Thailand’s Ministry of Transport has mandated the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) to expedite essential expressway projects intended to alleviate traffic congestion and bolster transportation efficiency nationwide. This directive was issued during a meeting presided over by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Pipat Ratchakitprakarn in Bangkok.
The convening on May 14, 2026, occurred at the EXAT Management Center, involving key officials from the Ministry of Transport alongside EXAT executives, focusing on future infrastructure ambitions, road safety enhancements, and sustainable transport systems tailored for Thailand’s burgeoning urban locales.
Deputy Prime Minister Pipat underscored that the government regards the expansion of the expressway network as a crucial national objective. He articulated that improved road connectivity would significantly cut travel durations, alleviate traffic issues, and foster long-term economic prosperity, ultimately enhancing the lives of the populace across the nation.
The Ministry instructed EXAT to prioritize expediting several key rapid projects, which include the Rama 3–Dao Khanong–Western Bangkok Outer Ring Road Expressway and the Chalong Ratch Expressway Extension, linking Chatu Chot and Lam Luk Ka Road. Authorities highlighted the necessity of prioritizing public safety throughout all phases of construction, particularly in high-traffic zones like Rama 2 Road.
Further, the government has called for quicker advancements on additional projects aimed at facilitating Bangkok’s urban growth and economic vitality. Among these are the Srinakarin–Suvarnabhumi Expressway initiative and the Chalong Ratch–Eastern Bangkok Outer Ring Road Expressway. Officials are also engaged in comprehensive studies concerning a planned double-deck elevated expressway spanning Ngamwongwan and Rama 9.
In southern Thailand, initiatives are also underway to bolster regional economic development through the Phuket Expressway Phase 2 project, which encompasses the New City, Koh Kaew, and Kathu segments. The government is set to present this project for Cabinet approval as part of the overarching urban development strategy in Phuket.
Governor Surachet Laopulsuk of EXAT remarked that the agency is thoroughly equipped to execute the ministry’s directives and complete significant projects on schedule. He noted that EXAT is also enhancing construction safety protocols, traffic management strategies, and public services to ensure a smoother, safer travel experience for all drivers.
The agency is embracing digital technology and contemporary transportation innovations. EXAT continues to advance the Easy Pass automated toll collection system and improve the EXAT Portal mobile app to offer expedited and convenient services for expressway users throughout Thailand.
EXAT reports that approximately 57.61 percent of vehicles utilize the Easy Pass system, with plans to elevate this figure to 70 percent by 2028, aiming to improve traffic flow, decrease toll booth wait times, and minimize fuel consumption stemming from congestion.
Additionally, EXAT reiterated its commitment to sustainable transportation under its Green Transport initiative. The agency aims to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent by 2030 and seeks to attain net-zero emissions by 2065 through the adoption of clean energy technologies, solar rooftop installations, LED lighting updates, EV charging stations, and increased integration of electric vehicles within its operations.
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