Cabinet Approves 6.6 Billion Baht Bridge Projects for Ko Lanta
Thailand's Cabinet approved two major bridge projects worth 6.6 billion baht, including a 2.2-kilometer bridge connecting Ko Lanta in Krabi that is expected to begin construction by year-end and boost tourism development in the region.
Deputy Transport Minister Sompetch Bunyamani announced on July 7, 2569 at Thai Proud Party headquarters that the Cabinet has approved two major infrastructure projects for Southern Thailand: a bridge connecting Ko Lanta and a bridge spanning Songkhla Lake. The Ko Lanta bridge project will connect Ko Klang and Ko Lanta Noi subdistricts in Ko Lanta District, Krabi Province, while the Songkhla Lake bridge will link Krasan District in Songkhla Province with Khao Chai Son District in Phatthalung Province.
The Ko Lanta bridge spans 2.2 kilometers with a budget of approximately 1.8 billion baht. Construction is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2569 at the latest by year-end, with completion projected within three years. Upon completion, the bridge will not only connect the mainland to the island but will also reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety, and shorten travel times while elevating transportation standards to support Krabi's future tourism development.
The Songkhla Lake bridge spans 7 kilometers with a budget of 4.8 billion baht, with construction contracts expected to be signed by year-end and a three-year completion timeline. This project will enhance tourism around Songkhla Lake and connect the east and west coasts while reducing transportation costs for business operators. Travel time from Phatthalung to Songkhla Province will be reduced from over two hours for 80 kilometers to just 15 minutes.
Environmental protection remains a priority, with the Cabinet allocating 402 million baht for establishing an Irrawaddy dolphin conservation center. Thailand's remaining population of these dolphins, the world's fifth-largest group, currently numbers approximately 14-15 individuals.
