Thailand Accelerates Expressway Development

Thailand's Ministry of Transport has taken significant steps to expedite the progress of new expressway projects aimed at alleviating traffic congestion and boosting transportation efficiency nationwide. This directive was issued during a meeting led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Pipat Ratchakitprakarn in Bangkok on May 14, 2026.

The gathering at the EXAT Management Center saw participation from senior officials of the Ministry of Transport and EXAT executives as they deliberated on infrastructure upgrades, road safety initiatives, and eco-friendly transport options for the increasingly urbanized regions of Thailand.

Deputy PM Pipat emphasized the necessity of expanding the expressway network, citing it as a vital national priority. He noted that better road connectivity would minimize travel times, alleviate traffic congestion, and foster long-term economic advancement, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for citizens.

The Ministry of Transport has instructed EXAT to urgently complete several high-impact projects, including the Rama 3–Dao Khanong–Western Bangkok Outer Ring Road Expressway and the Chalong Ratch Expressway Extension, linking Chatu Chot to Lam Luk Ka Road. Authorities underscored the importance of prioritizing public safety throughout all construction phases, particularly in busy locations like Rama 2 Road.

Moreover, the government is accelerating additional infrastructural projects to boost urban growth and economic activity in Bangkok, such as the Srinakarin–Suvarnabhumi Expressway and the Chalong Ratch–Eastern Bangkok Outer Ring Road Expressway. Detailed studies are also commencing for a future double-deck elevated expressway between Ngamwongwan and Rama 9.

In the southern part of Thailand, efforts continue to stimulate regional economic development, particularly through the Phuket Expressway Phase 2 project, which covers New City, Koh Kaew, and Kathu. Preparations are underway to secure Cabinet approval for this initiative as part of Phuket's long-range urban development strategies.

EXAT Governor Surachet Laopulsuk affirmed the agency's readiness to implement the ministry's directives and complete major projects on schedule. He emphasized improvements in construction safety standards, traffic management systems, and public services to ensure a smoother and safer travel experience for motorists.

Additionally, EXAT is enhancing the integration of digital technology and modern transportation solutions. They are advancing the Easy Pass automated toll system and refining the EXAT Portal mobile application to facilitate expedited and accessible services for expressway users across Thailand.

Currently, approximately 57.61% of vehicles utilize the Easy Pass system, and EXAT aims to boost this usage to 70% by 2028, thereby improving traffic flow and reducing the delays associated with toll collection while also diminishing fuel consumption linked to congestion.

EXAT has reiterated its commitment to environmentally sustainable transportation as part of its Green Transport strategy, aiming for a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and striving for net-zero emissions by 2065 through initiatives such as clean energy technologies, solar rooftops, LED lighting upgrades, EV charging stations, and increased reliance on electric vehicles.