Thai land bridge project faces concerns over land disputes

Private companies, eager to invest in the Thai government’s ambitious land bridge project in the south of the country, voiced concerns over potential legal hurdles that could impede the construction of the mega project. The project aims to establish a crucial link between the Pacific and Indian oceans in the southern region of Thailand.

Chumphon and Ranong are to act as hosts for the construction of the megaproject. Coupled with the revamping of transportation routes connecting these ports, this project is envisioned as a remedy for the shipping congestion plaguing the Malacca Straits.

The land bridge captured the attention of domestic and international investors alike as they looked to maximise profits by alleviating sea congestion.

During a market-sounding seminar hosted by the Transport Ministry yesterday, private investors raised concerns regarding land ownership issues within the project areas which belonged to private owners.

The owners of the land, however, lacked proper title deeds, posing a significant challenge to the expropriation process.

Without valid title deeds, landowners may not receive adequate compensation as per land expropriation laws, potentially triggering legal disputes that could significantly delay land acquisition.

Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri assured attendees that the ministry is actively engaging with landowners in the two southern provinces to garner support for the project.

“Our latest survey indicates widespread support for the land bridge, with only a minority expressing opposition or seeking additional compensation.”

In addition to addressing land ownership concerns, the ministry is diligently preparing the Environmental and Health Impact Assessment (EHIA) report for the project, slated for completion by the year’s end.

Manaporn emphasised that the land preparation process is expected to proceed smoothly, quenching fears of potential delays.

Furthermore, the ministry aims to propose the draft Southern Economic Corridor Act to the Cabinet in September. This legislation is poised to serve as a catalyst for the land bridge project, offering legal clarity, investment incentives, and tax benefits to prospective investors.

Once approved by the Cabinet, the draft legislation will proceed to Parliament for enactment, with completion anticipated before 2025.

The seminar witnessed participation from over 100 Thai and foreign private companies, including prominent entities such as K Line, Interasia Lines, China Harbour, and Evergreen Container.

Noteworthy attendees also included representatives from diplomatic missions of Myanmar, Japan, Pakistan, and India, underscoring the project’s regional significance and international interest, reported The Nation.