Saroj paid respects to the sacred figures at Government House for good fortune as he began his work as Deputy Secretary to Phiphat, affirming the Land Bridge project will proceed. He believes it will benefit Thai people and hinted at good news about toll reductions on expressways, with details expected soon.
At 08:15 on 27 Apr 2026 GMT+7, at Government House, Mr. Saroj Samart, Deputy Secretary to the Prime Minister for Political Affairs assigned to Deputy Prime Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, paid respects to the guardian spirit shrines, ancestral shrines, and sacred figures of Government House for auspiciousness after officially assuming his position.
Mr. Saroj updated on the progress of the Land Bridge project, following the Prime Minister and Phiphat’s plans to promote it within the government. He said it is their intention to make this project happen, as it has been studied extensively. The Prime Minister is committed to pushing it forward despite unforeseen events, such as the Middle East conflict encountered since the government took office. If realized, the project will benefit the people and the country now and in the future. Although it requires significant investment, the gains and the precaution against unpredictable future events justify it. The project will connect both seas, making it necessary to plan, study, and initiate. Mr. Saroj personally believes Phiphat will successfully drive this forward, as expected, and that once completed, it will benefit the population.
Regarding opposition in local areas, Mr. Saroj said it must be assessed honestly because differences always exist in society. However, decisions should be based on facts and outcomes. Phiphat has instructed to listen carefully to public opinions and prioritize the people's views.
On the progress of Phiphat’s previous idea to reduce expressway tolls to relieve public hardship, Mr. Saroj said this remains a key goal to lessen citizens' expenses. He noted that Phiphat, as Minister of Transport, speaks frankly and importantly, is well-intentioned, and puts people first. He believes this project will be completed successfully as it is already in the team’s plan. Details will be announced by Phiphat himself, and Mr. Saroj is confident it will happen soon.