BEM is investing 50 billion baht to expedite the construction of a bridge connecting Koh Samui, supporting alternative travel options for tourism in Southern Thailand. The plan includes upgrading airport runways and collaborating with partners to accelerate the development of comprehensive utility infrastructure, with service expected to begin in 2028.
Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, presided over the signing ceremony of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to advance the construction of a Koh Samui connecting bridge valued at over 50 billion baht. This marks a major collaboration among four government agencies to support utility infrastructure systems: BEM, the Provincial Electricity Authority, the Provincial Waterworks Authority, and National Telecom Public Company Limited. The initiative aims to enhance access to world-class tourist destinations and strengthen foundational infrastructure security for residents in the area.
The Koh Samui connecting bridge project spans approximately 37 kilometers, featuring an elevated route over the sea linking Koh Samui in Surat Thani Province, passing through Don Sak District, and ending at Khanom District in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. The project’s significance lies not only in providing 24-hour access to and from the island, addressing current limitations of ferry services, but also in its design as a resilience bridge. It will integrate critical basic utilities such as water pipelines, high-voltage power lines, and telecommunications networks alongside the bridge itself to prevent damage caused by natural disasters or maritime accidents, which have historically affected underwater cable systems.
Economically and for tourism, this project is expected to be a key driver in income distribution, benefiting not only Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao but also positively impacting mainland areas such as Khanom and Sichon districts. A significant influx of investment in hotel and service businesses is anticipated to accommodate tourists seeking convenient connections between the mainland and the islands. Public consultation results show over 90% support from local residents and business operators. The project is expected to be submitted to the Cabinet in 2027 after completing the environmental impact assessment (EIA), with auctioning planned for 2028 and service commencement in 2033.
Mr. Pipat emphasized three proactive recommendations: first, advance traffic management planning on Koh Samui to prevent congestion problems similar to those experienced on Phuket Island; second, enforce strict safety measures during the monsoon season, including possible traffic closures during severe weather; and third, expedite development of Nakhon Si Thammarat and Surat Thani airports by extending runways to accommodate large international aircraft, which will help reduce congestion at Samui Airport and establish a comprehensive travel network.
“The study process will prioritize comprehensive public and stakeholder consultation alongside consideration of other transportation system linkages, especially Surat Thani and Nakhon Si Thammarat airports, which have potential to support future travel and tourism. It will also include systematic planning to manage tourist volumes and congestion on Koh Samui. This project will help distribute income and create economic opportunities in surrounding areas such as Khanom and Sichon districts. The government will continue infrastructure development responsibly, without rushing, balancing economic growth, quality of life, and the environment to maximize long-term benefits for the public,” Mr. Pipat stated.
, State Policy Additional