Thailand, a nation in Southeast Asia, is geographically characterized by a long, narrow peninsula that stretches between the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Ships traveling east-west in the region are forced to take a longer route, sailing south to Singapore, adding 1,200 kilometers to their journey. This geographical challenge has sparked renewed interest in an age-old idea, known as the “land bridge.”
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s Vision
Srettha Thavisin, the Prime Minister of Thailand, has reignited the concept of the land bridge, a notion that dates back 350 years. His vision is to create a route through the narrow Kra Isthmus, located near the Kraburi river’s mouth, which separates Myanmar and Thailand. The proposed land bridge would not be a traditional canal but a 90-kilometer-wide strip with two large-capacity ports or shipping terminals on either side, connected by an east-west economic corridor that may include an oil pipeline.
Historical Context
The concept of connecting the Indian Ocean Region and East Asia by shortening the sailing distance has a long history. It was first suggested by Thai monarch Narai the Great in 1677. However, due to feasibility concerns, the project did not materialize. In the 19th century, both Britain and France explored the idea, primarily for colonial interests. In 2021, the Thai government proposed the “Thai Land Bridge” as a modern alternative to the Kra Canal.
Goals and Potential Benefits
The 90-kilometer land bridge would feature road and rail networks to facilitate the transportation of goods to and from deep-sea ports on each coast. The benefits of this project include:
- Shortening the voyage by approximately 1,200 kilometers and 2 to 3 days compared to the congested Strait of Malacca.
- Reducing transport costs, minimizing piracy risks, and alleviating pressure on the Strait of Malacca.
- Creating job opportunities, particularly in southern provinces.
- Enhancing economic growth, potentially reaching 5.5% annually.
- Strengthening Thailand’s position as a key player in Southeast Asia.
Challenges and Considerations
While the idea of a land bridge is promising, it presents several challenges:
- Financial considerations: The project’s estimated cost is around 1 trillion baht ($27.44 billion), and Thailand looks to China for investment.
- Geopolitical ramifications: Deeper involvement with China may impact Thailand’s relations with the United States, Japan, and India.
- Viability concerns: Several China-backed infrastructure projects in the region have faced challenges, prompting questions about the land bridge’s feasibility.
- Environmental impact: There are concerns about potential damage to the environment and marine ecology, as well as impacts on tourism.
