FTI expects 600 bn THB damages for Map Ta Phut frozen projects

BANGKOK, 21 December 2009 (NNT) – The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has admitted concerns over possible negative effects of the 65 projects suspension in Map Ta Phut industrial estate with damages of 600 billion THB base on initial estimation.

FTI Vice Chairperson Payungsak Chartsutipol elaborated that the effects were extensive although the initial estimation would indicate a damage of 600 billion THB from the project suspension. He was worried that both direct and indirect damages might be higher than the expected figure. The figure anticipation was made by the Ministry of Industry and the Ministry of Energy.

The vice chairperson asked all sides to help solve this problem and reduce its repercussion together for the sake of the nation. He announced that at present related sectors were drafting rules and regulations to impacts on environment and health, as well as acknowledging opinions from communities on both new and existing investment projects.

The four-party panel to solve the Map Ta Phut industrial estate is moving on the meeting to conclude solutions to the problem in order to present them to Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva within today. The 65 projects remain frozen following the order of the court due to concerns over health and environmental impacts.