The new grade-separated interchange bypassing Korat city at the junction of Highways 224 and 290 has officially opened to ease traffic congestion in Nakhon Ratchasima city and upgrade the southern Isan transportation network.
Mr. Piyapong Jiwattanakulpaisan, Director-General of the Department of Highways (DOH), stated that the Department of Highways is committed to advancing the development and construction of road networks nationwide.Recently, the Department of Highwaysthrough the Bridge Construction Office has completed the construction of a grade-separated interchange at the intersection of Highway 224 and Highway 290 (the Korat city ring road).It is nowofficially open for transport sectors and the public to use, aiming to address severe traffic congestion, enhance logistics efficiency, and facilitate travel within Nakhon Ratchasima’s economic zones. As Korat serves as a gateway to the rapidly growing northeastern region, the Department has developed the highway network to accommodate and resolve traffic congestion in the city area.
However, the increase in the bypass route has created a major intersection on Highway 224 with a significant rise in traffic volume. Combined with the expansion of residential areas nearby, this has caused travel delays and directly impacted the transportation system, along with a rise in accident statistics. The Department of Highways recognizes these issues and the urgent need to address traffic problems at this intersection concretely.
The construction project of this grade-separated interchange will enable continuous traffic flow on the bypass without traffic lights. The construction budget is approximately 558 million baht. Key project features include two prestressed concrete bridges: the main bridge is a 330-meter-long precast segmental box girder with four traffic lanes, and a 359-meter-long cast-in-place box girder connecting bridge for specific directions. The pavement is reinforced concrete (JRCP) 25 centimeters thick to support heavy trucks and extend service life. Additionally, LED lighting and a drainage system to prevent surface flooding have been installed.
The opening of this project not only alleviates congestion and reduces accidents at this major intersection but also seamlessly links the transportation network, improves residents’ quality of life, and facilitates faster, lower-cost freight transport from northeastern Thailand to other regions.
The Department of Highways is committed to developing road networks to ensure convenience and safety for all travelers. For suggestions or further inquiries, the public can contact the Department’s 24-hour hotline at 1586.
Read more news: " Government Policy "