National infrastructure investment: 273 billion baht directed towards 11 expressway development projects across the country by EXAT
The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) has unveiled plans to invest a substantial 273.29 billion baht in 11 expressway projects across the country. These ambitious projects aim to add approximately 170 kilometers to the national expressway network, easing traffic congestion and boosting economic growth.
One of the most significant projects is the Phuket Expressway, with phase 1 already approved by the cabinet. Contractors are currently being selected, and EXAT is preparing to seek cabinet approval for phase 2. The second section of the Phuket Expressway, running from Muang Mai to Kathu via Koh Kaew, will be 30.62 kilometers long and require an investment of 46.75 billion baht. Once phase 2 receives approval, the entire route is expected to be operational by early 2030.
The Phuket expressway phase 2 project will be developed under a public-private partnership (PPP), covering both phase 1 and phase 2. Meanwhile, the Phuket expressway phase 2 project, which has an estimated cost of about 46.75 billion baht, is currently under review with adjustments to integrate with Bangkok traffic plans.
Another notable project is the Srirat-Chalong Rat (N1) expressway project, which is 12.6 kilometers long and has an estimated cost of 10.55 billion baht. This project is also under review with adjustments to integrate with Bangkok traffic plans.
Feasibility studies are underway for the Surat Thani-Koh Samui expressway, which is approximately 37.4 kilometers long and has an estimated cost of about 55 billion baht. The studies are expected to complete in early 2026. The Ngamwongwan-Rama IX double-deck expressway project is also under review, with a length of 20.1 kilometers and an estimated cost of 34.8 billion baht.
EXAT is also advancing its 53-year smart expressway strategy, integrating digital platforms and intelligent transport systems (ITS). Preparations are being made for connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs), including V2X communication systems and high-definition digital mapping. Pilot testing is expected by 2026.
Two expressways are currently under construction, but no further details about these projects were provided in the article. The east-west link in Bangkok, designed to ease traffic on Ngamwongwan and Prasertmanukit roads, is one of the projects under consideration. The east-west link project covers 6.67 kilometers and costs 13.66 billion baht.
The Bangkok Port connector (Bang Na-At Narong, S1) project is 2.25 kilometers long and has an estimated cost of 4.98 billion baht. However, clarity on the port's development plan is still needed before the project can move forward.
Feasibility studies are also underway for the Trat-Koh Chang expressway, which is 6 kilometers long and has an estimated cost of 15 billion baht, with studies due by the end of 2026.
These infrastructure investments are a testament to EXAT's commitment to improving Thailand's transportation network and supporting economic growth. As these projects progress, commuters and businesses alike can look forward to smoother, faster, and more efficient travel across the country.
