Bangkok: "Siripong" asks people not to worry, "Xin Ke Yuan" emphasizes that steel work for railway tracks is separate from work for high-rise buildings.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Deputy Minister of Transport, addressed concerns regarding steel standards for infrastructure projects after the Steel Association submitted an old warning letter to the Ministry of Transport. This development has arisen amidst apprehensions over Xin Ke Yuan Steel Co., Ltd. resuming steel production, which some fear may impact the quality of steel used in construction projects. Mr. Siripong clarified that the steel standards for railway construction differ from those for high-rise buildings, emphasizing that they adhere to distinct scientific principles and regulations.
The Ministry of Transport, through the Department of Rail Transport, has already implemented standards to ensure safety in rail works, Mr. Siripong noted. Each type of steel is evaluated based on its specific properties and load-bearing capacities. He affirmed that the Ministry is open to providing input if any agency wishes to apply these standards to building constructions, highlighting the importance of considering perspectives from organizations like the Council of Engineers.
Mr. Siripong further announced plans to establish a committee dedicated to investigating railway accidents. This initiative aims to standardize guidelines for supervision, compensation, and investigation, thereby reducing external interference. The proposed committee will be responsible for setting criteria for future rail system cases, although it will require consultation with various agencies and experts.
Addressing the issue of Xin Ke Yuan Steel Co., Ltd., Mr. Siripong stated that inquiries should be directed to the Ministry of Industry, which is responsible for inspecting steel standards and overseeing structural engineering. Regarding progress on fare adjustments, he mentioned that discussions with relevant agencies are ongoing and that clarity on the matter will be provided soon, anticipating benefits for the public, especially in Bangkok.
Mr. Siripong also touched upon the potential collaboration between the Mass Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) for the management of the Green Line extension. He emphasized the necessity of cooperation from the BMA to facilitate a unified ticketing system and streamline initial payments.