According to Weerawit Kreuasombat, President of the Patong Municipality Council, all designated land has now been expropriated, and clearing the land is underway.
“The expropriation budget totals approximately B5bn, with further disbursement of funds contingent upon the complete clearance of all structures within the project area,” Mr Weerawit told The Phuket News.
EXAT reported that approximately 230 eligible recipients have already received their compensation.
The expressway’s total budget has increased from the original B14.49bn to B16.76bn following the decision to shift from a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to full government construction and expropriation.
The adjustment was approved by the EXAT board in late 2023 and reflects changes in unit pricing, inflation and additional construction measures ‒ including tunnel reinforcement to account for potential geological risks. The revised budget includes: B10.96bn for construction, and B5.79bn for land acquisition and ownership
The 3.98-kilometre route begins in Patong, at the Phra Metta Rd intersection, and features: an elevated road across Phisit Gorani Rd, a double tunnel through the Nakkerd Hills, and another elevated section ending in Kathu, near Highway 4029.
The current project timeline includes cabinet review and approval in March 2024, construction starting in October 2025 and completion and opening in October 2028.
In an official letter to the Patong Municipality, the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) formally requested municipal assistance to allow property owners, who have already received compensation to proceed with demolishing their buildings by Sept 7.
The request refers to the Royal Decree published in the Government Gazette (Volume 140, Part 33 A, dated June 1, 2023), which defined expropriated areas in Patong and Kathu for expressway construction.
Under the terms of the compensation contracts, property owners must complete demolition and vacate the area within 90 days of receiving payment.
Patong Municipality has been asked to assist with public awareness and to coordinate with Chirawat Inthrachit, a designated legal officer from EXAT.