New route set to reduce Bang Khu traffic jams

PHUKET: In an effort to reduce traffic congestion at the Bang Khu underpass construction site (where the bypass road intersects with Thepkrasattri Rd, at Toyota Pearl), officials are testing a new route that requires switching off traffic lights at the normally busy intersection.

Starting on October 1, motorists heading from town to Koh Kaew will have to turn left and then make a u-turn near the Premium Outlet Mall. However, motorists travelling on the bypass road to Koh Kaew, as well as those driving from Koh Kaew headed toward town, can freely drive through the intersection, Somkiet Yimpong, Bang Khu underpass’ project engineer told the Phuket Gazette.

The test will take place over several days, after which officials will decide whether or not the new route is successful in reducing traffic jams.

“The underpass project should be finished as planned on September 14, 2017. However, we aim to complete it beforehand,” Mr Somkiet added.

— Nattha Thepbamrung