Bangkok: The Prime Minister has instructed the Ministry of Transport to terminate contracts with Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited for two projects following a crane collapse that caused damage to the Sikhiu-Rama 2 train line. He has also mandated the company be blacklisted and confirmed legal actions against the involved government officials.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, conveyed after a meeting focused on transportation construction safety that the Ministry of Transport will handle the implementation of necessary measures. The incident has raised significant concern among the public due to risks to both life and property. As advised by the Council of State and the Attorney General, the government will terminate contracts and blacklist those involved for public interest and safety, aiming to restore international confidence.
Regarding the possibility of reviewing other projects, the Prime Minister emphasized the immediate focus should be on current issues. He clarified that future regulation reviews would necessitate legislative amendments, which are not feasible without a functioning parliament. The Ministry of Transport is instructed to prepare necessary grounds for contract termination as per existing laws and will proceed with the details.
In response to queries about the State Audit Office building collapse, the Prime Minister noted that responsible executives had been penalized. However, he questioned why the contract had not been terminated despite the building's absence and emphasized the need for resolution. He indicated discomfort with allowing a contractor involved in multiple incidents to continue state work, and noted the necessity of finding new contractors to complete the remaining construction work, which is already 80% done. The government is prepared to seize security deposits if needed and to claim costs from those abandoning projects.
On legal actions against officials, the Prime Minister confirmed adherence to legal protocols. Addressing the student report card issue, the Comptroller General's Department announced forthcoming regulations expected by January or February 2026. This process, initiated by the former Minister of Transport, is a positive development now being enacted as ministerial regulation.
Regarding resurfaced photos of former Minister of Transport Saksayam Chidchob signing a contract, the Prime Minister dismissed them as politically motivated attacks, stating that all procurement processes follow regulations and are not politically influenced. He urged against political mudslinging and emphasized the importance of political peace for public satisfaction.
Clarifying his role, Mr. Anutin stated that he serves as the Acting Governor and Deputy Governor of the State Railway of Thailand.