The Laem Chabang Port Phase 3 project is delayed, prompting the Ministry of Transport to accelerate efforts to adhere to the timeline.
This public-private partnership under the Eastern Economic Corridor development plan has a total value of approximately 114 billion baht, with the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) responsible for 47% and the private sector for 53%.
Upon completion, container capacity will increase from 11 million TEUs to 18 million TEUs annually.
The project also aims to raise rail transport’s share from 7% to 30% and boost vehicle handling capacity from 2 million to 3 million units per year, potentially reducing transportation costs from 14% to 12% of GDP, saving about 250 billion baht.
As of October 11, Deputy Transport Minister Monporn Charoensri reported that construction progress is at 45.09%, lagging behind the planned 48.95% by 3.86%.
This delay is largely due to offshore marine construction challenges, exacerbated by the ongoing monsoon season.
Monporn instructed the PAT to collaborate with project supervisors and contractor CNNC to expedite operations and adapt work procedures to weather conditions.
The PAT plans to complete reclamation work in Area 3 by November 2024, aiming for a monthly progress increase of 3 to 3.5%.
They are confident that the first phase will be finished by June 2026, with no impact on contracts with private partner GPC International Terminal.
Reclamation in Area F is expected to be delivered to GPC by late November 2025, allowing the F terminal to begin operations by the end of 2027.
A contract for constructing the terminal building, road systems, and utilities was signed with CHEC on July 31, 2024.
The company is currently preparing for construction, including obtaining necessary permits and conducting soil investigations.
For the rail system, procurement of equipment and IT installation are underway, with bidding documents being drafted and bidding expected to be announced in early 2025.
Source: Thai Enquirer on twitter
