Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced on Monday, July 1, that the first phase of the ambitious 1-trillion-baht Southern Land Bridge project will begin operations by the end of 2030. This infrastructure initiative, aimed at linking the Gulf of Thailand with the Andaman Sea, is undergoing adjustments based on feedback from potential investors and local communities, with the revision phase expected to be completed by the third quarter of this year.
The designs for the ports involved in the project are scheduled for completion by the end of the year, while the designs for the railway tracks and inter-city motorway are set to finish in 2024. The government plans to select a contractor by the third quarter of 2025, with the contract signing anticipated early in 2026.
Construction will take place in three phases. The first phase is set to begin in 2026 and open in 2030. The second phase is scheduled for 2031 to 2034, and the third phase from 2035 to 2036. The project includes the development of a port in Ranong province facing the Andaman Sea and another in Chumphon facing the Gulf of Thailand, along with investments in inter-city motorway and railway infrastructure totaling 358.52 billion baht.
Suriya highlighted the project’s strong financial outlook, noting an internal rate of return of 8.62% and an expected break-even point 24 years into operations. He emphasized the significant economic impact of the Land Bridge, projecting it will create 280,000 jobs in Chumphon and Ranong provinces and significantly boost the nation’s GDP.
In attendance at the announcement were various officials and stakeholders who expressed optimism about the project’s potential to transform regional connectivity and economic landscapes.
