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Thailand’s Prime minister faces mounting pressure to identify those responsible for a series of high-profile infrastructure failures, including a recent crane collapse and road subsidence, as public trust in the nation’s safety standards plummets. A Harvard University academic is urging swift action and accountability.
A Pattern of Instability Fuels Public Distrust
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Concerns are rising over repeated safety lapses in Thailand’s construction projects,leading to a significant decline in public confidence.
- Between 2018 and 2024, the construction project on Rama 2 Road experienced 2,242 accidents.
- These incidents resulted in 132 fatalities and 1,305 injuries.
- Experts are calling for a three-tiered control system and stricter safety regulations.
A comprehensive overhaul of safety protocols and a commitment to accountability are crucial.He emphasized that these problems are preventable, but require proactive planning and diligent oversight.
accountability Starts at the Top
Dr. Kriangsak asserted that obligation for these failures ultimately rests with the Prime Minister, who must exercise oversight at every level of government. This includes a thorough investigation to pinpoint the root causes of the problems and identify those responsible, from governance and governance to operational execution.He cautioned against blanket resignations,arguing that true accountability requires identifying and addressing individual failings.
“regarding the crane collapse incident in the high-speed rail and Rama 2 expressway projects, the Prime Minister should hasten to order an investigation into whether the government department issued good policies, regulations, and standards? Has the control been carried out to ensure compliance with the policies, regulations, and standards? and companies that provide construction contracting and support contractors Did you take full responsibility for their duties? Have followed the rules and academic and professional standards or not and prevented insecurity problems at every point Have you completed every step?” Dr. Kriangsak stated.
Raising Safety Standards Across the Board
The safety of Thai citizens is paramount, Dr. Kriangsak emphasized, calling on the Prime Minister to mandate improvements in safety standards across all ministries. This includes enhanced training for heavy machinery operators, especially crane operators, to meet international safety standards, coupled with certification to verify completion of training. Regular inspections of machinery, especially older or second-hand equipment, are also essential, with strict checklists and control systems in place.
Dr. Kriangsak also advocated for stricter oversight of contractors, including maintaining performance records, blacklisting those with poor histories, and implementing a grading system. He suggested leveraging technology,such as risk-reporting platforms,to proactively identify and address potential hazards. He believes that government bidding processes should prioritize safety standards as a non-negotiable requirement.
“thailand should prevent every matter to be the safest in the world. It uses learning methods from around the world about how countries, especially the safest ones, do it. to be
