Thailand’s Democrat Party opposes Southern Land Bridge project
The Democrat Party said it opposes the Land Bridge megaproject, insisting that local residents in the affected areas must first approve any development.
Chaichana Detdacho, deputy leader of the Democrat Party overseeing the southern region, together with Meesak Pakdikong, the party’s MP candidate for Chumphon Constituency 3, on Tuesday met with locals to discuss economic development issues, particularly the Land Bridge megaproject.
Representatives from local environment groups Rak Phato Network and the Rak Ranong Network joined the discussion, reaffirming their opposition to the project. They also submitted a letter to the Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva calling for a clear policy on sustainable southern development.
Mr Chaichana told the meeting that the party does not support the megaproject, and he questioned what the government and the people gain from it. He added that if elected to Parliament, he and Mr Meesak, along with other Democrat MPs, would continue their opposition to it.
Mr Abhisit commented on the candidates’ objection to the Land Bridge, stating that the project is not economically justifiable. Other infrastructure and transport development projects, he said, would remain the party’s focus for the South.
Mr Abhisit also announced plans for major campaign rallies in Bangkok at Benchasiri Park on Jan 11 and City Hall on Feb 6, as well as several provinces nationwide, including Narathiwat, Songkhla, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Surat Thani and Rayong.
He also outlined policy proposals such as a universal old-age allowance of 1,000 baht, improved compensation for village health volunteers, farm income guarantees and expanded free education.
The comments from the Democrats came several days after Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul visited the Ranong municipal fresh market, saying the province has strong potential and is ready to help drive Thailand’s economy.
He said that the megaproject would be a key mechanism to elevate the province’s development, alongside policies such as the Khon La Khrueng (half-half) Plus co-payment scheme to stimulate the economy and generate cash circulation.
Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/3170193/democrats-oppose-land-bridge-project
