Thailand advances Phuket transport plans spanning roads, rail, ports and airports
The Transport Ministry is prioritising measures to ease Phuket congestion and improve safety while advancing road, rail, port and airport projects.
Thailand’s Transport Ministry is advancing plans to address traffic congestion and road safety problems in Phuket through projects covering roads, rail, water transport and aviation, Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said on 29 October 2026.
Phiphat met representatives of the Phuket Tourism Association, Phuket Chamber of Commerce and Phuket Federation of Thai Industries to hear concerns and proposals on the province’s transport infrastructure. Phuket is a major international tourism destination, but rapid growth has put pressure on its roads and public transport system, the ministry said.
The meeting highlighted congestion and safety problems at several locations, including Phuket International Airport junction, the Thao Thep Kasattri and Thao Si Sunthon monument, Lotus Samkong junction, Ko Kaeo junction, Chalong intersection and the Kathu–Patong route.
Phiphat instructed relevant agencies to assess traffic data and local proposals, including road improvements, traffic-signal management, junction upgrades and stronger safety measures. The ministry said urgent measures would be considered alongside longer-term infrastructure planning.
For road transport, the ministry plans to advance the Kathu–Patong Expressway and the New Town–Ko Kaeo–Kathu Expressway. It also plans to improve routes connecting to Phuket International Airport and other major highways, while studying a new Sarasin Bridge to provide another travel option and ease congestion.
Rail plans include the double-track railway project from Surat Thani through Phang Nga to Tha Nun, along with a study of a connection to Phuket International Airport. The ministry also plans to develop Phuket’s mass-transit system between the airport and Chalong Circle.
For maritime transport, the ministry is promoting a large cruise terminal and an Andaman ring-port network linking Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi, together with improved navigational safety. In aviation, it is advancing Phase 2 of Phuket International Airport’s development and studying the feasibility of an Andaman airport.
Phiphat assigned agencies under the ministry to prioritise the proposals and projects that can be accelerated, while continuing to coordinate with local authorities and the private sector.
