In an ambitious move to enhance the infrastructure along Rama II Road, Caretaker Transport Minister Suriya Juengrungreangkit has set a firm deadline for the completion of three major construction projects by June next year. These projects, critical for the highway that connects bustling Bangkok to the serene provinces of Southern Thailand, promise to transform travel and logistics in the area.
Mr. Suriya revealed to the media on Wednesday that there are currently three ongoing projects along Highway 35, popularly known as Rama II Road. These include the Rama III-Dao Khanong-Western Outer Ring Expressway project, the Bang Khunthian-Ekkachai road construction project, and the mammoth Ekkachai-Ban Phaeo motorway section.
The prominent Rama III-Dao Khanong-Western Outer Ring Expressway project, managed by the Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat), is already an impressive 80% complete. Once finished, it will significantly streamline traffic flow, with its grand opening slated for June of the coming year.
Meanwhile, the construction of the Thotsamarachan Bridge, which elegantly parallels the Rama IX Bridge, is completely wrapped up and poised to open later this year. The bridge’s adjacent road construction is progressing steadily. The intricate work is split across three contracts, with progress standing at 70%, 89%, and 76% respectively.
In addition, the 8.3-kilometre elevated road project on Highway 35 (Bang Khunthian-Ekkachai), supervised by the Department of Highways (DoH), is making rapid strides towards completion, expected by November. This project is split into three efficient segments, each nearly finished at 96%, 93%, and 96% respectively.
To give commuters an early taste of improved infrastructure, a trial opening of a 4-kilometre section of this elevated road is planned. This segment stretches between the Phanthai Norasing and Mahachai tolls, aiming for a soft launch towards the end of this year.
Lastly, the expansive Motorway No 82, covering a laudable 16.3-kilometre stretch from Ekkachai to Ban Phaeo, is also on the fast track to completion by June next year. The entire route is projected to be fully operational by 2027, with current construction progress of its ten sections ranging from 35% to 82% complete.
Ensuring the successful and timely completion of these projects, the ministry has mandated that both Exat and the DoH provide regular monthly updates on their progress. Additionally, strict adherence to safety standards is imperative to avoid any potential accidents during construction.
Once these monumental projects are completed, the anticipated improvements in travel convenience and vehicular flow along Rama II Road are immense. It’s not just an enhancement in infrastructure but a transformative leap towards modernizing Thailand’s transport network.
Stay tuned as Rama II Road gears up for a spectacular upgrade, promising smoother commutes and a better travel experience for all.
Ambitious deadlines often lead to corners being cut and compromises on safety. Why the rush?
It’s probably political. They want to show results before the next election cycle.
Even with the rush, these infrastructure projects are crucial. The area desperately needs better roads.
Better roads are good, but at what cost? Safety and quality should be prioritized.
Finally, some progress! I’ve been stuck in traffic jams on Rama II Road for years. Can’t wait for this to be finished.
But what about the environmental impact? More roads mean more cars, which means more pollution.
We need roads for better public transport and logistics too. It’s not just about more cars.
This sounds too good to be true. The government usually delays these kinds of projects. Let’s see if they can actually pull it off by June 2025.
Exactly! We’ve heard this kind of promise before. Most likely it will be delayed.
I’m hopeful. They seem to be making considerable progress already.
Hope is good, but I’m going to bet on their track record. Delays are more common than not.
This infrastructure boost will definitely enhance the economy. Goods will move faster, and tourism will likely increase.
But who’s paying for all this? Are we looking at another tax hike?
Probably, but long-term benefits outweigh the short-term pain. Improved infrastructure is vital for economic growth.
Sounds like a dream! Imagine the convenience once all these roads are done. Kudos to the Minister for setting firm deadlines.
Why aren’t they focusing on upgrading public transportation instead? Roads aren’t the only solution.
Thailand’s infrastructure needs a balanced approach—both roads and public transport. It can’t be one or the other.
Agreed, but it seems like the emphasis has always been more on roads. We need better public transport options.
I hope they include proper drainage and flood management infrastructure. Otherwise, the roads will be useless during the rainy season.
Just turned 18 and got my license! Can’t wait to drive on these new roads. They’re going to be awesome!
Infrastructure projects such as these are essential for sustainable urban development. It’s crucial they adhere to global construction and safety standards.
Well said! Following standards will ensure long-term benefits and safety.
In reality, many projects in Thailand don’t adhere strictly to these standards. Corruption makes things worse.
Seeing these deadlines is promising. My commute could significantly improve, cutting down my travel time to work.
As an expat living in Thailand, this is a game-changer! Traveling to the southern provinces will be much easier.
Agreed! I moved here six months ago, and the traffic is a nightmare. Looking forward to the new roads.
I’ve seen so many promises about infrastructure improvements. I’ll believe it when I see it.
Not everyone can afford a car here. I hope they don’t ignore the public transportation system.
Will the construction just add to the traffic woes until it’s finished?
Likely, but sometimes you need to endure short-term pain for long-term gain.
Construction projects always get delayed due to unforeseen issues. I’d be surprised if they meet the June 2025 deadline.
Can we also focus on making the roads more eco-friendly? Solar-powered lights or something? Thailand needs to go green.