Phuket’s tram feasibility study on track for smooth ride ahead

The much-awaited tram project in Phuket, set to link Phuket International Airport with the Ha Yeak Chalong intersection, is advancing steadily as its feasibility study is on track to finish within six months.

Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit revealed yesterday that the 41.7-kilometre tram system’s study is being carried out by the Mass Rapid Transit Authority (MRTA), with intentions to present the findings to the MRTA board by June 2026.

Once the study is completed, the findings will be proposed to multiple entities including the Transport Ministry, the State Enterprise Policy Office, the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) committee, and the Cabinet. This process will take place between July 2026 and February 2027.

Following this, the bidding process for the work will be initiated and is projected to run from March 2027 to August 2028, revealed Suriya Jungrungreangkit.

“The construction is expected to kick off by September 2028, and the service will be operational by December 2031.”

To minimise traffic disruptions during the construction phase, Phuket authorities have plans to widen Highway Road No 402 and 4027. Additionally, underpasses have been designed to bypass five junctions along Highway 402 on the outskirts of Phuket City, further reducing potential traffic inconveniences.

The underpass tunnels, varying from 1.10 kilometres to 3.25 kilometres in length, will be positioned near Muang Thalang School, at Mut Dok Khao intersection, through Thalang district downtown, close to the Srisunthon municipality office and at the Ko Kaeo-Bang Khu intersection.

These infrastructure enhancements aim to alleviate potential congestion and streamline traffic flow during the construction of the tram system, reported Bangkok News.

In related news, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin visited Phuket last week to witness local police efforts to combat the so-called foreign mafia. Chai Watcharong, a spokesperson for the prime minister’s office, revealed the agenda for the prime minister’s Phuket visit, which will primarily revolve around progress reports on construction projects designed to ease traffic congestion in Phuket.