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Phuket, renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, has witnessed a surge in tourism and residential expansion over the years. This growth has inevitably resulted in heightened traffic congestion, especially in key areas such as Patong, Phuket Town, and major access roads.

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Challenges associated with traffic in Phuket include:

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• Seasonal Peaks: Tourist influx during peak seasons exacerbates traffic woes, straining existing road networks.

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• Limited Road Capacity: The island's road infrastructure was primarily designed for a smaller population, leading to bottlenecks and gridlocks in certain areas.

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• Local Commuting Challenges: Residents also face difficulties in daily commuting due to increased traffic volumes.

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So the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) is gearing up to propose four novel expressway initiatives, collectively valued at around 120 billion baht, aiming to stimulate economic growth and generate employment opportunities. The plans, as recently disclosed by EXAT Governor K.Surachet Laophulsuk, are expected to be presented to the cabinet soon, and construction bidding will commence upon approval.

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K.Surachet emphasized that these projects are strategic investments aimed at improving connectivity and fostering economic development. The projects comprise 3 expressways in Bangkok and Metropolitan, and a two-phase development of a Phuket expressway. 

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1. The first phase, covering 3.98km from Kathu to Patong, is expected to cost 14.67 billion baht. It stands as Phuket's inaugural expressway venture and Thailand's pioneering expressway featuring a tunnel accessible to motorcycle traffic.

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The primary objective of the Kathu-Patong Expressway Project is to enhance the travel route between Phuket's eastern city and Patong Beach, benefiting both locals and tourists. Additionally, the project aims to mitigate road accidents caused by challenging terrain and serve as an evacuation route during emergencies, such as tsunamis.

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The project takes the form of an elevated road with a tunnel in the middle, featuring four traffic lanes in each direction. Its starting point is Phra Metta Road in Patong Subdistrict, Kathu District, concluding in Kathu Subdistrict, Kathu District, with two entrances and exits, along with a toll gate situated in Kathu Subdistrict.

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2. The second phase, spanning 30.62km from Muang Mai to Koh Kaew to Kathu, is anticipated to cost 42.63 billion baht. The Muang Mai - Koh Kaew - Kathu expressway spans approximately 30 kilometers in length. 

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This elevated expressway is designed with two lanes in each direction, each measuring 3.5 meters in width, accompanied by a service lane on either side. The expressway's starting point is at km 19+975 on route 4026 in Tambon Thepkrasattri, where it turns right and proceeds southward, running parallel to route 402 (Thepkrasattri road). Continuing its southward trajectory, the expressway links with route 4030 and subsequently connects to route 4024 (the bypass road) in Koh Kaew. Progressing further, the expressway transforms into an elevated road along Wichit Songkram road, traversing the northern section of Kathu.

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A notable segment of this expressway is the connection to the southern end of the Patong Tunnel project, officially known as the Kathu-Patong Expressway, covering a total distance of 4.23 kilometers.

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Moreover, all the roadways connecting different parts of the island have not been neglected. Major highways and local roads have undergone expansion and improvement, complemented by the implementation of smart traffic management systems. These improvements not only ease the commute for residents but also enhance the overall accessibility for tourists exploring the island.

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Benefit of the new expressway in Phuket

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If an expressway has been implemented or planned, it could have several potential benefits for Phuket:

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• Traffic Relief: Phuket, being a popular tourist destination, often faces traffic congestion, especially during peak seasons. An expressway could help alleviate this congestion by providing a faster and more efficient route for both locals and tourists.

• Improved Connectivity: An expressway can enhance connectivity between different parts of the island, making it easier for people to travel from one area to another. This could contribute to the overall development and accessibility of various regions within Phuket.

• Time and Cost Savings: Faster transportation on an expressway could save time for commuters and reduce fuel consumption, contributing to economic and environmental benefits.

• Tourism Enhancement: A well-planned expressway system could improve the overall travel experience for tourists, making it more convenient to explore different attractions and locations across the island.

• Infrastructure Development: The construction and maintenance of an expressway can stimulate economic growth by creating jobs and promoting related businesses and services.

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It's important to note that the success of an expressway project depends on thorough planning, addressing environmental concerns, and involving the local community in decision-making processes. Public awareness campaigns and effective management during the construction phase are crucial for minimizing disruptions. Additionally, regular maintenance and monitoring are essential to ensure the sustained effectiveness of the expressway in easing traffic congestion in Phuket.

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Source : https://www.thailand.go.th/