Speaker Sophon Takes Charge of Parliamentary Issues Including Flooding and Waste Management

Bangkok: "Sophon" has accepted responsibility for all parliamentary work, addressing issues such as flooding, waste management, and electricity concerns. Speaker of Parliament Sophon Saram has taken decisive steps to tackle the drainage problems within the parliamentary building, following the discovery of inappropriate design features. He has also mandated stricter measures for waste management and the promotion of waste separation.

According to Thai News Agency, Speaker Sophon Saram highlighted the flooding incident on May 21st, where rainwater inundated the B1 floor's waste storage area, leading to floating garbage. He explained that while some view the construction as flawed, he could not confirm this without a personal inspection. The heavy rainfall caused water to pour from the first-floor vehicle ramps to the B1 floor, overwhelming the drainage system. His inspection revealed that the 9th floor, designed to receive water with small drainage pipes, experienced flooding due to inadequate drainage during heavy rains. Corrective measures have been ordered, including addressing inappropriate design features, such as the absence of roofs on fire escape routes, to prevent future occurrences.

Mr. Sophon has emphasized the importance of waste management by holding meetings with the Parliament's administrative staff. He announced the implementation of concrete measures for waste separation, particularly during parliamentary and Senate meetings, which generate substantial waste. He has called for cooperation to reduce littering, and stricter waste management measures will be enforced.

On the subject of energy-saving measures, Mr. Sophon indicated plans to present data comparing electricity usage before and after the implementation of these measures. Preliminary findings suggest a reduction in electricity costs, underscoring the effectiveness of the parliament's energy-saving initiatives.