Imagine a Phuket and Samui free from traffic chaos—where exploring pristine beaches and alluring cultural landmarks isn’t marred by the unpredictable mess of island traffic. Thanks to the visionary efforts of the Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat), this dream is moving closer to reality!
Leading the charge, Exat governor Surachet Laopoolsuk recently shared with CU Radio of Chulalongkorn University his ambitious plan for new tollways that promise to alleviate traffic bottlenecks. The innovative solution for Phuket would significantly reduce accidents and ease traffic congestion, unfettering the island’s boundless potential.
But let’s not get carried away; there are a few hurdles yet to clear. The proposed expressway still awaits the hallowed nod of cabinet approval. The go-ahead is anticipated later this year, primed for when pesky land issues with government entities have been ironed out. With these bureaucratic wrinkles smoothed, we can expect the ribbon cutting by 2030. Patience is a virtue, after all.
The expressway itself promises to be a marvel, stretching over 35 kilometers, a critical artery across island terrain. Construction will unfurl in two gripping acts—act one: from Kathu district to the shimmering sands of Patong Beach, involving a spectacular tunnel carved through the mountains. Say goodbye to the treacherous Road 4029, which has long tested drivers’ nerves with its daring descents and hairpin bends.
The curtain rises on act two, linking Kathu to Phuket’s bustling airport, offering a lifeline to Road 402, whose inability to bear the brunt of rush hour traffic leaves it wheezing like an overburdened donkey. The promise: smoother travels whether you’re racing off to a sandy getaway or hurrying to catch a departing flight.
Not to be outdone, the gem of Samui isn’t forgotten. An elevated road, poised as a celestial bridge between mainland Surat Thani and the island, is in the works. Picture no more endless queues at ferry terminals, just seamless voyages across the proposed span. With the bridge stretching 30 kilometers, holiday traffic woes will become an indulgent memory of the past.
The audacious bridge project is still in search of its perfect mainland match. Fierce competition brews between Don Sak district in Surat Thani and Khanom district of Nakhon Si Thammarat, both dreaming of being the artery’s jumping-off point. The commencement of this over-the-sea marvel is slotted for 2029, with island-goers set to gleefully frolic across by 2034.
With these projects, Thailand’s tiled turquoise waters and lush landscapes are on the cusp of a transformation, inviting residents and travelers alike to bask in their splendor unfettered by traffic snags. Fasten your seatbelts, the future is gearing to go full throttle!
Amazing news! These projects could bring so much convenience and boost tourism. Imagine just zipping to Samui without a hitch.
Convenience isn’t always a good thing! Overcrowding can ruin these islands’ natural beauty. Isn’t that what we’re trying to avoid?
I suppose you have a point. But with proper regulations, can’t we have both accessibility and preservation?
zero chance of proper regulation..thevexpressway in phuket will destroy so much of the forest and encroach on many people living in that area which is beautiful and mainly jungle..
I just hope they consider the environmental impact. All this construction might hurt local wildlife. We need to tread carefully.
Absolutely, we should be very cautious. But sometimes progress is necessary for the greater good, right?
I wonder how this will affect local businesses, especially those relying on ferry services.
Traffic on Road 4029 has always been a nightmare. This expressway is long overdue!
But what if costs for tolls get out of hand? They might offset any benefits.
True, the pricing will be crucial. Hopefully, authorities will handle this wisely.
Think about all the employment opportunities this could create! From construction to tourism, it might be a much-needed economic boost.
Typical bureaucracy, two locations fighting over a bridge? Just pick one already!
Decision making takes time. Better to be thorough than hasty.
The rush to modernize can sometimes feel overwhelming. Can the islands really handle more tourists?
The cultural landmarks are a big draw, but will they be kept intact during all this development?
Cultural integrity should definitely not be compromised. Let’s hope Exat considers this aspect deeply.
Yes, it sounds good, but where’s the money coming from? More public debt?
Honestly, I can’t wait for this. Traffic is always a mess when we visit!
A marvel indeed, but what’s going to happen to the local charm once everything becomes too streamlined?
Change is inevitable. The islands have already evolved so much over the years.
Local charm is resilient. It adapts to change, and maybe these projects can find harmony with it.
Been dreaming of seamless travels and these projects feel like a dream coming true!
Pending cabinet approval means anything can happen. We need to keep our expectations in check.
You’re right, bureaucracy can be tricky. Fingers crossed for a smooth process.
Still, one can’t help but hope, right? Maybe they’ll surprise us.
Always good to stay hopeful while being prepared for obstacles.
Not sure why they didn’t consider a monorail. It’s the future of urban transport, isn’t it?
Sounds ideal but might not suit the island terrain. Always pros and cons!
the ohuket expressway is completely destructive to the surrounding forests and zero thought has been given to the many people that live on that road that will now have an expressway above their heads..I hope the government vote against this and choose a less destructive route