A new $308 million bridge linking the island of Phuket with mainland Thailand is being proposed. The suggested project would be a suspension bridge measuring around 1,000m in length and carry Highway 402 across the Chong Pak Phra channel to Phang Nga Province.
This would be the fourth bridge linking Phuket with the mainland with the first link, the Sarasin Bridge, having been opened officially in 1967 but now being restricted for use by pedestrians. A parallel crossing to the Sarasin bridge, the ThepKrasattri – Srisoounthorn Bridge, opened to drivers in 2011 and carries two lanes of traffic in either direction.
However, this new bridge would expand capacity and provide a faster link for drivers. This project would help develop the island’s tourism sector further, a key for the local economy.
Other transport infrastructure projects planned include the Patong Tunnel project and the Muang Mai to Kathu Motorway.
There are questions as to the need for the new bridge as well as environmental concerns over the potential disturbance caused by the construction process. Although the existing road crossing suffers delays, some locals point to delays at the checkpoints being the cause of tailbacks.
A feasibility study for the suspension bridge was commissioned by the Department of Highways and is being carried out, with this due to be ready at the close of 2026. Environmental concerns mean that the new suspension bridge would not feature supports in the channel.
