Officials Inspect Landbridge Project Sites in Ranong and Chumphon
Officials inspected Landbridge project sites in Ranong and Chumphon on July 3-4 to assess environmental impacts of the transport infrastructure linking the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea. The review examined marine ecosystems, wildlife pr
Dr. Rawiwan Phurideach, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and chair of the environmental impact assessment committee for the Landbridge project, led a team of experts and government representatives to Ranong and Chumphon provinces on July 3-4, 2026. The committee gathered factual information and environmental data to review the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for the transport infrastructure project linking the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea.
The inspection began in Ranong, where the committee heard concerns from Laem Son National Park officials before surveying Koh Khai Bay and Ranong Port to assess marine resources, ecosystems, and community land use. In Chumphon, officials traced the project corridor, evaluating land conditions, land use patterns, environmental impacts, and potential effects on local residents. The team also assessed measures to protect rare and endangered wildlife species along the proposed rail and highway routes, particularly in sensitive conservation areas.
Dr. Rawiwan stated that the environmental committee, one of three subcommittees under a vice-prime-ministerial-chaired panel, has responsibility for comprehensive environmental impact review. The committee examined both coastal zones subject to marine reclamation and inland areas along the proposed routes, with particular attention to protected areas. Field findings will be compiled into academic recommendations and mitigation measures to protect natural resources, ecosystems, and community livelihoods while supporting infrastructure development that creates sustainable economic opportunities.
