Phuket’s Patong Tunnel Gets Green Light at 11 Billion Baht Cost, operational in 2030, toll fees
The much-anticipated Patong Tunnel project in Phuket has finally been approved, carrying a substantial cost of 11 billion baht and navigating fresh challenges.
On 26 August, the Cabinet endorsed a significant shift in the project’s investment strategy, granting the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) direct control over construction. The Kathu–Patong section, commonly referred to as the Patong Tunnel, will now proceed with a Design & Build approach, moving away from the stalled private-sector investment plan initially sanctioned in January 2022.
The original plan faltered when no private firms opted to undertake the project under the offered terms, leaving the government to shoulder the expense. Under the new structure, EXAT will secure necessary funding through borrowing or bond issuance, with backing from the Ministry of Finance.
The total budget for the Patong Tunnel project stands at 10.96 billion baht, encompassing both construction and oversight costs. The endeavour consists of a 900-metre elevated roadway, a 1.85-kilometre tunnel, and an additional 1.23 kilometres of elevated road, featuring four lanes in each direction.
Once operational in 2030, motorists will face tolls starting at 15 baht for motorcycles, escalating to 125 baht for larger vehicles with over 10 wheels, with rates set to increase every five years.
The tunnel is designed to connect Phra Metta Road in Patong to Route 4029 in Kathu, traversing the Khao Nakkerd hills. The project aims to alleviate congestion, cut travel times, and enhance safety along Highway 4029, while underpinning Phuket’s burgeoning tourism and logistics sectors.
EXAT has highlighted that the new expressway will bolster the island’s infrastructure, uplift the quality of life for residents and visitors, and reinforce confidence in the province’s future growth.
Visible progress on the project commenced last month. Land expropriation is complete, with the Patong Municipality clearing designated construction sites. By Sunday, 7 September, all structures in the area are expected to be demolished.
However, despite these developments, EXAT has yet to specify the start date for actual construction. With a completion target now set for 2030, the project appears to be more of a long-term venture than initially anticipated by officials.
Source: https://aseannow.com/topic/1372085-phukets-patong-tunnel-gets-green-light-at-11-billion-baht-cost/
