Proposed Koh Chang Bridge Project Moves Forward
The Expressway Authority of Thailand has held a third public hearing for a 5.9-kilometer bridge project connecting Trat province to Koh Chang, with construction tentatively scheduled for 2031.
According to a report by Prachachat Business, the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) has conducted its third public hearing regarding the proposed 'Koh Chang Expressway' project in Trat province. The initiative aims to construct a 5.9-kilometer bridge connecting Laem Ngop to Koh Chang, featuring integrated rest areas and utility systems. The project is estimated to cost approximately 18.76 billion baht. Officials have outlined a tentative timeline that suggests construction could commence in 2031, with the bridge potentially opening for public use by the end of 2035. For residents and travelers, this infrastructure project represents a significant potential shift in how the island is accessed, moving away from the current reliance on ferry services. While the project has reached the public consultation phase, it remains a long-term proposal. Further details regarding environmental impact assessments, final budget approvals, and specific construction logistics are yet to be confirmed. Stakeholders and interested parties should continue to monitor official announcements from the Expressway Authority of Thailand for updates on the project's progression and potential impacts on local tourism and island logistics.
