CHIANG RAI – The Department of Rural Roads says the underpass and road upgrade project at the Chiang Rai Government Complex intersection (rural highway ChR.1023) in Mueang Chiang Rai is now more than halfway done.
With a budget of 849.80 million baht, progress has reached 54%, and the work is moving faster than planned. Officials expect the project to finish in 2027.
Pichit Hunsiri, Director-General of the Department of Rural Roads, said the project covers a total distance of 1.635 kilometers. Crews are currently excavating and installing temporary support structures.
These supports help prevent the underpass walls from shifting during construction. The plan centers on an underpass tunnel at the intersection, built with 4 traffic lanes (two in each direction). The underpass length is 425.50 meters.
In addition, the project expands and upgrades the bridge over the Kok River. The improved bridge section runs 410 meters, with wider lanes to improve traffic flow. Workers will also upgrade the surrounding roadway along ChR.1023 near the Government Complex intersection.
The project includes new street lighting and other utility work to support safe, reliable travel through the area.
Once completed, the underpass is expected to ease congestion at a key bottleneck on ChR.1023, especially in front of Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport. As a result, trips to and from the airport should be faster and more predictable.
The Department of Rural Roads also expects better connections across the city as Chiang Rai continues to grow. Officials say the improvement should also support trade, transportation, and tourism in Upper Northern Thailand by making travel in this busy corridor easier.
The Department of Rural Roads has asked the contractor to pause construction during Songkran 2026 to help keep traffic moving and improve safety for drivers.
At the same time, the agency stressed the need for clear safety measures at the site, including visible warning signs and signal lights. The project team is also increasing water-spraying to reduce dust and keeping materials stored in safe, appropriate areas for both workers and road users.
