcome. It’s part of a sound planning process.
Good to know! I hope they actually listen to us, though.
How will this expressway connect to existing public transportation? Seamless integration is critical.
Excited to see Thailand making strides in infrastructure. This expressway will be a game-changer!
I have serious questions about the environmental impact. What kind of feasibility studies are being done?
They are planning to do comprehensive feasibility and environmental impact studies. It seems they are taking it seriously.
Let’s hope those studies are unbiased. I have my doubts.
The new expressway will look out of place in historical Bangkok.
I bet the traffic during construction will be a nightmare for everyone.
Concrete jungles everywhere! We need parks and green spaces, not more expressways.
Investing in airport access sounds good, but hopefully, they have a maintenance plan to keep the expressway in top condition.
Before we bash the project, let’s see how it plays out. It might just surprise us.
Farewell to long airport commutes! This new expressway is exactly what we need.
I’m concerned about future toll prices. They shouldn’t be exorbitant or it defeats the purpose.
With all the money they’re spending, I hope it actually improves commutes and doesn’t just become another white elephant.
All of this sounds promising, but we need to keep an eye on possible delays. Construction projects rarely finish on time.
I think focusing on expressways will lead to more car dependence. We should learn from cities like Tokyo with their excellent rail systems.