The Bangkok Metropolitan Council smoothly approved extending the budget commitment period for three major projects. Governor Chadchart is moving forward to unlock contract signings and also approved extending the construction period of the concrete embankment at Bang Khlow Wat Canal to address flooding problems in Bang Kho Laem district.
On 30 September 2026, during the first extraordinary session (2nd meeting) of the Bangkok Metropolitan Council held at the Council Meeting Room, Aira Wat Pattana Building, Bangkok City Hall 2, Din Daeng, the meeting was chaired by Mr. Netipoom Mingrujiralai, First Vice Chairman of the Bangkok Metropolitan Council.
Governor Chadchart Sittipunt proposed a motion seeking approval to extend the commitment period for three projects: the construction of the Din Daeng Public Health Service Center building (420 days construction), the construction of the Phahonyothin residential building (390 days), and the construction of the Bang Khae Fire and Rescue Station residential building (390 days).
Deputy Governor Wisanu Subsompol explained that originally all three projects were approved for a 2-year timeframe (2026–2027 CE). However, procurement procedures and revisions of the standard prices to comply with the Comptroller General's Department regulations caused delays. Although contractors have been selected, the projects cannot be committed financially as the construction period extends beyond the originally approved timeframe. Therefore, it is necessary to extend the project duration to 3 years (2026–2028 CE).
Mr. Amarin Sawasyanupap, Din Daeng Councilor, and Mr. Sutthichai Veerakulsunthorn, Chom Thong Councilor, raised concerns and debated that all three construction projects have been delayed. They requested the administration to confirm deadlines and strictly instruct contractors to complete construction on schedule to avoid further budget extension requests in the future.
Deputy Governor Wisanu clarified that all three projects have contractors and draft contracts ready. If the council approves the extension, contracts can be signed and work can begin immediately. Past delays were due to the need to revise standard prices to comply with Comptroller General regulations.
Subsequently, the Bangkok Metropolitan Council voted to approve the extension of the project durations for all three projects.
Additionally, Governor Chadchart Sittipunt proposed a motion to approve extending the commitment period for the concrete embankment construction project (canal bed deck) at Bang Khlow Wat Canal, from Rama III Road to Khlong Kwang, under the Bang Kho Laem District Office.
Deputy Governor Wisanu Subsompol stated that the project has budget allocated and a contractor selected. However, the actual construction period is 1,000 days. If the contract is signed in September 2026, it will end in June 2029, exceeding the originally approved budget timeframe (2026–2028 CE). Therefore, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration must request an extension from 3 to 4 years (2026–2029 CE) to legally allow contract signing and commencement of construction.
Mr. Sutthichai Veerakulsunthorn, Chom Thong Councilor, questioned the management of structures encroaching on the canal within the embankment project area. Mr. Tharagon Kanchanagorn, Head of Civil Engineering at Bang Kho Laem District Office, explained that seven encroachments were identified. The local administration and civil engineering team have posted demolition notices and warnings as per Revolutionary Council Announcement No. 44. If the deadline passes without compliance, the district office will proceed with demolition.
Meanwhile, Mr. Powin Paetyanont, Bang Kho Laem Councilor, emphasized the project's importance, noting that Bang Khlow Wat Canal is a main drainage route stretching from Rama III Road connecting to Khlong Kwang, drainage ditches, and other canals through multiple communities. This location is the only remaining earthen embankment area awaiting concrete embankment construction. The approved extension will enhance the drainage system and sustainably alleviate flooding for local residents.
After the debate, the Bangkok Metropolitan Council resolved to approve the extension of the project duration to enable the administration to proceed with the construction of the concrete embankment at Bang Khlow Wat Canal.
