In a meeting chaired by Governor Sophon Suwannarat yesterday (Dec 26), key stakeholders convened to monitor progress on major development projects aimed at alleviating congestion and improving public transportation.
The meeting, held via Zoom at the Janpanwa Meeting Room in Phuket Provincial Hall, included participation from Pol Col Phatsakorn Sonthikun, Deputy Commander of Phuket Provincial Police; Kongsak Khoopongsakorn, President of the Phuket Chamber of Commerce; Montawee Hongyok, President of the Phuket Provincial Industrial Council; and other officials.
Governor Sophon highlighted that in 2023, Phuket’s tourism revenue soared to over B388 billion, marking a 100.38% increase from 2022, with over 10 million visitors.
However, this rapid economic growth has exacerbated the island’s infrastructure and traffic issues, particularly on Thepkrasattri Rd (Route 402), Phuket’s primary roadway, said an official report of the meeting.
Several high-priority infrastructure projects were discussed during the meeting, including:
- Phuket Mass Transit System Project (Phase 1): The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) is finalising studies for the project. The Department of Highways has been instructed to complete construction on Route 4027 to reduce disruptions on the main road.
- Kathu-Patong Expressway: Land allocation and additional information are being prepared for submission to the Cabinet for approval.
- Muang Mai-Koh Kaew-Kathu Expressway: The project is undergoing an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and investment model studies, with findings to be submitted to the Cabinet.
- Route 4027 Expansion: Efforts to add lanes between Baan Para and Baan Muang Mai are underway. The project is part of broader plans to connect new roads to Phuket International Airport and other key routes.
- Baan Muang Mai to Phuket Airport Road Construction: The new road aims to link Route 4026 with Route 4027 and the Heroines Monument. Permissions to use mangrove forest areas are being sought, with budget support requested for 2025.
- Route 402 and Route 4027 Intersection: Plans include constructing an interchange to ease congestion. Measures are also being developed to manage traffic during the construction period.
- Economic and Environmental Studies for New Highways: Studies are ongoing for a proposed highway network linking Baan Pa Khlok and Baan Bang Khu.
- Route 4302 Restoration: Repairs to the section from Sai Kaew Beach in Phuket to Tha Noon in Phang Nga are in progress to ensure smoother travel.
Governor Sophon emphasised the importance of the projects in supporting Phuket’s booming tourism economy while ensuring long-term sustainability.
“Phuket Province [the Phuket Provincial Office] is committed to developing infrastructure to match our economic growth,” he said.
“These initiatives will not only alleviate traffic but also enhance the overall travel experience for residents and tourists alike,” Governor Sophon added.