Phuket expressway moves ahead, opening targeted for 2031

On 16 September 2026, Thailand is advancing with the initial phase of the Phuket Expressway, a project linking Kathu and Patong. This new route aims to shave travel time between the two locations from approximately 30 minutes to just five minutes. Ploythalay Laksameesaengjan, deputy government spokeswoman, announced that the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand has forwarded the project to the Transport Ministry, with design adjustments underway, such as reducing the planned tunnel width from 17 metres to 14 metres.

The revised design is presently under review by relevant agencies before submission to the Cabinet for approval in December 2026. Following approval, bidding will commence, with the selected contractor anticipated by April 2027. Land acquisition is slated to conclude by January 2027, with construction to begin in October 2027, ultimately completing in September 2031.

The opening of the expressway is planned for October 2031. The first phase will incorporate interchanges at Patong and Kathu, connecting the expressway to existing road networks. Ploythalay explained that this initiative is designed to offer an alternative to congested roads, alleviating physical and traffic capacity constraints, while enhancing access to tourist hotspots and commercial zones.

It is also expected to improve road safety and overall transport efficiency in Phuket. Upon completion, the first phase is expected to accommodate between 50,000–60,000 vehicles daily, including motorcycles.