The ambitious Andaman Riviera project in Thailand is making headway, with its final report scheduled for completion in February, the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OPT) confirmed on 21 October. The development represents a massive 50 billion baht (£1.15 billion) investment, aiming to construct over 600 kilometres of new roads along the scenic Andaman coast.

 

Chaiwat Sangkhaphak, OPT's Division Director for Transport, revealed that construction would likely commence three to four years post-Cabinet approval. His comments came during a public hearing on a local island, gathering insights from 40 residents and officials. This forum is part of a series designed to incorporate community feedback into the plan for the coastal road network.

 

Spanning six provinces—Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun—the project's intent is to weave existing roads into a comprehensive system. It will enhance infrastructure through picturesque routes, offering travellers convenient stops. However, sections near protected zones may need additional environmental scrutiny.

Chaiwat emphasised the road network's potential to attract international tourists and bolster logistical capabilities, with transport demands in the region forecasted to surge in the coming decades. The new connections are poised to stimulate investment and economic advancement across these provinces.

 

In addition, Watcharaphong Chiso from Phuket's Development Division highlighted the economic disparity faced by the province. Despite contributing 380 billion baht (£8.75 billion) through tourism last year, Phuket only garnered a modest 169 million baht (£3.89 million) for tourism development. The Andaman Riviera project aims to rectify such imbalances by enhancing access and fostering growth, envisaging the Andaman coast as a premier destination for global visitors and investors alike.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-10-22

 

 

80 Million THB per km - seems high for this part of the world 🤔