The route between Kathu and Patong is being upgraded this month with road safety repairs and smart city technology, but the works come with temporary disruptions that buyers, renters and residents should understand.
The Phuket Highway District has begun resurfacing Route 4029 over Patong Hill between the ‘Patong City’ sign and Soi Khuan Yang, a one-kilometre stretch covering some of the route’s sharpest curves. The works are scheduled from May 19 through May 25.
At the same time, the Bang Khu Underpass tunnel will be closed overnight from May 19 through May 31 for installation of a remote monitoring and control system aimed at improving traffic management. The tunnel will be closed nightly from 8pm to 5am throughout the project period.
Why the works are happening
According to the Phuket Highway District, the resurfacing work is focused on repairing hazardous sections on curves, increasing road friction and helping prevent vehicles from skidding. The Patong Hill route is one of the island’s most heavily used roads, connecting Kathu, Patong Beach and central Phuket.
The Bang Khu Underpass upgrade is part of a wider smart city infrastructure push, with the new monitoring centre designed to improve real-time traffic management and incident response.
Officials have apologised for the inconvenience and advised motorists to plan journeys in advance and avoid affected routes where possible.
What this means for Patong and Kathu property
For buyers comparing locations, infrastructure quality matters. The Patong Hill route is the main artery between Patong’s beachfront and the inland areas of Kathu, including residential developments, schools and shopping centres.
Improved road safety and smart traffic systems could make the route more reliable for residents, rental guests and property managers who rely on predictable access between these two areas. For villa and condo owners who rent to tourists, easier and safer road access during high season is a practical advantage.
The works also suggest continued government investment in infrastructure around one of Phuket’s most established tourism zones, which may support long-term property values in both Patong and Kathu.
Short-term disruption, longer-term improvement
The overnight tunnel closures will affect late-night and early-morning travel for nearly two weeks, while the Patong Hill resurfacing will cause delays during the day for one week. Property managers, villa staff and rental operators should factor this into guest communications and travel planning during the affected period.
Once complete, the upgrades are expected to improve road conditions on a stretch known for sharp curves and heavy traffic, particularly during the high season from November through April.
The Phuket Highway District has also encouraged the public to report road damage, potholes, broken streetlights, faulty traffic signals or fallen trees by calling 076-212179 during office hours or the 24-hour Department of Highways hotline at 1586.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Patong Hill road works be completed?
The resurfacing works on Route 4029 over Patong Hill are scheduled from May 19 through May 25. The Bang Khu Underpass overnight closures will continue through May 31.
What is the smart city upgrade at Bang Khu Underpass?
The upgrade involves installation of a remote control and monitoring centre designed to improve real-time traffic management and incident response in the tunnel, part of a wider smart city infrastructure initiative.
Will the works affect property access in Patong or Kathu?
Yes, temporarily. The Bang Khu Underpass will be closed nightly from 8pm to 5am through May 31, and delays are expected on Patong Hill during daytime resurfacing works through May 25. Alternative routes are available.
Why is the Patong Hill route being resurfaced?
The Phuket Highway District is repairing hazardous sections on curves, increasing road friction and improving safety to help prevent vehicles from skidding on one of the island’s busiest roads.
How can I report road damage or safety issues on Phuket highways?
The Phuket Highway District can be reached at 076-212179 during office hours. The Department of Highways 24-hour hotline is 1586.
Sources
- The Phuket News — Highway works to affect Patong Hill, Bang Khu underpass — link
