Bangkok: The M82 bus service is now free to run along the entire Bang Khun Thian - Ban Phaeo route, 24 hours a day. This development comes as part of the newly opened M82 motorway, a 25-kilometer stretch from Bang Khun Thian to Ban Phaeo, which is now accessible without charge around the clock, strengthening the connection between Bangkok and southern regions of Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, inaugurated the trial opening of the extended section of Intercity Highway No. 82 (M82), which runs from Ekachai to Ban Phaeo, covering 16.4 kilometers. This new route allows uninterrupted travel along the elevated expressway on Rama 2 Road, extending from Bang Khun Thian Interchange, through Ekachai, to Ban Phaeo. This route, which totals approximately 25 kilometers, is completely toll-free, available 24/7, and aims to provide an additional travel option that enhances traffic capacity on the congested Rama 2 Road below. The ceremonial opening was held at the Ban Phaeo toll plaza in Samut Sakhon Province.
The public can access the M82 expressway through four exit and entrance ramps: Phanthai Norasingh toll plaza, Mahachai 1 toll plaza, Mahachai 2 toll plaza, and Ban Phaeo toll plaza. These points connect to Rama 2 Road towards Samut Songkhram province, Wang Manow interchange in Ratchaburi province, and other southern provinces. However, the Samut Sakhon 1 and Samut Sakhon 2 toll plazas remain under construction and are not yet operational.
Mr. Pipat highlighted that the free availability of the M82 expressway from Bang Khun Thian to Ban Phaeo aligns with the government and Ministry of Transport's Quick Win policy. The initial section from Bang Khun Thian to Ekachai, covering 8.3 kilometers, has been operational since October 22, 2025. The recent opening of the subsequent 16.4-kilometer stretch from Ekachai to Ban Phaeo completes a continuous 25-kilometer corridor.
This new phase in the M82 project is a critical step in easing traffic congestion along Rama 2 Road, a pivotal route between Bangkok and the southern areas. By segregating long-distance travel from local traffic, the M82 is expected to alleviate congestion on lower roads and improve travel efficiency, particularly during peak holiday and festival times.
The M82 motorway also links to Motorway No. 9 (M9) and the Rama III-Dao Khanong-Western Bangkok Outer Ring Road expressway project. This integration forms a comprehensive transportation network from Bangkok through Samut Sakhon province and into the southern and western regions, significantly reducing travel time and costs. It is expected to enhance trade, investment, tourism, and the logistics system across different economic and industrial zones, and tourist hotspots.
Mr. Pipat has directed the Department of Highways and related agencies to meticulously manage route operations, traffic flow, and emergency response systems, with particular attention to the Ban Phaeo on-ramps, off-ramps, and connecting points. He also stressed the importance of clearly communicating route usage conditions and speed limits to ensure public convenience and safety.
Director-General of the Department of Highways, Mr. Piyapong Chiwatnakulpaishal, affirmed the readiness of the infrastructure, including road structures, signage, traffic markings, and safety equipment. The necessary staff and operational units have been prepared to assist the public efficiently. On August 26, 2026, the Engineering Institute of Thailand, along with the Senate's Subcommittee on Transportation and the Department of Highways, conducted a Road Safety Audit (RSA) to ensure readiness before the trial commencement. Coordination with Highway Police, Provincial Police, rescue units, and local agencies is in place to manage traffic and provide 24-hour emergency assistance. Throughout the trial period, the Department of Highways will monitor and assess safety, traffic management, user behavior, and system efficiency to enhance operations further.
The Department of Highways has set speed limits for the elevated highway: four-wheeled vehicles may not exceed 80 kilometers per hour, while trucks and buses are restricted to 65 kilometers per hour. Pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles, tricycles, and other wheeled vehicles are not permitted on the M82 elevated highway, but can use the Rama 2 Road below.
With civil construction work on the M82 approximately 98% complete, the remaining tasks are set to conclude by 2026. The installation of a toll collection and traffic control system is planned for 2027, aiming for full operation and toll collection by 2029.
The Ministry of Transport urges the public to adhere to signs, traffic markings, and official instructions, including avoiding parking on elevated roads or undesignated areas. For further information or emergency reporting, the Department of Highways hotline is available at 1586, press 82, 24 hours a day.