Narathiwat Airport Expansion: Contractor’s Delays Threaten Project
Narathiwat Airport Terminal Project Faces Termination Due to Extensive Delays
The construction of the new passenger terminal at Narathiwat Airport in southern Thailand is embroiled in controversy. Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri is poised to terminate the contract with CIS Joint Venture due to significant delays. The project, originally scheduled for completion on January 16, 2025, is now 631 days behind schedule, raising concerns about project management and oversight. This delay is particularly concerning given the crucial role infrastructure development plays in boosting regional connectivity and economic growth in Thailand.
The 639.89-million-baht project, awarded to CIS Joint Venture—a consortium of ISO Engineering Co Ltd and China Railway No. 10 Engineering Group—began on March 15, 2022. The project, encompassing the terminal building and associated infrastructure in Tambon Khok Khian, Muang district, has progressed far slower than anticipated. While severe flooding in late 2024 necessitated a contract extension, progress remains woefully inadequate. As of March 2025, only 39% of the project was complete, significantly less than projected. The Department of Airports (DoA) mandated a minimum 5% monthly progress for March and April, a benchmark the contractor failed to achieve.
“The DoA has issued a formal warning and is monitoring this month’s progress,” stated Ms. Manaporn, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. As reported by the Bangkok Post, she has also ordered a thorough inspection of construction materials and equipment to ensure quality standards, demanding a detailed report within three days.
This situation mirrors challenges faced globally in infrastructure projects, where delays due to unforeseen circumstances, contractor mismanagement, and material shortages are common. Large-scale airport projects in other Southeast Asian nations have also experienced delays, underscoring the inherent complexities of such undertakings.
This delay significantly impacts Narathiwat province, hindering tourism and economic growth. The new terminal is envisioned as a vital regional gateway; its delayed completion will negatively affect local businesses and development plans. The DoA’s potential blacklisting of the involved firms could also have broader repercussions within the construction industry.
Furthermore, China Railway No. 10 Engineering Group’s involvement in other projects, such as the recently collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building, raises further questions about its project management capabilities. While the SAO building collapse was attributed to a Myanmar earthquake, it adds another layer of complexity and underscores the need for rigorous oversight of construction projects.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What are the consequences of contract termination? The DoA will likely seek a new contractor, potentially causing further delays and increased costs. The original contractor may also face legal repercussions.
- How is the government ensuring quality control in other projects? Ms. Manaporn has affirmed the Ministry of Transport’s commitment to rigorous monitoring of all public infrastructure projects through supervising engineers and comprehensive inspections of materials and equipment.
The Narathiwat Airport terminal delay serves as a stark reminder of the challenges inherent in large-scale infrastructure projects. The potential contract termination and subsequent blacklisting signal a firm stance by the Ministry of Transport against substandard performance and delays. The coming weeks are crucial in determining the project’s future and its impact on regional development. The government’s commitment to transparency and accountability is paramount to maintaining public trust and ensuring the successful completion of vital infrastructure projects in Thailand.
