Thailand is accelerating plans for its long-mooted 'Land Bridge' project, aiming to create a crucial logistics link between the Indian and Pacific oceans. Recent disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have provided fresh impetus for the ambitious initiative, which would offer an alternative to the congested Malacca Strait.
The government is now seeking to attract Singapore as a potential investor for the scheme, which is estimated to cost approximately 1 trillion baht ($30.97 billion). Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn indicated that a proposal is expected to reach the cabinet in June or July, with construction potentially commencing in the third quarter.
The Land Bridge envisions two deep-sea ports—one in Ranong on the Andaman Sea and another in Chumphon on the Gulf of Thailand—linked by 90 kilometres of road and rail, along with energy pipelines. This infrastructure would provide a viable alternative route to the Malacca Strait, through which over 100,000 commercial ships passed last year.
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul discussed the plan with Singapore's Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing on Monday. A government spokesperson said Chan viewed the project as an economic opportunity for both Thailand and foreign investors, expressing interest in the proposal.
The Land Bridge is considered more feasible than the 'Kra Canal' concept, which faced resistance due to environmental, financial, and security concerns. The project had previously stalled amid political instability and incomplete public hearings and environmental assessments, as well as some local opposition.
