Thailand unveils transport development policy to boost infrastructure

Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit unveiled an extensive policy for the country’s transport infrastructure development, aiming for improvements across short, medium, and long-term phases.

During a meeting with transport organisations under the Paetongtarn Shinawatra administration, Suriya, along with his two deputies, presented a strategic policy guideline encompassing nine key points to be executed in three distinct phases.

Suriya emphasised the need to fast-track pending transport investment projects as an initial priority. Enhancing the efficiency of Thailand’s transport network to integrate seamlessly with international networks was also highlighted as a crucial step.

The ministry plans to engage more with private investors, offering them broader roles in new government transport projects. By doing this, the dependency on state budgets would be reduced with the infusion of business investments.

Improving public access to government-operated transport systems is another focal point. Suriya mentioned that better cost management could lead to lower fares while maintaining quality service. He also stressed the necessity of upgrading the country’s logistics to reduce associated costs.

Clean energy development will be prioritised as part of the transport development program. Ensuring safety standards from construction to operation for new transport projects was outlined as essential.

Suriya pointed out that transport organisations and agencies under the ministry will operate with greater accountability and adherence to laws and good governance principles. Public input will be invited to maximise the performance of public transport operations.

“Short-term policies are urgent, while medium-term ones span one to three years. Long-term policies last five years or longer.”

Among the immediate tasks, completing the long-overdue Rama II Road construction project was identified as a critical priority, reported Bangkok Post.

In related news, Airports of Thailand Ground Aviation Services anticipates that its newly inaugurated Multimodal Transportation Centre at Suvarnabhumi Airport will bolster Thailand’s position as a regional logistics hub, enhancing goods transportation among Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam.