Airports of Thailand (AoT) has announced a landmark decision to allocate 12 billion baht as compensation for residents affected by noise pollution from the new third runway at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The payout is a response to ongoing concerns raised by residents about the disruptive noise levels caused by increased aircraft operations at Thailand’s busiest airport.
Key Details of the Compensation Plan
Addressing Resident Concerns
The decision was finalized during a meeting on November 25 involving:
- Airports of Thailand (AoT)
- Transport Ministry
- Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)
Transport Ministry deputy spokesperson Kittiphon Ruayfuphan confirmed that the compensation rate is legally compliant and aims to address concerns from residents who live near the newly constructed runway.
Compensation Categories
Residents affected by the noise pollution have been divided into three categories:
- Legally Entitled: Residents who meet all criteria and can receive compensation promptly.
- Land Ownership Issues: Individuals with problematic documentation who will receive assistance to rectify their paperwork.
- Technically Ineligible: Residents without land ownership, whose eligibility depends on surveys conducted by the Pollution Control Department to confirm the impact of noise pollution.
BMA’s Role in Resolving Noise Pollution
Facilitating Claims
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has stepped in as a mediator to guide affected residents in filing compensation claims. BMA council chairperson Surajit Phongsingwitthaya stated that:
- Officials are expediting the evaluation of claims.
- Residents are being informed about the necessary steps to file for compensation.
- The first batch of payments is expected to roll out early next year.
Noise Survey and Assessment
The Pollution Control Department will conduct additional surveys to assess the full impact of noise pollution on residents living near the third runway. This will help determine eligibility for individuals not meeting the usual criteria.
The Third Runway’s Impact on Suvarnabhumi Airport
Enhancing Flight Capacity
The new third runway measures 4 kilometers in length and 60 meters in width, running parallel to the first runway on the western side. Primarily designed for landings, it has significantly boosted the airport’s operational capacity:
- From 68 flights per hour to 94 flights per hour.
This improvement is critical for accommodating Thailand’s growing air traffic demands.
Balancing Growth and Responsibility
While the third runway strengthens Thailand’s position as a major aviation hub, the AoT’s decision to compensate affected residents highlights a commitment to balancing development with social responsibility.
Timeline and Next Steps
- Claim Evaluations: The BMA and AoT are fast-tracking claim assessments.
- Documentation Support: Assistance will be provided to residents with incomplete or problematic land ownership records.
- Survey Completion: The Pollution Control Department will finalize noise impact assessments.
- First Payments Issued: Eligible residents are expected to receive compensation early next year.
AoT’s 12 billion baht compensation plan reflects a significant effort to address the concerns of residents affected by noise pollution from Suvarnabhumi Airport’s third runway. As Thailand continues to expand its aviation infrastructure, this initiative serves as a reminder of the importance of community well-being in the face of progress.
Ref – Thaiger
