Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, has conducted an inspection of the M6 ??Bang Pa-in - Pak Chong railway line, in preparation for its trial opening on August 21st. The new expressway, which will offer free travel every weekend, is anticipated to enhance economic and tourism prospects in the Northeast by providing a more convenient and safe travel route ahead of its full opening in 2027.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pipat highlighted the importance of the M6 as a key infrastructure project facilitating travel from Bangkok to the Northeast. The 196-kilometer route aims to serve as an alternative to Phahonyothin and Mittraphap roads, thereby reducing travel time, traffic congestion, and transportation costs. The expressway is expected to impact trade, investment, tourism, and logistics positively.
The expressway's opening will streamline travel to the Northeast, with particular emphasis on the scenic Pak Chong-Lam Ta Khong section. This development is set to bolster weekend tourism and economic activity along its route, making it easier for people to visit local attractions, dine, and explore Nakhon Ratchasima and other northeastern provinces.
The Ministry of Transport is set to open the 110-kilometer Bang Pa-in - Pak Chong section for trial use on August 21, 2026. The expressway will be accessible every weekend from Friday noon to midnight Sunday, connecting with the existing Pak Chong-Nakhon Ratchasima bypass section to improve weekend travel continuity.
Mr. Pipat emphasized that the trial opening must prioritize "convenience and safety for the public." He urged vigilance in scenic areas such as Lam Ta Khong to prevent accidents and promote responsible road use.
For the next phase, Mr. Pipat has instructed the acceleration of remaining works to enable the full 196-kilometer route to open for free public use during the 2027 New Year holiday. This will be followed by a trial run and simulated operations before transitioning to full service and toll collection.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Mr. Chayatham Phromsorn, stated that safety remains the top priority during the trial period. Speed limits will be enforced, and only four-wheeled vehicles will be allowed. Highway police and officials will maintain increased surveillance to ensure compliance.
Mr. Piyapong Chiwatnakulpaisan, Director-General of the Department of Highways, reported that preparations for the trial opening include deploying staff and emergency assistance systems. Coordination with local police and rescue units in Ayutthaya, Saraburi, and Nakhon Ratchasima is underway to manage traffic and emergencies effectively.
The project has achieved a 99.37% completion rate for civil construction as of July 2026. The design and construction of toll plazas and related systems, under a public-private partnership, have reached 92.32% completion. The Department of Highways is committed to expediting remaining work to ensure the entire route's trial opening by the 2027 New Year holiday, with full services and tolls by April 2027.