Jakkrapong Thamuntree, Director of the Phuket office of the Department of Rural Roads, gave a breakdown of projects already completed, and those planned and or already underway at a press conference at Phuket Provincial Hall on Friday (Dec 20), chaired by Phuket Governor Sophon Suwanarat
Twenty rural roads, spanning over 126 kilometres, were marked for improvement, aligning with the Phuket Provincial Development Plan, Mr Jakkrapong said.
The roads are being upgraded to facilitate better access to key tourist destinations and piers, ensuring a seamless travel experience for both residents and visitors, he added.
Mr Jakkrapong explained that the development plan includes significant enhancements to roads connecting popular tourist attractions and important piers.
Highlights include:
- Tourist Access Routes:
- Rural Road 4018: A 13.2km route linking Route 4031 to Baan Khoktanode, supporting access to Nai Thon Beach, Banana Beach and Layan Beach.
- Rural Road 4055: A 2.909km road connecting Route 4029 to Patong Beach, Bangla Walking Street and Tri Trang Beach.
- Rural Road 4038: A 7.816km route to Bang Wad Dam from Route 4020.
- Rural Road 3030: A 10.680km road connecting Route 402 to Baan Kathu, offering access to the Phuket Mining Museum and facilitating travel from the airport to Patong Beach.
- Rural Road 4027: A 2.5km road connecting Route 4031 to Nai Yang National Park, serving Nai Yang Beach, Mai Khao Beach and Sirinat National Park.
- Rural Road 4009: A 2.705km route to Rawai Beach, Laem Phromthep, Windmill Viewpoint and Kata Beach.
- Pier Connection Roads:
- Rural Road 4005: A 9.505km route to Laem Sai Pier.
- Rural Road 4007: A 6.737km road leading to Ao Po Pier.
- Rural Road 4003: A 3.4km route connecting to Yamu Pier.
The Phuket Rural Highways District has allocated substantial funds to drive these projects, Mr Jakkrapong said.
In the fiscal year 2024, 31 projects were undertaken with a total budget of B190.7 million. These included seven road and bridge maintenance projects (B79mn) and 24 safety management projects (B111.7mn).
For the 2025 fiscal year, plans are in place for 18 projects with a budget of B136mn, divided into five road and bridge maintenance projects (B49.5mn) and 13 safety management projects (B86.5mn).
“The initiative is expected to significantly improve convenience, speed, and safety for travelers, elevate road safety standards, and bolster Phuket’s position as a premier international tourist destination,” Mr Jakkrapong noted.
Governor Sophon highlighted the importance of the secondary road developments, stating that they would not only enhance Phuket’s infrastructure but also contribute to its long-term economic growth and sustainability, said an official report of the meeting.