Bangkok councillors support port relocation to ease congestion

Bangkok councillors have thrown their weight behind the Transport Ministry‘s proposal to shift the capital’s port operations to a new location, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce air pollution.

Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri announced yesterday, August 13, that five councillors have formally backed the plan through a letter submitted to the ministry.

Kittipong Ruayfupan, Bangkok councillor for Thung Khru district, led the group in urging the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) to expedite the relocation process. He highlighted the significant impact on traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, and suggested that easing this congestion would also help address the problem of fine dust pollution.

“The land can be repurposed for other beneficial uses, such as residential, commercial, and retail spaces, or new landmarks.”

Manaporn affirmed that the Transport Ministry is prepared to proceed with plans to optimise the port area for public benefit.

In a related matter, Bangkok MP Bhuntin Noumjerm raised questions during a House debate last week, asking Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga whether the Energy Ministry had evaluated the feasibility of relocating oil depots in Klong Toey and Yannawa districts. Bhuntin also inquired about policies or guidelines for disaster prevention in such scenarios.

Pirapan responded that any move of the oil warehouses, as part of PAT’s port development plan, would necessitate a thorough assessment of the impact on pipeline transportation systems and the new location’s residents.

“This is because the oil depots and refinery facilities, including the oil transportation system network, have been established in the area for a long time.”

He also noted that relocating these facilities would be an expensive endeavour requiring compensation to the private sector. Should the relocation proceed, the ministry intends to collaborate with local agencies and oil companies to implement safety measures and provide training for handling emergencies or critical situations, reported Bangkok Post.