Pathum Thani Model' planned to ease encroachment problems
Jeerapong Prasertponkrung
The Nation

BANGKOK: -- Relevant authorities are planning to allocate a 42-rai plot of land in Pathum Thani province for poor people under the so-called "Pathum Thani Model".

The model is being developed in response Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha's order that relevant agencies tackle the issue of encroachment into public land and waterways.

Deputy government spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd said yesterday that according to the proposal, some 42 rai of land near the Chiang Rak Yai Canal in Pathum Thani would be allocated for the construction of housing for low-income people who had been encroaching on public land.

"But the government cannot fully shoulder the cost of housing them. So, people will have to be responsible for the construction of their own homes. A savings system will be established to help them in this aspect," he said.

According to him, the proposal also recommends the establishment of a cooperative for boosting the quality of life. "This process will include public hearings, so the opinions of all stakeholders can be gathered," he said.

Sansern added that if the model proved to be successful, similar efforts would also be taken in other areas, such as Bangkok.

He added that Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwan was assigned to oversee the efforts and ensure coordination among relevant authorities.

As for the other topic tabled at the Cabinet meeting yesterday, Sansern said the Cabinet had approved measures to prevent sexual harassment at workplaces. They include a requirement that office layouts be open in order to reduce risks of harassment and that a report be submitted every year on the implementation of the measure to the Gender Equality Promotion Committee.

The measures, proposed by the Social Development and Human Security Ministry are set to be adopted by state agencies and the Labour Ministry has been assigned to seek cooperation from private firms on the application of these measures, he said.

Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/national/Pathum-Thani-Model-planned-to-ease-encroachment-pr-30262502.html


-- The Nation 2015-06-17

Lumpini Park, Sanan Luang and Benjakiti Park could also be sites for low income housing.