Kathu–Patong expressway targets 2031 opening
The government plans to send the tunnel expressway to Cabinet in December 2026, start construction in October 2027 and open in October 2031.
Phase 1 of the Phuket expressway would link Kathu and Patong through a tunnel under the hill, cutting the trip from about 30 minutes to five. The revised design narrows the tunnel from 17 to 14 metres.
The planned timeline is:
- December 2026: submission to Cabinet
- January 2027: land acquisition complete
- April 2027: contractor selected
- October 2027: construction starts, expected to take four years
- October 2031: opening
The road is expected to carry 50,000 to 60,000 vehicles a day.
What this means for buyers and investors
It mainly helps Patong and Kathu. A five-minute link would make Kathu a practical, cheaper base for people who work in Patong, and make Patong easier to reach from the airport side of the island.
Five years away, with steps that can slip. Cabinet approval, land acquisition and bidding all have to happen on time. Treat the expressway as a possible bonus, not the reason to buy.
Limited effect on Kamala and Bang Tao. These areas are reached by the coast road and the airport side of the island. Less traffic through Patong may help a little, but buyers there should not pay a premium for this project.
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