Thailand – Gov’t efforts to modernize Bangkok port threaten local poor communities

As the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) edges closer and closer to officially float a tender its Klong Toey smart community project in 2022. PAT seeks the modernization of the Bangkok port and adjacent areas, parts of which have been encroached upon by poor people. This raises concerns about the fate of Thais who make a living from the port and the areas surrounding it, as they would have to clear the areas to allow for the construction works. The local communities who would be affected directly by the modernization project have expressed their exasperation and demanded the authorities to reconsider and take their situation into consideration going forward.