The Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat) plans to propose a land expropriation decree this year to pave the way for the 16.2-kilometre Chalong Rat expressway extension.
The project connecting Chatuchote in Bangkok with the Lam Luk Ka area in Pathum Thani was approved by cabinet on Tuesday.
Exat governor Surachet Laophulsuk said land plots covering more than 471 rai have been designated for expropriation, which could be completed before September next year. He said the proposed decree is expected to be ready for submission to the cabinet this year, adding bid envelops will be offered two months from now.
Once completed, the expressway will ease the transport of goods between Bangkok and neighbouring provinces and alleviate traffic congestion on Rangsit-Nakhon Nayok road and adjacent roads, said Mr Surachet. The project costs, estimated at 24 billion baht, comprise land expropriation expenses of 3.72 billion baht and construction costs of 20.33 billion baht.
The land expropriation expenses will be funded by the government while 14.37 billion baht of construction costs will be raised through Thailand Future Fund and the other 5.96 billion baht from bonds.
The 16.2km expressway involves an inbound-outbound six-lane elevated route. It begins at the Chatuchote tollgate near the eastern side of Outer Ring Road, heading east towards Hathairat Road and Nimitmai Road in Bangkok before moving northeast to connect with Lam Luk Ka Road in Pathum Thani.
There are three tollgates with a free-flow system, and entry and toll fees are collected based on the size of vehicles and the distance travelled.