Bangkok: The Cabinet has granted approval for the Department of Highways to commence the civil works for the M9 Bang Bua Thong-Bang Pa In highway, part of the Bangkok Outer Ring Road (Western Section) project. This decision marks a significant step forward in the development of the country's transport infrastructure. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, disclosed that the Cabinet meeting sanctioned the Department of Highways (DOH) to move ahead with the construction of the highway, allocating a total budget of 15,862 million baht. The funding will be sourced from toll fees and a supplementary government budget, as recommended by the Ministry of Transport. The spokesperson further explained that this project extends beyond the current terminus of the Intercity Highway No. 9, which is the Bangkok Outer Ring Road's Western Section from Bang Khun Thian to Bang Bua Thong. The DOH is tasked with continuing the project to ensure the completion of both sections of the intercity highway: 1. Bang Khun Thian - Bang Bua Thong section 2. Bang Bua Thong - Bang Pa In section This initiative aims to create a comprehensive intercity expressway network encircling Bangkok, facilitating seamless connections with existing and future expressway networks. The new highway will link travel routes between regions around Bangkok and upcoming intercity expressway developments. Key aspects of the project include upgrading an existing highway to meet intercity expressway standards, thus eliminating the need for land expropriation. The construction will feature a six-lane concrete road, with three lanes in each direction. The project's total cost amounts to 15,862 million baht, encompassing civil works, supervision consultant fees, and contingency funds. The funding breakdown includes 8,739 million baht from toll fees and 7,123 million baht from the national budget. The project is projected to span six years, from 2025 to 2030. The Council of State has affirmed that the project is included in the Annual Budget Act of 2026, ensuring it does not create obligations for the next Cabinet under Section 169 (1) of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand. Consequently, the Cabinet was able to approve the project.