Project part of Land Bridge scheme
A protest sign against the Land Bridge project in Chumphon's Phato district. The project has spurred local concerns over the severe impact on the environment. (Photo: Phusadee Arunmas)
The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has announced the establishment of a new panel to collaborate with the government on the long-discussed "missing link" railway project, a strategic transport line connecting Chumphon on the Gulf of Thailand with Ranong on the Andaman coast.The initiative is viewed as a crucial step in realising Thailand's ambitious Land Bridge project, which aims to transform the country into a logistics hub rivalling the Malacca Strait.
Southern railroads primarily serve provinces along the Gulf of Thailand. The proposed Chumphon-Ranong railway, spanning roughly 80-90 kilometres, would bridge the eastern and western coasts, creating a direct link between both sides, where new deep-sea ports are expected to be developed.
According to FTI chairwoman Pimjai Leeissaranukul, the Land Bridge represents a new geopolitical gateway for Thailand, positioning the nation as a strategic player in global trade routes.
