Sirikunya Warns Government Against Proceeding with Land Bridge Project Due to Low Returns and Investment Concerns
Opposition MP Sirikunya warns the government against pursuing the Land Bridge project, citing private sector returns of just 5%—too low to attract investors—and risks of repeating failed concession project models that harmed local communiti
On April 29, 2569 at Parliament, Ms. Sirikunya Tansookul, opposition list MP and deputy leader of the Pracharaj Party, presented findings from a shadow cabinet meeting regarding the government's Land Bridge project proposal. According to an evaluation by the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning, the overall project shows an acceptable 8% rate of return with positive net present value. However, when assessed for private sector viability, returns drop to just 5%—a level so low that no private investors would be willing to participate, with negative net present value figures. Sirikunya characterized this as the worst-case scenario, as it would require private firms to fund 100% of the project themselves, making it highly unattractive for investment. She expressed uncertainty about how the government plans to proceed and whether it would adjust the investment structure. Sirikunya warned that if private sector involvement remains at 100%, there is risk of repeating past concession project failures that were auctioned then later renegotiated, such as the three-airport rail link and airport duty-free shop tender, potentially creating unfair conditions for initial bidders. She also highlighted additional concerns including environmental impacts on the Phayam and Surin island groups, as well as damage to local farming and fishing communities, questioning whether the government should proceed with a project unlikely to attract private investment.
