News

Kata Residents Demand Investigation Into Deadly Landslide, Urge Preventive Measures

Published

5 months ago

August 27, 2024

In the aftermath of a devastating landslide that claimed 13 lives, residents of Kata have formally requested a thorough investigation into the incident, along with the implementation of preventive measures to avoid future tragedies. The landslide occurred last Friday, August 23, and has since sparked significant concern within the local community.

Community’s Call for Action
The letter requesting an investigation was delivered by Chalong Loi-Samut, a representative of the affected community, during a gathering at Wat Kittisangkaram (Wat Kata). The state news agency NNT reported that the residents are not only seeking answers about the cause of the landslide but are also urging authorities to install warning systems to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Evidence of Long-Standing Concerns
Mr. Chalong also presented documents that had been previously submitted to local authorities, including a letter from 2020 and photographs of a landslide that occurred 11 years ago. These documents highlight the community’s long-standing concerns about the safety of the Nakkerd hills and the risks faced by villagers living at its base. The evidence underscores the ongoing fears about the area’s susceptibility to landslides, which have now tragically come to fruition.

Government Response
The community’s plea has garnered attention from key officials, including Phuket Vice Governor Sattha Thongkham and Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee. Both officials have expressed their commitment to addressing the issue and ensuring that similar disasters are prevented in the future.

MP Chalermpong announced plans to coordinate with various government agencies, including the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), to investigate the destruction of the forest on the Nakkerd hills. He also intends to work with the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Interior to address concerns about Buddhist commercial activities in the area and expedite the installation of warning systems.

Deputy Governor Sattha Thongkham confirmed that the governor has already requested action from MNRE Permanent Secretary Jatuporn Buruspat. The focus will be on ensuring that all construction and land use on the Nakkerd hills comply with legal regulations.

Restoration Efforts
In addition to the investigation, immediate efforts are underway to clear mud and debris from homes and roads in the affected areas. These efforts aim to restore a sense of normalcy for the residents, who remain vigilant as the ongoing rainy season continues to pose further risks.

Conclusion
The Kata community’s demand for an investigation and preventive measures reflects a deep concern for safety and a determination to prevent future tragedies. With the support of government officials, the investigation will seek to uncover the causes of the landslide and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to protect the community. As the rainy season continues, the urgency of these actions cannot be overstated.

News

Thai PM Launches Monthly TV Program to Connect with Citizens

Published

11 hours ago

January 30, 2025

Wadi

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra initiated her first monthly television show on Sunday, marking a new era of direct communication between the government and the Thai people. This innovative approach aims to keep citizens informed about the administration’s progress and future plans.

Inaugural Episode Highlights

Government Achievements and Vision

In her debut broadcast, Paetongtarn outlined her government’s accomplishments during its first 90 days in office. She presented a comprehensive overview of the administration’s initiatives under the campaign theme “2025: Empowering Thais, a Real Possibility”.

Long-Term Structural Policies

Addressing National Challenges

The Prime Minister detailed six long-term structural policies, including strategies to combat floods, drought, and PM2.5 air pollution. Additionally, she discussed plans to tackle drug trafficking, dismantle monopolies, and invest in large-scale future projects.

2025 Initiatives

Empowering Communities and Education

Paetongtarn announced five key initiatives for 2025, including the revival of the “One District, One Scholarship” program and the introduction of the “One District, One Summer Camp” project. These programs aim to enhance educational opportunities and language skills for Thai students.

Grassroots Development

Strengthening Local Communities

The government plans to implement the Village and Community Development Programme (SML Project) to empower local communities. This initiative, along with efforts to resolve household debt and provide affordable housing, demonstrates the administration’s commitment to improving citizens’ quality of life.

Connecting with the Public

Transparent Governance

By launching this monthly TV show, Paetongtarn is fostering a more direct and transparent relationship with the Thai people. This platform allows her to share progress reports, address concerns, and outline future plans in a more accessible format.

Looking Ahead

Building a Stronger Thailand

As Paetongtarn continues to lead Thailand, her focus on both long-term structural changes and immediate community-focused initiatives reflects a comprehensive approach to governance. Through this regular TV program, she aims to keep the public engaged and informed about the country’s development.

News

Bangkok Intensifies Battle Against Air Pollution

Published

12 hours ago

January 30, 2025

Wadi

Bangkok is taking decisive action to combat the persistent issue of air pollution, particularly PM2.5 particles. The city administration is implementing a series of measures to improve air quality and protect public health.

Proposal for Air Pollution Control Area

BMA Seeks Enhanced Authority

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is set to propose that the government declare Bangkok an air pollution control area. This designation would grant the BMA more power to address haze pollution effectively, including access to the environment fund for financing anti-pollution efforts.

Traffic and Transportation Measures

Restrictions on Heavy Vehicles

To reduce emissions, the BMA is banning non-registered six-wheeled trucks and larger vehicles from entering low-emission zones within the city’s inner ring road. AI-equipped cameras are monitoring compliance, with violators facing fines up to 2,000 baht.

Promotion of Public Transport

The government has implemented free public transport services, resulting in a 50% increase in electric train ridership and a 15% decrease in traffic on major roads. This initiative is supported by a 140 million baht budget to compensate transport operators.

Workplace Adaptations

Encouraging Remote Work

The BMA is urging companies to allow employees to work from home, aiming to reduce vehicle emissions and overall air pollution levels.

Upcoming Air Quality Concerns

Forecast and Precautions

Officials predict increased PM2.5 levels from January 30 to February 5, 2025, due to low air ventilation and temperature inversions. Residents are advised to wear masks, avoid outdoor waste burning, and refrain from using vehicles that emit excessive black smoke.

Current Air Quality Status

Monitoring and Reporting

The BMA’s Air Quality Information Centre reports that PM2.5 concentrations in Bangkok’s 43 districts are currently at “moderate” levels, averaging 32.8 micrograms per cubic metre of air, below the safety standard of 37.5μg/m3.

News

Thailand Revamps Peace Efforts: New Negotiation Team to Address Southern Conflict

Published

12 hours ago

January 30, 2025

Wadi

Thailand’s government is taking steps to address the long-standing conflict in its southern region by forming a new peace negotiation team. This move comes as part of the administration’s renewed focus on resolving the decades-long insurgency in the Deep South.

Strategic Overhaul

Reassessing Approaches

Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced the plan to establish a new negotiation team, emphasizing the need for a thorough review of strategies. The government aims to convene discussions with all stakeholders within two weeks to form the new team, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

Leadership Uncertainty

Potential Candidates

The leadership of the new team remains undecided. It could either be the previous team or a newly appointed one, with the final decision pending a comprehensive evaluation of past strategies. Chatchai Bangchuad, a deputy secretary-general of the National Security Council, previously led peace talks under the former prime minister.

Challenges and Concerns

Persistent Violence

Mr. Phumtham expressed concern over the increasing frequency of violent attacks in the region. The ongoing conflict, which has persisted for over two decades without resolution, raises questions about the effectiveness of current approaches.

Ceasefire Difficulties

Negotiation Hurdles

Despite previous negotiations, a ceasefire agreement has never been successfully reached. This failure highlights potential misalignments between opposing political and military groups, casting doubt on the efficacy of further negotiations.

International Dimension

Malaysian Involvement

The Barisan Revolusi Nasional Melayu-Patani (BRN) rebel group has criticized the government for delays in forming the new negotiation team. This criticism followed Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s official visit to Malaysia, where bilateral cooperation and peace-building efforts were discussed.

Government Commitment

Addressing Challenges

Mr. Phumtham, who also serves as the defense minister, reaffirmed the government’s active commitment to addressing the challenges in the Deep South. This commitment underscores the administration’s determination to find a lasting solution to the conflict.