New Sarasin Bridge Project – 80M Baht Study Underway for Key Link in Phuket
A significant transportation project for Phuket province sees the spotlight as Somkid Kittisopit, the new Director of the Phuket Highways Office, confirms an 80 million baht feasibility study for the new Sarasin Bridge. Announced during a meeting with Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat at Phuket Provincial Hall, this bridge is part of the MR9 network’s second phase and aims to enhance connectivity between Phang Nga and Phuket.
Designed to connect Takua Thung district in Phang Nga to Thalang district in Phuket, the new Sarasin Bridge will also integrate with an expressway linking Highway No. 4 to Mueang Mai, Koh Kaew, and Kathu. Furthermore, this development includes a dual-track railway, completing the northern section of Phuket’s long-anticipated light rail system.
Somkid emphasised that the project’s primary goals are improving accessibility, reducing traffic congestion, and ensuring a safer travel route. Beyond easing transportation woes, the bridge is poised to boost economic growth and facilitate larger maritime vessels’ navigation through the Chong Pak Phra channel, supporting regional maritime activities.
The MR9 falls within a broader Department of Highways’ MR-MAP plan, encompassing 10 motorway-railway routes across Thailand, backed by a 457 billion baht budget over five years. This initiative aims to optimise road area management and lessen community disruption.
Somkid also provided updates on other vital transport initiatives:
• Heroines Underpass: Recently passed Environmental Impact Assessments, with budget approval for a 2.38 billion baht construction extending to 2024-2027.
• Route 4027 Expansion: With a 650 million baht budget, this project aims to extend the road through Pa Khlok, enhancing a key 4.55 km section.
• New Road to Phuket Airport: Budgeted at 1.3 billion baht for a 1.95 km stretch, aimed at reducing traffic on Thepkrasattri Road, its completion is scheduled for 2025.
• Pa Khlok – Bang Khu Highway Study: A 20 million baht study evaluating new highway connections to ease congestion, expected to conclude in 12 months.
These initiatives, particularly the new Sarasin Bridge, promise to transform Phuket’s transportation framework, highlighting the region’s commitment to modernising its infrastructure and fostering economic development.
Source: Aseannow
Image from https://www.thailandmagazine.com/sarasin-bridge