Phiphat highlights his vision to connect the two coastal sides, the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, proposing the strategic Kapoe-Chaiya route to support industrial logistics and link Ranong tourism to Samui, elevating Thailand’s economy nationwide.
On 21 June 2026, Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, emphasized his vision to advance the national transport network during a visit to Surat Thani Province. He recommended the road project connecting the two seas—the Andaman (Kapoe District, Ranong Province) and the Gulf of Thailand (Chaiya District, Surat Thani Province)—along with developing the Phum Riang pier. The aim is to transform Thailand’s logistics and tourism systems to maximize benefits from seamless infrastructure for all citizens. The visit included Mr. Chumpot Wanchatsirisri, Governor of Surat Thani; Mr. Kraisorn Wisitwong, Deputy Prime Minister’s Advisor; Mr. Satha Khawkhum, Advisor to the Minister of Transport; Mr. Songyosin Chanpathip, Inspector General of the Ministry of Transport; local MPs; and related agencies.
Mr. Phiphat revealed that the Kapoe-Chaiya connecting road project will ease travel for residents of the two provinces and serve as a "new economic route" vital for linking the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. This strategic road will unlock logistics transport potential for industry, making it faster and more efficient while simultaneously boosting Thailand’s tourism sector significantly. In particular, it will create a network enabling tourists from the Andaman side (Ranong) to conveniently cross over to world-class destinations like Koh Samui in Surat Thani, attracting substantial investment into the national economy.
The project involves widening existing roads and building new ones over a total distance of 47.28 kilometers, shortening travel by more than 70 kilometers and cutting travel time from 2 hours 30 minutes to just 1 hour 45 minutes. It integrates with three other Department of Highways development plans: widening Highway 4191 shoulders, constructing an interchange at Highway 41, and building the Chaiya bypass road to maximize travel efficiency. The Ministry of Transport prioritizes sustainable development, ensuring every step undergoes comprehensive feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments (EIA).
Furthermore, at 1:30 p.m., Mr. Phiphat visited the site to review plans for developing the public passenger pier for tourism in Phum Riang Subdistrict, Chaiya District. The goal is to upgrade water transport to be modern and safe while linking marine tourist sites. This development will help distribute income to local communities, coastal fishermen, and small business operators, strengthening the grassroots economy in a tangible way at the local level.