Thailand’s capital relocation proposal faces opposition
A proposal by a lawmaker from the Pheu Thai Party for the relocation of Thailand’s capital to Nakhon Ratchasima has been met with opposition from a House study. The study suggests that such a move would require a significant budget and a referendum for decision-making.
The Interior Ministry, tasked with forming a House committee to examine the proposal, indicated that the issue is complex and would necessitate a comprehensive impact assessment and substantial financial resources. The committee advised strengthening the infrastructure around Bangkok and its neighbouring provinces, deemed more practical given Bangkok’s susceptibility to sinking.
The proposal was initially introduced by Patchara Jantararuangtong, a Pheu Thai Party member of Parliament for Nakhon Ratchasima, during a House session on October 12, 2023.
In response, the Cabinet decided on November 28, 2023, to empower the Interior Ministry to gather opinions on two potential solutions: relocating the capital or constructing a barrier system to mitigate Bangkok’s sinking issue.
On February 4 this year, the Cabinet reviewed the panel’s findings. State agencies agreed that a referendum is necessary for any decision on moving the capital, alongside an impact assessment due to the project’s significant investment. The study noted that such a project would significantly affect businesses, employment, and residents’ lifestyles.
The study favoured constructing a sea barrier or establishing regional centres to alleviate the administrative burden on central agencies in Bangkok.
It also included analyses from the Transport Ministry and the Department of Public Works and Town and Country Planning, examining Nakhon Ratchasima’s infrastructure, including highways and high-speed railways connecting the province with other regions.
Further research on water resources is deemed essential to ensure sustainable long-term development and ecological balance. Additionally, the study recommended comparing the project with capital relocations in other countries for valuable insights.
A request for funding has been submitted to state officials to support a study assessing the potential impact of increased seawater intrusion in the Chao Phraya River, along with future sea level rise projections, reported Bangkok Post.
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