Hua Hin, August 28, 2023 – A delegation led by Mr. Nonnaporn Wuttikul, the Mayor of Hua Hin Municipality, conducted an on-site visit yesterday to address residents residing along Chomsin Road. The visit was prompted by delays in the ambitious project to widen the thoroughfare, which was intended to alleviate traffic congestion in the area.
Accompanied by key municipal officials, including members of the Hua Hin Municipal Council, the Municipal Clerk, the Director of Public Works, and relevant personnel, Mr. Wuttikul explained the reasons behind the project’s unexpected delays.
The endeavor, which sought to expand Chomsin Road from a dual-lane carriageway to a three-lane avenue, aimed to cater to the growing vehicular traffic in the area. The stretch often witnessed severe congestion, especially during peak hours, holidays, and festivals. The project was undertaken in two distinct sections, both involving the expansion of road space at the expense of pedestrian walkways.
The initial phase, spanning from Wat Suwannaram Hua Hin to Ji-An Junction, was successfully completed, with only minor finishing touches remaining, such as road markings. However, it was the subsequent portion, extending from Ji-An Junction to Pramong Intersection, that encountered unexpected structural challenges.
Upon opening the newly widened segment, it became apparent that the structural integrity of key drainage components, namely drain covers and pipe chambers, fell short of requirements. Deterioration of steel reinforcements and concrete weakening rendered these vital elements inadequate to bear the weight of vehicular traffic. An immediate consultation was initiated with experts from Rajamangala University of Technology to assess the situation.
The standard criteria stipulated a minimum drainage chamber density of 240, yet inspections revealed an average density of merely 140 at certain points, with some areas measuring 152 and 177. This discrepancy raised safety concerns, as continued operation without addressing these shortcomings could lead to the road’s deterioration, endangering commuters.
Efforts to rectify these structural inadequacies are expected to span approximately 100 days. The resolution process involves the casting of new drainage components, including covers and pipes, followed by their strategic replacement across various locations. The goal is to ensure a resilient pedestrian walkway and a robust road surface, promoting safety and ensuring a smoother traffic flow.
This unexpected setback underscores the complexities involved in large-scale infrastructure projects and highlights the importance of rigorous planning and execution. The public announcement aims to provide clarity to residents regarding the reasons behind the project’s delay and the subsequent efforts being undertaken to ensure a safe and efficient roadway system in Hua Hin.