The Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMC) has given the green light to a whopping budget of over 90.8 billion baht for the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) for the fiscal year 2025. The lion’s share of this allocation is earmarked for the Public Works Department. This budgetary resolution was finalized during a council meeting on Wednesday, which saw active participation from BMC members and BMA executives, including Governor Chadchart Sittipunt. The fiscal year in question kicks off on October 1, 2024.
The budget distribution is as follows: 90 billion baht is set aside for the BMA’s planned expenditures, while the remaining 828.53 million baht will fuel the BMA’s commercial ventures. However, it wasn’t a carte blanche approval—the BMC axed 5.57 billion baht from the city’s expenditure blueprint and trimmed the commerce plan by 25 million baht.
One conspicuous cut involved a 29.50-million-baht request from the Public Works Department, which aimed to hire consultants for three new undertakings, including the construction of hospital buildings. However, the BMC reasoned that the department already possessed ample expertise, making external consultants an unnecessary expense.
Governor Chadchart expressed his gratitude to the BMC for greenlighting the 2025 fiscal plan. He pledged to maintain efficiency and transparency in the BMA’s budgeting processes. It’s worth noting that the three BMA departments receiving the highest allocations are the Public Works Department (9.21 billion baht), the Drainage and Sewerage Department (7.08 billion baht), and the Medical Services Department (6.89 billion baht).
On the district level, Lat Krabang, Nong Chok, and Bang Khun Thian stand to receive the most substantial annual budgets, with allocations of 797.06 million, 763.97 million, and 734.13 million baht, respectively.
The meeting also touched upon a pressing financial issue: Governor Chadchart requested that the BMC consider approving an additional 14.54 billion baht to settle debts owed to the operator of the Green Line electric rail system, widely known as the BTS Skytrain. According to a Supreme Administrative Court ruling, the BMA is liable for these overdue debts, which arose from contracts with the Bangkok Mass Transit System PCL to operate and maintain the rail system.
The BMC, agreeing in principle, has decided to form a dedicated committee to scrutinize the special budget request. This committee is set to deliver its findings within a 30-day timeframe.
In summary, the approved budget sets the stage for a significant overhaul in Bangkok’s public infrastructure, with a clear focus on public works, drainage, sewerage, and medical services. Districts like Lat Krabang, Nong Chok, and Bang Khun Thian will particularly benefit from this financial boost. The pending decision on the BTS Skytrain debt underscores the complexities of managing the city’s finances, yet also highlights the collaborative spirit between BMA and BMC. Governor Chadchart’s commitment to transparency and efficiency will undoubtedly be a crucial factor as the city embarks on these new fiscal endeavors.
90.8 billion baht sounds like an astronomical amount! Isn’t there a risk of mismanagement or corruption with such a huge budget?
That’s always a risk, but Governor Chadchart has a reputation for transparency. Let’s give him a chance.
Reputation means nothing if the systems in place don’t support it. We’ve seen it before.
True, but isn’t the real issue how well this money will be used for actual improvements? Transparency is key, but so is effective usage.
Absolutely, Dave! I hope the council keeps a close watch on how every baht is spent.
The focus on public works, drainage, sewerage, and medical services is long overdue. These are essential areas that will improve the quality of life for many.
Sure, but we also need to remember that these improvements won’t happen overnight. It might take years to see real change.
That’s true, Leo. Long-term planning is crucial, but so is starting the process. Better late than never.
I agree with Dr. Jamie. Such investments are meaningful and necessary for sustainable development.
I’m concerned about the 14.54 billion baht debt for the BTS Skytrain. How did they let it get so out of control?
Public transport debts are always tricky, but BTS is essential. It’s a lifeline for millions.
Absolutely, but there has to be a better way to manage these contracts to prevent debt buildup.
Lack of oversight and planning. It’s frustrating to see public money mismanaged.
Why do Lat Krabang, Nong Chok, and Bang Khun Thian get the most funding? Sounds like favoritism to me!
Those districts are likely in greater need of infrastructure improvements. It makes sense to allocate funds where they’re most needed.
Still, it feels unfair to other districts that also need improvements.
Exactly, Lisa! It’s about prioritizing the regions with the greatest needs.
That’s how effective resource distribution works. You can’t please everyone.
Cutting 29.50 million baht for external consultants was a good move. The Public Works Department should use its internal expertise.
I wonder how transparency will be maintained. Will there be public reports on the expenditure?
Governor Chadchart pledged transparency. Public reports would be a good way to uphold that promise.
I hope the BMC ensures that. Transparency is critical to prevent corruption.
Instead of spending 90.8 billion baht, they should lower taxes and leave more money with the people!
Taxes fund public services. Without them, infrastructure and services would falter.
But high taxes stifle economic growth. People know how to spend their money better than the government.
Investing in infrastructure creates jobs and boosts the economy. It’s about balance.
It’s disheartening to read about additional debts while approving a huge budget. Is Bangkok living beyond its means?
I’m optimistic. If executed well, this budget could transform Bangkok into a modern city.
Let’s hope for the best. Transformations require both vision and meticulous execution.
This budget sounds like a massive overhaul. I hope it includes some green initiatives and sustainable projects.
I agree. Green initiatives should be a priority, especially in urban areas like Bangkok.
How can they justify cutting 5.57 billion baht from the initial plan? What was deemed unimportant?
Those cuts are probably about reallocating resources more effectively. I’d like to see the specific details though.