INFRASTRUCTURE

Progress on infrastructure projects in EEC updated


Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai chairs meeting with EEC Board on four major infrastructure development projects. The construction of the high-speed airport rail network and development of U-Tapao Airport are expected to begin in January next year, according to the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) board meeting.

The infrastructure projects under development are:

High-speed rail connecting three airports (Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi and U-Tapao airports): The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) and its private partners proposed a revision to the project's public-private partnership (PPP), which was approved by the Cabinet on March 27, 2018, to the EEC board. This revision is expected to go to the Cabinet by July, the EEC board said.

U-Tapao Airport and the Eastern Aviation City: The Royal Thai Navy has announced the bidding for the construction of the airport's second runway and taxiway. The EEC board expects the technical proposal consideration to be conducted by June this year, and the construction to be completed within this year. The airport is expected to be opened by 2029, it added.

The third phase of Laem Chabang Port: Marine construction work on its F port was 29.02 per cent, covering the completion of the first and second land reclamation.

The third phase of Map Ta Phut Port: Infrastructure work is 80.93 per cent completed. Work on the liquid cargo port was 30.95 per cent completed, and part of the third phase project is expected to be completed by 2027.

Separately, the EEC board has approved the draft environmental plan, for which the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry has appointed EEC Office to propose the Cabinet. This plan aims to ensure a balance between EEC development and environmental preservation, as well as promoting investment in sustainable business, the board said.

The plan consists of four strategies:

  • Waste & Emissions (31 projects): Improve wastewater treatment, waste management, and emission reduction.
  • Resource Sustainability (65 projects): Manage resources, land, and water sustainably.
  • Sustainable Business (40 projects): Support environmentally friendly businesses and build resilience against climate change and disasters.
  • Innovation & Tools (54 projects): Develop tools like eco-friendly manufacturing tech for industries.

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