Fai Chai Tunnel Opens Today After 13-Year Long Construction

After a 13-year long construction period, the Fai Chai Intersection tunnel in Bangkok Noi opens for use today. Located at the junction of Charan Sanit Wong, Phran Nok, and Phran Nok Phuttamonthon Sai 4, and lying under the Fai Chai MRT Station, this new underpass is expected to alleviate traffic congestion in one of the city’s worst affected areas.

Initially beginning in 2009, the project costs THB788 million, and was carried out by Kamphaeng Phet Wiwat Construction under the tenure of ex-Bangkok governor during the period, Sukhumbhand Paribatra.

The extended construction period was largely a result of disputes over the underpass’ overlap with the Bang Sue-Tha Phra section of the MRT blue line, requiring numerous negotiations over the years concerning the tunnel size and design. The opening of the project came after current Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipunt instructed the Public Works Department to go full steam ahead to prevent further delays and to challenge the traffic issue head on.

However, the inaugural opening is only the first phase of the project’s completion, as there are some structures that are yet to be completed. The underpass is currently open for use between 5 AM and 10 PM and will continue to undergo maintenance during off hours.