Villagers in Ratchaburi have put up a large vinyl banner demanding justice, protesting government land encroachment and complaining that their complaint case has seen no progress, with authorities stating it is still under review.
Reporters were informed that along Phetkasem Road, inbound towards Bangkok, in Moo 4, Ban Singh Subdistrict, Photharam District, Ratchaburi Province, a landowner installed a large vinyl banner in front of their land to demand justice from government agencies. Upon investigation, Mr. Woraphan Intarawong, 60, and Mrs. Urai Intarawong, 57, a married couple, had put up the banner along Phetkasem Road inbound to Bangkok in Moo 4, Ban Singh Subdistrict, Photharam District, to demand justice. They claim that their land title deed for nearly 2 rai (1 rai 3 ngan 6.6 square wah), valued at about 5 million baht per rai, has been overlapped by Phetkasem Road and an irrigation canal for decades, leaving only about 200 square wah of usable land around their house.
Mr. Woraphan revealed that about five years ago, when they conducted a new land survey to repair their house, this issue was discovered. The missing land area is named in the original title deed but has not yet been subdivided. Upon checking with the Royal Irrigation Department, they found no compensation payments had been made. The agency issued a certification letter in 2022 to apply for compensation. They also coordinated with the Department of Highways, which worked on the matter for about a year before it went silent. They also filed complaints with the Damrongtham Center and engaged a lawyer but have seen no progress, only receiving replies that the case is under review.
The landowners insist that if the government uses the land for public benefit, compensation should be paid according to their rights. If there are any legal conditions preventing compensation, they request clear explanations. If compensation is not possible, they are prepared to demand the return of the land according to the title deed for their own use. They urge the responsible agencies to promptly clarify solutions, to set a precedent for other citizens who might face similar problems.
However, if there are any statements from the relevant authorities, further reports will be provided.