New M9 motorway to connect Bangkok districts in 2029
The Cabinet has given the green light for a significant new infrastructure project: a 35-kilometre M9 motorway aiming to connect Bangkok’s Bang Khunthian district with Bang Bua Thong district in Nonthaburi.
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced this development, highlighting its potential to alleviate traffic congestion on Kanchanaphisek Road’s western side and enhance connectivity with Bangkok’s network of outer ring roads.
This ambitious undertaking involves a substantial 47.5 billion baht (US$1.4 billion)investment through a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The chosen investment format, known as PPP Net Cost, allows the selected private partner—determined through a bidding process—to invest primarily in the motorway’s construction.
In return, the partner will have the right to collect toll fees for three decades following the motorway’s opening, projected to occur in about four years.
The bidding process is expected to commence late next year, with the contract anticipated to be signed in the latter half of 2026. The motorway is slated for completion and opening in 2029.
The government plans to share the financial burden of both land expropriation, estimated at 4.25 billion baht (US$124 million), and the construction costs with the private partner.
Approximately 33 rai of land will need to be expropriated for this project. The government has committed to contributing its share of the investment through annual instalments over at least 15 years from the M9 motorway’s opening.
Designed with six lanes, the M9 will feature eight entrances, six exits, and five separated intersections. An automatic toll collection system will be in place to streamline operations and enhance user experience.
For four-wheeled vehicles, the initial toll will be set at 10 baht (US$0.3), with an additional charge of 1.5 baht (US$0.04) per kilometre. Six-wheeled trucks will incur a starting fee of 15 baht (US$0.4) and 2.40 baht (US$0.07) per kilometre thereafter.
Vehicles larger than six-wheeled trucks will face a starting fee of 25 baht (US$0.7) and 3.45 baht (US$0.1) per kilometre. These toll rates are subject to review and potential adjustment every five years, reported Bangkok Post.
The motorway project is expected to yield significant economic benefits by reducing transport and logistical costs, shortening travel times, and fostering economic growth. It will support the expansion of the manufacturing sector and generate employment opportunities, contributing positively to the region’s economy.
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