Bangkok port’s move stalled pending government clarity

Bangkok Port’s transformation into a mixed-use development has been put on hold by the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT), as it awaits further instructions from the Transport Ministry.

The decision follows an order to relocate the port to Chon Buri, which was proposed to mitigate pollution and congestion in the city. However, it is presently unclear whether the entire port or only sections of it are to be moved.

Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri, who also oversees PAT operations, yesterday stated that the ministry will wait for further clarification from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. In pursuit of this order, a feasibility study has been commissioned, but the Transport Ministry is set to wait for explicit instructions from the 62 year old prime minister before taking any further action.

Manaporn suggested that only certain parts of the port need to be relocated to optimise space and enhance the quality of life for residents. This follows a similar plan proposed by the PAT in 2019 to transform the 2,353-rai area into a smart community. This project would have turned the port into a major transportation hub, supported by a mixed-use development.

As per the PAT’s proposal, the area would be divided into four zones. Zone A would feature office facilities and smart community residences, while Zone B would showcase a smart port equipped with modern amenities and semi-automated installations. Retail outlets, hotels, and department stores would populate Zone C, with warehouses and a sports complex designated for Zone D.

By implementing this development, the proportion of Thailand’s logistics costs to gross domestic product (GDP) would decrease to 0.77%, while maintaining the port’s yearly capacity at 1.4 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU), reported Bangkok Post.

The bidding process for a 32-rai plot necessary for the project’s land acquisition process has been announced but is currently on hold as the PAT awaits the Prime Minister’s official order, said Manaporn.

“We don’t know if the current plan is similar to the PAT proposal, as none of the official statements have been sent to the ministry.”