Bangkok: Korn Chatikavanij, the deputy leader of the Democrat Party, has proposed a new development initiative, 'Southern Connect,' following the cancellation of the controversial Land Bridge project. Korn expressed gratitude to the government for reconsidering the project, which was shelved due to concerns about its risks and financial viability.
According to Thai News Agency, Korn shared his thoughts on social media after Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ekniti Nitithanprapha, announced the project's cancellation. The decision came after a government-established committee concluded that the Land Bridge project faced significant operational and investment risks. Korn, who had previously advocated for reviewing the project's feasibility in Parliament, acknowledged the government's willingness to listen and learn from past experiences, emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making.
The Democrat Party, recognizing the need for development in the southern region, has proposed the 'Southern Connect' plan. This initiative includes significant infrastructure investments, such as constructing a motorway from Narathiwat to Bangkok, establishing a double-track railway system connecting Thailand's and Malaysia's rail networks, and developing efficient deep-sea ports on both sides of the Thai sea. The party aims to support investments that are beneficial to both entrepreneurs and the general public.