Phuket —
Deputy Transport Minister Sornspech Boonyamanee on Sunday (June 28th) oversaw progress on the improvement of a key U-turn point along Highway 402 near Koh Kaew Pier in Phuket. The project, set at easing traffic congestion and enhancing road safety, is expected to be completed and fully operational by 2028.
Accompanied by senior officials including Winai Koo-Mueang, Director of the Phuket Highway District, Atcha Buachan, Phuket Transport Chief, and Adul Ruekmul, Director of the Phuket Marine Office, the minister reviewed plans to convert a temporary U-turn into a permanent facility. The upgrade is designed to reduce bottlenecks, improve traffic flow, and provide safer access for both residents and tourists.
The Department of Highways has proposed a budget of more than 600 million baht for fiscal year 2027 to address traffic issues along the 26-kilometer stretch of Highway 402. The plan covers resurfacing, U-turn construction, drainage systems, sidewalks, and traffic monitoring technology.
Initial funding from leftover allocations in fiscal year 2026 has already been approved for improvements at two U-turn points, at kilometer markers 31 and 36, with contractors set to begin work soon. If the broader budget receives final approval, seven additional U-turns will be upgraded across Phuket, bringing the total to nine.
The Koh Kaew Pier U-turn, located near Ban Yi Teng, is considered one of the most critical projects due to its role in alleviating traffic choke points and supporting long-term mobility for locals and visitors alike.
