Navy Backs Senate Plan for Koh Kood Road to Bolster Border Security
Thailand's Navy backs a Senate plan to build a 5-kilometer road on Koh Kood island in Trat Province by 2025, citing improved border security and supply logistics during monsoon seasons when boat access becomes impossible.
The Senate held a forum on September 19 at the Mercure Chang Island Hideaway Hotel in Trat Province titled "Roads on Koh Kood Towards Border Security." Senator Pisut Rattanawong, chairman of the Senate Tourism and Sports Committee, joined Navy commanders including Rear Admiral Rungrojn and Admiral Tosapol Pongpaisalrsi, who oversees Koh Kood operations.
Pisut explained that the eastern region committee identified supply-line challenges on Koh Kood, particularly during monsoons when personnel must trek through forest because rough seas prevent boat access. Senate members coordinated with the Rural Road Department to allocate 112 million baht for a 5-kilometer road, expected to complete by 2025. Once finished, the Senate will also help secure electricity infrastructure.
Rear Admiral Rungrojn stated the road would greatly assist in transporting equipment and artillery pieces to elevated positions, enabling Thai guns to reach the opposite shore for deterrence. He noted the military has also received funding for bunkers and emergency systems, including drone-bomb detection protocols.
Admiral Tosapol welcomed the road, citing difficulties with boat-dependent supply runs. The new route would improve morale, speed casualty evacuation—especially at night—and enable personnel to purchase supplies. When Senator Ratchanee Thongtip asked how the road would preserve Thai sovereignty amid international tensions, Rear Admiral Rungrojn stressed that Thai-Cambodian relations remain good, with regular social and sporting exchanges. He indicated recent confrontations followed orders from higher command.
