Rama II Road, renowned as Highway 35, is set to outshine its previous self with a construction renaissance that promises commuters a swifter, seamless journey. In a dynamic move, the Transport Ministry is making waves with its pledge to wrap up these pivotal projects before we bid adieu to this year. Under the meticulous eye of the Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat), the first major undertaking—the Rama III-Dao Khanong-Western Outer Ring Road expressway—has impressively reached the 87% completion mark. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, with an air of optimism, declared on Monday that we’re on track to see the finishing touches applied by November.
As the hammers and drills hum along ahead of schedule, there’s an extra dash of urgency in the air. The Transport Ministry, like a maestro conducting a symphony, is orchestrating the construction crescendo to ensure an on-time finale by year’s end. But hold onto your hard hats, because that’s not the end of this road trip! The elevated Ekkachai-Ban Phaeo Intercity Motorway 82 (M82) is making a dash for the finish line too. Stretching an admirable 25 kilometers, this project paves the way for innovation, already boasting a near-completion rate in sections like Bang Khuntian to Ekkachai at 98%, and Ekkachai to Ban Phaeo at a robust 70%.
While the problem-solving prowess of engineers aligns the final pieces, a new chapter is waiting to unfold. Mr. Suriya divulged that the hunt is on for a private partner to co-invest in the highway’s systems. The stage set, the curtains for M82 to finally rise are scheduled for the grand opening act in late 2027.
With all this construction buzz, one cannot ignore the environmental curtain call. Enter the government’s highly proactive plans to wrestle with the notorious PM2.5 pollution levels. For areas starring 50 micrograms per cubic meter of PM2.5, they’ve rolled out the big guns—a high-pressure misting system to wash away worries and keep the air fresh.
In parallel, there’s a buzz north of the capital too! Pathum Thani’s Rural Highway 3004 has undergone its very own transformation. Once a notorious hotspot for congestion, this 10.4-kilometer stretch now proudly sports dual lanes in both directions. This upgrade promises to shave precious minutes off travel times and, most importantly, amplify road safety—a win-win for everyone cruising through.
As we race toward the end of 2025 and beyond, it’s clear that Thailand is moving into a new era of transportation. With strategic foresight and infrastructure overhauls, the journey down Rama II Road and its neighboring highways will no longer be just a commute, but rather, a road paved with promise.
This whole construction effort is just another government cash grab. Why do we always prioritize big flashy projects over the real issues like air pollution?
I disagree, Larry. Improving infrastructure can help reduce congestion and pollution long-term. It’s about balancing immediate needs with future benefits.
Even if it helps later, what about the pollution now? We need immediate solutions, not promises!
The government is already implementing misting systems for PM2.5. Isn’t that an immediate action?
Finally! An upgrade that’s long overdue. My daily commute on Rama II has been a nightmare for years.
I feel the same way! But do you think these changes will last, or just fall apart soon after completion?
Good point, Theo! Maintenance matters too. Often, it’s ignored once projects wrap up.
Does anyone else think the real issue is overpopulation in Bangkok? Roads are only a temporary fix. We need to address the root cause.
True, Anna. Densely packed cities lead to these problems. But is there a viable alternative?
All this construction is bad news for local wildlife. I bet no one’s talking about the habitats we’re destroying.
I care about the environment too, but isn’t the objective to improve human living conditions? We need balance.
Exactly! Big construction always forgets the environment. It’s just about money.
These projects are ambitious, but isn’t it mostly funded by taxpayer money? We should have a say in such investments.
True, but they argue that it benefits everyone in the end. The problem is claiming benefits without providing concrete evidence.
This news must be such a relief to businesses along Rama II. Delivery times will improve immensely.
And property values will shoot up too. But will smaller businesses actually thrive or be pushed out?
Talk about forward-thinking! I’m excited for the future of transportation if we fully embrace these upgrades.
Sounds like a pain for anyone living near the construction zones though. Traffic and noise are gonna be a headache.
Definitely. They’re forgetting about the short-term disruptions for residents.
Why can’t we invest in more public transportation instead? It’s a more sustainable solution.
Remember the plans for extending the BTS? I think we can do both roads and trains!
Is anyone else concerned about the environmental impact assessments being rushed here?
You’re absolutely right, JaneDoe. Cutting corners in assessments is a long-term risk.
I just want to see this work, it’s too late to complain about changes when they’re almost done!
Implementation speed is good, but my concern is the rushed construction might lack quality in the long run.
Anyone know how long the road closures will last? Need to plan my routes!
Good question, TrafficTom. Announcing clear timelines should’ve been a priority.
As long as it reduces my commute by fifteen minutes, I’m all for it.