Southern Thailand Development Master Plan Under Siripong's Oversight, Incorporating Public Input for Land Bridge Project

Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angkasakulkiat has been appointed chairman of the committee tasked with developing a master plan for the development of southern Thailand. This initiative follows a directive from the Prime Minister to Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn to engage with the SEC Watch group. Mr. Siripong stated that the Ministry of Transport has proposed to the cabinet that the committee will study development directions for the southern region, focusing on transportation methods that incorporate public opinion. These findings will then be used to formulate policies concerning southern Thailand. "From now on, any projects, whether they are missing links, deep-sea ports, or the Land Bridge, will require the input and approval of the public through this committee before they can proceed or be cancelled," Mr. Siripong explained. Regarding the timeline for the study, Mr. Siripong expressed his intention to conclude the master plan within one year if possible. He emphasized the desire to complete the plan within the current government's term to avoid the need to restart the process if it extends to the next administration. The committee's first meeting is scheduled to coincide with the mobile cabinet meeting in Songkhla province. The committee's composition includes representatives from the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Industry, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council, the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy Planning, the private sector, and representatives from SEC Watch. Local Members of Parliament will also serve as advisors. This development signals a commitment to ensuring public participation in the planning of significant infrastructure projects in southern Thailand, potentially influencing the trajectory of initiatives like the Land Bridge.