Bangkok: Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, has refrained from commenting on the potential expansion of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) to Prachinburi, stating that the matter falls under the jurisdiction of the Prime Minister.
According to Thai News Agency, Pipat addressed the concerns of local villagers in Prachinburi province who have been protesting against the inclusion of their province in the EEC. He emphasized that the Prime Minister is in charge of overseeing EEC-related decisions. Pipat also mentioned that Suchart Chomklin, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, is scheduled to visit the area to tackle issues of waste and pollution following a recent cabinet meeting.
Pipat further clarified that he was not informed of the details regarding potential impacts on villagers' livelihoods due to capitalist interference. He suggested directing inquiries about the EEC to Chula Sukmanop, Secretary-General of the Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee, and urged patience until the Prime Minister returns to provide further guidance.
When questioned about his previous involvement as chairman of the Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee, Pipat revealed that Prachinburi was proposed for EEC expansion during his tenure. He had assigned the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) to assess its feasibility in adding to the existing three provinces: Rayong, Chonburi, and Chachoengsao. However, no definitive conclusion has been reached as NESDC has yet to deliver its study results.
Additionally, Pipat addressed the potential political implications of the opposition leader's visit to Prachinburi, expressing no concern as the Ministry of Industry and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment are both responsible for examining the local issues.
Turning his attention to opposition against government projects, such as the deep-sea port in Chana District, Songkhla Province, Pipat stressed the importance of reasoned opposition. He criticized the tendency of some opposition parties and NGOs to block government initiatives without thorough study, urging the public to weigh the benefits and drawbacks before forming opinions.
Pipat also discussed the revival of the Chana Industrial Estate project, asserting it is not a new initiative but one previously approved by the Cabinet under General Prayut Chan-o-cha's government. He advocated for its revival to stimulate economic growth in the southern provinces.
Finally, Pipat addressed social media claims of inciting protests against the government, expressing his indifference to potential protests as long as participants understand the reasons behind their actions. He noted that the Land Bridge project has been cancelled and the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC) project is on hold, inviting protestors to voice their concerns but stressing the need for informed reasoning.