Rama II Road. File photo

 

The much-anticipated completion of the elevated road construction on Rama II, a key transport artery in Samut Sakhon, has sadly hit a snag. Initially set for a June opening next year, the project is now delayed until November 2025.

 

This setback stems from technical complications in constructing the ascending stretches in the Bang Khunthian area, according to the Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat).

 

The elevated Motorway 82 (M82) spans 4 kilometres and is designed to link the Bang Khunthian, Ekkachai, and Ban Phaeo zones. Once completed, it will act primarily as a diversionary route, absorbing traffic when Rama II Road experiences breakdowns or accidents. This thoroughfare is crucial since it serves as a vital connection for commuters and goods moving in and out of southern Bangkok.

 

Unfortunately, this news of delay may cause concern among those who rely on the road. The construction's postponement means continued congestion woes for some time yet, in a region already notorious for its traffic bottlenecks. Still, the hope is that these additional months will ensure the completion of a safer, more efficient infrastructure.

Meanwhile, there’s progress elsewhere. The Rama IX frontage bridge shows promising signs, anticipated to be operational by the end of this year. This structure is part of another concurrent road development that links the Rama III motorway, Dao Khanong, and the Western Beltway.

 

Mr. Chayatan Phromsorn, the permanent secretary for transport, reports that this cable-stayed bridge will alleviate congestion on the crowded Rama IX Bridge. Once the connecting roads in the Suksawat area are built, the new bridge will open to the public, easing daily commutes across the Chao Phraya River, reported Bangkok Post.

 

Both projects are integral to Thailand's broader initiatives to improve road infrastructure and traffic flow in and out of Bangkok. Though setbacks are frustrating, authorities assert that safe and efficient completion is the main priority. The aim is to enhance mobility for residents and support economic activities reliant on this key transportation network.

 

For context, these road infrastructure improvements form part of a broader strategy to support economic growth by reducing logistics costs and addressing chronic congestion issues in and around Bangkok.

 

-- 2024-11-28

 

 

Maybe by 2027 at earliest......

1 hour ago, ChrisY1 said:

Maybe by 2027 at earliest......

Conservative estimate.

5 months, 5 years, 50 years, or just in time to be covered by the ocean?