Bangkok: The Department of Highways is fast-tracking mega-projects to cut costs and enhance community economic connections across Thailand. Minister of Public Health, Phiphat Charnvirakul, introduced the "Rural Roads for the People" policy, which involves rapid development of infrastructure projects, including the coastal road project in southern Thailand, spanning from Samut Songkhram to Narathiwat. Phase 3 of this project, covering Phetchaburi to Prachuap Khiri Khan, is already underway, alongside efforts to promote the "Nakavithi" road along the Mekong River to boost local tourism revenue.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, led a briefing on policy and operational directions for the Department of Rural Roads (DRR). Key figures, including Mr. Chayatham Phromsorn, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, and Mr. Pichit Hunsiri, Director-General of the DRR, attended with over 125 executives and rural highway district directors. The focus is on accelerating infrastructure to cater to regional needs.
Mr. Pipat emphasized the government's commitment to addressing economic challenges, reducing inequality, and enhancing resilience. The Department of Rural Roads is tasked with modernizing transportation systems to be safe and environmentally friendly. The aim is to reduce costs, ease travel, and open economic opportunities for citizens. Budget management will focus on maximizing value while prioritizing safety and environmental issues, such as addressing PM 2.5 dust and upgrading street lighting to LED systems. Large-scale projects are being expedited for immediate public benefit.
Mr. Pichit Hunsiri stated the department's preparedness to complete the transportation network by 2026, aiming for equitable development across regions. National projects include the bridge across Songkhla Lake and the bridge connecting Koh Lanta in Krabi. Contracts are in preparation following the selection of winning bidders, pending World Bank loan approval. Tourism is also a priority, with the Southern Coastal Road project already progressing. Furthermore, the "Nakavithi" road along the Mekong River aims to enhance tourism revenue for local communities.
The Department of Highways has allocated budgets to enhance road standards, support railways, and promote tourism through 333 projects covering 813 kilometers. This includes constructing 46 reinforced concrete bridges nationwide and addressing regional traffic issues. The department also focuses on public welfare during crises, deploying resources to assist flood victims and implementing intelligent traffic management technologies for safety.
With responsibility for a vast road network, the Department of Rural Roads plans to maintain and upgrade safety standards to international levels through 2027. The goal is to ensure that rural roads contribute significantly to the grassroots economy and improve the quality of life for citizens, Mr. Pichit concluded.