PHUKET — Authorities have unveiled an ambitious blueprint to tackle the island’s long-standing issues of traffic congestion, water shortages, and limited marine infrastructure. The plan, presented at a high-level seminar chaired by Governor Sophon Suwannarat, brought together foreign consuls, state agencies, and private sector stakeholders to discuss nine road projects, a new water supply scheme, and the redevelopment of Yamu Port.
Tackling Traffic
The Department of Highways reported progress on nine major road projects designed to ease bottlenecks, particularly between Phuket City and the airport. Highlights include:
- Highway 4027 expansion from Ban Thalang to Ban Muang Mai (650 million baht, completion 2026).
- New highway link from Ban Muang Mai to the airport (completion 2028).
- Upgrades to Highway 402 from Khok Kloi to Phuket town (700 million baht).
- Construction of Highway 4030 from Thalang to Rawai Beach (325 million baht).
- Plans for Highway 4025 (Tha Ruea–Choeng Thale) and Highway 4031 (Mud Dok Khao–Phuket Airport).
Traffic management on Highway 402, Phuket’s busiest artery, is also being upgraded with redesigned intersections and safety enhancements at nine locations.
Securing Water Supply
To ensure long-term water security, the Provincial Waterworks Authority is preparing a public-private partnership project to divert raw water from Ratchaprapa Dam in Surat Thani to Phuket. Feasibility and impact studies are underway, with tenders expected by late 2027.
Marine Infrastructure Upgrade
The Marine Department confirmed that Yamu Port in Thalang district will be redeveloped into a community marina, aligning with the government’s Andaman masterplan. The upgrade aims to provide safe year-round access for yachts, boost marine tourism, and cement Phuket’s role as a regional marina hub.
A Sustainable Vision
Governor Sophon emphasized that the integrated plan reflects a broader vision for Phuket’s role in global tourism and logistics.
“These projects are designed not only to solve local issues like traffic and water shortages, but also to strengthen Phuket’s global connectivity and competitiveness,” he said.
The combination of infrastructure, water management, and maritime development marks one of Phuket’s most ambitious modernization pushes in years.