Mr. Sak Siam Chidchob, the Minister of Transport, has presided over a regional seminar “MOT 2020 Move On Together” at the Hua Hin/Cha-Am Sheraton Resort & Spa on Wednesday 23rd September.
This is seminar was part of a dialogue to build awareness and understanding about Thailand’s transport system development strategy, with top executives of government departments, the private sector and members of the public in attendance.
The Minister said the economic recovery following the COVID-19 crisis needs the development of transportation systems by land, water, air and rail which are crucial to the future prosperity of regions south of Bangkok.
The Minister of Transport said that in order to accelerate measures to remedy affected people and restore the economy, significant progress has been made in all these transportation systems according to a 20-year National Strategy.
The panel discussion included the Rama 2 Road Expansion Project and proposals for airport developments including Hua Hin as an expanded international airport.
Development of land transportation systems include expanding Rama II Road and the construction of a new four-lane highway, starting from Wang Manao Junction, Pak Tho District, Ratchaburi Province, to the intersection of Highway 3510 at Nong Ya Plong District, Phetchaburi Province. This route will help lighten the traffic and increase the speed and flexibility in traveling from Bangkok to the South. Also to be expedited is the highway between Nakhon Pathom and Cha-am.
The ministry also plans to develop a common network between railways and intercity motorways under the Motorways + Rails Master Plan, as a new type of transport network linkage that will increase connectivity within the country and the ASEAN region.
The water transportation policy includes the development of transportation networks between the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman to make Thailand an important centre for water transportation in the ASEAN region.
The Ministry of Transport has also takes into account the safety of traveling. In collaboration with educational institutions has developed a rubber fender barrier to be introduced to reduce the impact of accidents.
This is a guide pillar from natural rubber using 60% natural latex with a simple production method. This will help reduce the severity of accidents, especially from motorcycle users. In addition to safety, it will help raise the income of rubber plantation farmers.
