Marine Link
Thursday, October 10, 2024

Thailand Port Expansion Opposed by Residents

Maritime Activity Reports, Inc.

July 3, 2012

Residents oppose construction of the third phase of the Laem Chabang deep-sea port, demand a halt in the project

The move comes after the Transport Ministry proposed a 120-billion-baht (US$ 3.7-billion) project over seven years to expand the busy Chon Buri port.

The port has undergone two development phases, and Transport Minister Jarupong Ruangsuwan is calling for a third phase, advised by Team Group.

The proposed expansion will increase the port's annual cargo-handling capacity to 18.8 million 20-foot equivalent units, sufficient for over the next two decades, while at present the port handles 55% of Thailand's exports and imports.

The port expansion is part of the projects aimed at connecting the Eastern Seaboard to a planned deep-sea port and industrial estate in Dawei, Myanmar.

The expansion affects more than 1,000 households in Bang Lamung district, said local resident Chokthana Uppatham.

The government is paying 25,000 baht a rai for land reclamation, while it costs more than 100,000 baht a rai to purchase land outside the area.

Some 200 households have no place to live – some are renting space in temples – and the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) is not providing any help, said Mr Chokthana.

 

Subscribe for
Maritime Reporter E-News

Maritime Reporter E-News is the maritime industry's largest circulation and most authoritative ENews Service, delivered to your Email five times per week