Deputy PM Piwat targets 2030 for Land Bridge groundbreaking, orders transport agency to expedite investment model study
Thailand's government targets 2030 to break ground on the Land Bridge, an economic corridor connecting the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea, after conducting public consultations in Ranong and Chumphon provinces this May.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Piwat Sarasin revealed details about the Land Bridge project—an economic corridor connecting the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea—stating that research by the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTPP) confirms the project is worthwhile and represents an opportunity for Thailand. The government plans to conduct field visits to Ranong and Chumphon provinces on May 8, 2025, to gather public input from residents and stakeholders. The route will start in Chumphon's Lang Suan and Phathalung districts before moving to Ranong for discussions with community leaders and local representatives. Officials will emphasize the importance of public participation and explain the project's advantages, disadvantages, and employment opportunities—from maritime services to related businesses—while ensuring local residents benefit through reserved positions and local company participation.
Piwat stated he is unconcerned about opposition, viewing it as normal for major projects, and called on all parties to prioritize national interest over factional benefits. He clarified that concerns about the Land Bridge dividing the country are unfounded and noted that environmental impact assessments will minimize ecological damage. The government expects to submit the Southern Economic Corridor Act draft to the cabinet in the third quarter of 2025 and aims to begin the Land Bridge's first-phase construction in 2030.
OTTP director Jirojn Sukaratna said his agency will accelerate design and environmental impact assessments (EIA and EHIA) in coordination with the Department of Highways and State Railway of Thailand, targeting completion by 2030 to attract investors and begin construction. Additionally, the OTPP will request budget allocation in 2030 to study the waterway motorway project (MMR1) connecting northern Thailand to the Gulf of Thailand, with results expected before cabinet approval by 2030.
