5-1-2024 (BANGKOK) On Thursday, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin defended the proposed 1 trillion baht Thailand Land Bridge project before Parliament, arguing it will boost the country’s economy and development.
During House budget debates, Mr Srettha stated the massive infrastructure initiative could strengthen Thailand’s economy if successful. He explained the Land Bridge aims to transform Thailand into a global logistics hub and enhance its competitiveness. Moreover, the project would help ease congestion in the crowded Strait of Malacca waterway, through which 60% of worldwide oil supplies pass.
“The government pursued this megaproject considering the current geopolitical landscape, as the country has no conflicts with other nations,” Mr Srettha added. He noted the Land Bridge would allow Thailand to serve as a vital transport centre for other countries.
Mr Srettha vowed to hold public hearings with locals in Ranong and Chumphon provinces, the planned Land Bridge sites, as well as investors, to discuss potential impacts.
Fellow Pheu Thai MP Sriyada Palimaphan said the government has already compiled planning reports for the project, including studies on the South Economic Corridor. She cited analysis showing the Land Bridge could increase GDP by 1.5%.
Ms Sriyada argued now is the “right time” for the megaproject, as transport providers worldwide are concerned about Strait of Malacca congestion. She traced the Land Bridge’s origins back to the Thaksin Shinawatra administration, with related projects advanced under Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.
The estimated 1 trillion baht initiative entails deep-water ports in Ranong and Chumphon, connecting motorways and railways. Approximately 6.21 billion baht is budgeted for land expropriation.
The four-phase timeline starts with a 610 billion baht first phase, followed by phases costing 165 billion baht, 229 billion baht, and 85.1 billion baht.
