THE Transport Ministry has put off submission of a 1-trillion-baht Land Bridge project and draft Southern Economic Corridor (SEC) bill for its implementation to the cabinet for a year in order to gather and evaluate feedback from all sectors, PPTVHD36 said today (July 8).
The Land Bridge project is designed to connect two seas – the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand – between Ranong and Chumphon to accommodate seagoing mercantile ships whilst a six-lane motorway and dual-track railways are designed to link the southern coastal provinces with the western and central regions of the country.
Thailand will not be investing in the megaproject only providing land concessions for investors to carry it out.
Deputy Transport Minister Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat said a three-party committee, comprising the government, administrators, and the public, had been set up to jointly study and determine development guidelines for the southern economy, as well as consider the suitability of various projects to meet the needs of the local people.
The aim is to finalise gauging public opinion and various proposals within one year, he said, adding this does not mean the Land Bridge project has been cancelled, but rather it is to provide an opportunity for greater public and stakeholder participation to ensure it is fully accepted by all parties.
Results of previously studies will be used to support new proposals and opinions of the public in order to determine the most appropriate project model.
If public consultation shows that this project should be modified or developed in phases, the ministry will adapt it in context of the area. The main goal is to enhance the economic potential of the South while fostering genuine public understanding and participation.
CAPTIONS:
Top and Front Page: Representative image of the Land Bridge project. Photo: Naewna
Insert: Deputy Transport Minister Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat. Photo – PPTVHD36
Earlier reports:
Democrats, senators receive petition from anti-land bridge protesters
Land Bridge project to be tabled to cabinet soon
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