Thailand targets inflated mud removal fees in flood-hit areas

Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan has directed Thailand’s Department of Internal Trade (DIT) to initiate legal actions against backhoe operators in flood-affected provinces for inflating mud removal fees.

Following visits to Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai over the weekend to assess the flood damage and expedite recovery efforts, Pichai received complaints about backhoe operators charging exorbitant fees for mud removals from homes.

The minister emphasised that the DIT, along with provincial commercial offices, would ensure fair pricing and the public display of service fees. Operators who fail to display their fees face fines of up to 10,000 baht, while those caught overcharging could face up to seven years in prison and/or a maximum fine of 140,000 baht.

Bangkok Post reported that the department will also monitor other vendors and businesses closely. Pichai released a statement, pleading for operators to not overcharge flood-affected victims.

“The ministry asks for cooperation from backhoe operators to keep the mud clear-up fees unchanged to help flood-affected people. Do not aggravate their miseries.”

Consumers are encouraged to report any unfair practices or overpriced goods from operators to the DIT’s 1569 hotline or provincial commerce offices.

Yesterday, September 29, the ministry distributed 2,000 cleaning kits, including blankets and mattresses, to residents in Chiang Mai and other flood-affected areas to assist with house cleaning efforts after floodwaters receded.

Additionally, plans are in place to sell affordable consumer goods under the Thong Fah scheme in flood-hit towns and deploy Thong Fah mobile units to remote areas, aimed at alleviating the cost of living for affected individuals, Bangkok Post reported.

In related news, Thailand’s Interior Ministry initiated a disciplinary investigation against the outgoing Chiang Rai governor, Puttipong Sirimart, after his repeated absences during critical flood-relief operations in the province.

Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the probe yesterday, September 29, just one day before Puttipong’s scheduled retirement.