Chiang Mai Provincial Administration Organization (PAO) is preparing to sue the Lamphun PAO Chief over the interprovincial streetlight dispute. If defamatory remarks are found, they may pursue legal rights to protect their reputation and honor.
Regarding the case Veeradej Phoophisit, Chief Executive of the Lamphun Provincial Administrative Organization (People's Party) spoke about the roadside lighting along the Chiang Mai-Lamphun railway local road, highlighting the installation of solar streetlights on the Lamphun side, stating that "It becomes dark once entering the Chiang Mai area." However, it later emerged that the location mentioned actually belongs to Lamphun Province, not Chiang Mai Province.
Subsequently, Veeradej posted an apology to Chiang Mai PAO, explaining it was a personal misunderstanding about the provincial boundary. He apologized if his post appeared insulting and said he had spoken by phone with the Chiang Mai PAO Deputy Chief. He urged citizens of both provinces to foster unity and affirmed that both PAOs want to develop the connecting route for the benefit of residents, aiming for joint provincial progress.
Despite the apology, the matter does not seem to be settling easily. Recently, Chiang Mai PAO is preparing to file a lawsuit against the Lamphun PAO Chief.
Today, Pichai Lertpongsadisorn, Chief Executive of Chiang Mai PAO (Pheu Thai Party) told reporters he was aware of the situation and had assigned the Chiang Mai PAO Engineering Department to investigate the facts, assess how Chiang Mai PAO was referenced, and determine the truth. The legal team was tasked with collecting evidence of any damage. If harm is found, they may exercise legal rights to protect their reputation.
The Chiang Mai-Lamphun railway local road was constructed by the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning and opened in 2004 to connect the two provinces. In 2024, Chiang Mai PAO took responsibility for the Chiang Mai section. Currently, two segments remain incomplete (single-lane only): the 11 km stretch between Muang Nga and Yang Noeng and about 1 km between Mahidol Junction and Chiang Mai Railway Station. Chiang Mai PAO has coordinated with the Department and State Railway of Thailand to complete construction, with the railway granting permission for the missing sections.
Moving forward, Chiang Mai PAO will coordinate with relevant agencies and propose a budget exceeding 400 million baht for construction. This will improve travel convenience and safety for residents of both provinces and help solve traffic congestion problems.