Govt to spend Bt1.37bn on traffic projects in Phuket

The tourist city of Phuket is going to get two underpasses and two U-turn bridges through the government’s midyear economic-stimulus package.

“The budget is Bt1.37 billion and it is going to solve Phuket’s traffic problems,Deputy Transport Minister Arkom Termpittayapaisith says.

According to him, the Highways Department has won the budget of Bt600million for constructing an underpass at the Bang Koo Intersection and the budget of Bt570million for constructing the other underpass at Chalong Intersection.

“We should be able to get constructors for the projects before the end of June. Constructions are expected to start late this year,” Arkom continues.
He adds that one U-turn bridge will also be constructed at Ban Tha Rua and the other at Mud Dok Khao Intersection, which is near the Phuket International Airport.

Phuket has attracted millions of tourists each year. Several airlines have operated direct flights between Phuket and Singapore, and European destinations.

With vibrant economies, big shopping malls, and various businesses, Phuket has experienced traffic congestion in recent years.

Arkom reveals that the Harbour Department has lately won the budget of Bt74 million to repair yacht berths at the Ao Chalong Pier too. Before big waves damaged the pier’s yacht facilities in 2012, it could accommodate up to 45 yacht and five super yacht.

“The repair should be completed by September next year,” he said, adding that such facilities can boost Phuket’s tourism even further.