Bangkok: The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has ordered the closure of 56 establishments across the city after conducting strict safety inspections. Progress is being made in two major investigations: a brewery fire in the Lat Phrao area and the "Father Thip" case, while the BMA reiterates that the recently received anti-corruption award is a collective achievement of all its personnel.
According to Thai News Agency, Bangkok Governor Chatchart Sittipunt discussed the progress in upgrading safety inspection measures following the brewery fire. The BMA has collaborated with the Royal Thai Police and related agencies to revise inspection guidelines, implementing a 17-point safety checklist. The administration is utilizing authority under the Public Health Act B.E. 2535 (1992) and other relevant laws to enforce safety standards in establishments citywide.
Governor Chatchart stated that of the 1,091 establishments under the BMA's jurisdiction, 824 have been inspected over the past three days. While 217 met the required standards, 551 were ordered to make improvements, and 56 faced temporary closure due to significant safety deficiencies. Businesses with minor issues are allowed to address them before reopening, whereas serious risks lead to immediate closure.
The BMA plans to continue these inspections for the next two months, including follow-up checks. Businesses will be required to provide certification from engineers or experts for elements not visible through observation, such as electrical systems and insulation materials, to confirm compliance with safety standards.
Since the launch of the Traffy Fondue system for public reporting of suspicious activities, 27 reports have been received and are under investigation. This weekend, Bangkok will host a meeting with business operators to discuss the standard checklist, aiming to create a shared understanding and promote responsibility for customer safety.
Inspections will extend beyond service establishments to include public assembly buildings and entertainment venues, totaling approximately 14,000, including boxing arenas. These inspections will ensure compliance with building inspection laws, with annual checks and major inspections every five years by independent inspectors.
Regarding the brewery fire investigation, Governor Chatchart appointed the Director of Chatuchak District to assist, ensuring transparency and preventing operation disruptions. A committee has been formed to oversee the overall fire incident investigation.
In the birth registration fraud case, Governor Chatchart reported progress, with some officials suspended from duty. He emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation, adhering to regulations, and the need to wait for the central investigation results conducted by the BMA's Permanent Secretary.
The BMA has implemented stringent procedures following the fraud case, addressing initial laxity due to trust in hospitals. Queueing systems have been introduced in some districts to prevent personalized service by specific staff members. Governor Chatchart stressed the importance of vigilance and rigorous investigations into any ongoing corruption.
Fact-finding committees have a 30-day initial investigation period, extendable if necessary to ensure fairness. A committee has been established to investigate the running track project, with all ongoing investigations expedited to ensure regulatory compliance.
Governor Chatchart, while commenting on receiving the Outstanding Individual in Anti-Corruption Award for 2026, attributed the honor to all BMA personnel. He expressed gratitude to the Anti-Corruption Foundation and pledged to enhance the organization's transparency and good governance, recognizing that significant work remains.