Thai PM Denies 'Land Bridge' Project Shelved, Hints at Revival Based on Circumstances

Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Srettha Thavisin has stated that the government has not shelved the 'Land Bridge' project, but rather is proceeding according to the current situation. He indicated that the railway connection project (Missing Link) would facilitate swift implementation, followed by the development of ports on both coasts. The Land Bridge project can be revisited and dusted off whenever the time is appropriate, necessary, or geopolitically suitable. Regarding the development of the Ranong port, the Prime Minister mentioned that details on whether to build a new port or develop an existing site require further study. He noted that upgrades and enhancements to ports on both sides would be necessary. However, he clarified that he has not yet discussed the detailed study results with Mr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, who chairs the committee studying the implementation guidelines for the transportation infrastructure development project to link the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea (the Land Bridge project), following his discussions with the Ministry of Transport. The Prime Minister added that numerous other projects are underway, and port development on both coasts may be required. He also stated that the Missing Link project would be beneficial for logistics connectivity, as the current railway network does not extend to the western part of Thailand, and this project would enable such a connection. When asked about the timeline for convening the meeting of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Policy Committee, which he chairs, the Prime Minister said he expects to meet with Mr. Chula Sukmanop, Secretary-General of the EEC, soon after July 28. In response to a question about the possibility of contract termination, the Prime Minister indicated that it has not reached that stage. He explained that terminating major contracts is not easy and requires detailed consideration, emphasizing that any contract termination must have the mutual consent of both parties. He also noted that government contracts are typically very robust, and while government breaches are rare, there are established processes for resolution and compensation. Contract terminations between the government and private entities are uncommon due to the stringent nature of such agreements. Source: INN News