Construction plans underway for highway projects
The Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat) is set to undertake 11 new expressway projects, spanning a total of 170 kilometers and investing over 273 billion baht. These projects aim to address rising traffic demand, enhance freight logistics, and strengthen nationwide connectivity.
One of the projects currently in the pipeline is the Phuket Expressway Phase 1 (Kathu-Patong), a 16.7-billion-baht project that is in the process of selecting consultants and contractors after being approved by the Cabinet in August. The total investment for this project was not specified.
Two major projects are already under construction. The Rama III-Dao Khanong-Western Outer Ring Road Expressway, with an investment of 31.24 billion baht and spanning 18.7 kilometers, is 91.02% complete and expected to open toll-free by the end of 2025. The Chalong Rat Expressway Extension from Chatuchot to Lam Luk Ka district in Pathum Thani, a 24-billion-baht project spanning 16.21 kilometers, is 0.66% complete and scheduled for completion in mid-2028.
Public-private partnerships will play a key role in financing and managing the projects. The Chalong Rat-Eastern Outer Ring Road (N2) section, spanning 6.67km in Bangkok, with an investment of 13.66 billion baht, is preparing for Cabinet submission. The length of the new expressways mentioned, except for the Phuket Expressway Phase 1 (18.7km) and the Chalong Rat-Eastern Outer Ring Road (N2) (6.67km), was not specified.
The second-level expressway from Ngam Wong Wan to Rama IX Road in Bangkok, with a total investment of 34.8 billion baht, is under review by the PPP Committee for contract adjustments. Plans for a 2.25-km connector between Bangkok Port and the Bang Na-At Narong Expressway (S1) are pending discussions on the investment structure.
In August, traffic volumes averaged 1.71 million vehicles daily on these expressways. Toll revenues generated daily are approximately 65.61 million baht. The planned expansion is expected to significantly improve the transportation infrastructure in Thailand, facilitating the movement of people and goods across the country.
Currently, Exat operates eight expressway routes covering 224.6 kilometers. The new projects, once completed, will significantly increase this figure, contributing to a more efficient and connected transportation network in Thailand.
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