BANGKOK, Thailand – The Transport Ministry is seeking 600 million baht from the central emergency budget to expedite construction on Highway No. 35, also known as Rama II road. The funds are intended to boost contractor liquidity and address rising costs of materials and services, with the goal of accelerating work on the road, which has been plagued by delays and has caused significant traffic congestion and accidents.
Caretaker Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit stated that once the funds are approved, construction on the section from Bangkok’s Dao Khanong area to Wang Manao subdistrict in Ratchaburi province can proceed more quickly. The ongoing construction has been a major source of frustration for travelers, particularly those heading to the resort town of Hua Hin, which has seen a decline in visitors due to the traffic disruptions.
Currently, there are three active construction projects on Highway No. 35, including the elevated expressway No. 82 (Ekachai – Ban Phaeo), the elevated highway No. 35 (Bang Khun Thian – Ekachai), and the upgrading of Bangkok’s Outer Ring Road on the western side. (NNT)
