Tourism
Phuket Expressway Phase 1: Kathu-Patong Project Progresses
The Thai government has announced plans to advance the first phase of the Phuket Expressway, connecting Kathu and Patong, with a proposal expected by late 2026.
According to the Thailand Government Public Relations Department, authorities are moving forward with the development of the Phuket Expressway’s first phase, which aims to link the Kathu and Patong districts. This infrastructure project is designed to significantly improve connectivity, with officials estimating that the new route will reduce travel time between these two popular areas to approximately five minutes.
For residents and travelers, this development is notable as it addresses the long-standing traffic congestion issues often experienced on the winding mountain road currently connecting these two hubs. By providing a more direct transit option, the expressway could streamline daily commutes and tourist travel across the island.
However, the project is still in the planning stages. The government is scheduled to submit the proposal to the Cabinet for formal consideration by the end of 2026. If the project receives the necessary approvals and proceeds according to the current government timeline, officials anticipate that the expressway will be operational by 2031. Further updates regarding the project's budget, environmental impact assessments, and construction start dates remain to be confirmed as the proposal moves through the official review process.