The Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMC) has given the green light to a colossal budget totaling over 90.8 billion baht for the 2025 fiscal year, marking a significant investment in the city’s future. The lion’s share goes to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), with the Public Works Department reaping the most substantial portion.
The decision came during a lively council meeting on Wednesday, which saw enthusiastic participation from BMC members and BMA executives, including the dynamic governor Chadchart Sittipunt. Their unanimous nod confirmed the extensive budget for the fiscal year 2025, kicking off on October 1.
A staggering 90 billion baht has been earmarked for the BMA’s planned expenditure, with another 828.53 million baht set aside for the BMA’s commercial ventures. Interestingly, the BMC exercised prudence by pruning 5.57 billion baht from the city’s expenditure blueprint and trimming 25 million baht from the commercial plan.
The Public Works Department experienced a notable cut of 29.50 million baht, a fund initially requested to hire consultants for three ambitious new projects, including hospital buildings. The BMC expressed confidence in the department’s in-house expertise, making the hiring of outside consultants seem redundant.
Governor Chadchart, ever the statesman, expressed his heartfelt thanks to the BMC for approving the 2025 fiscal plan. He emphasized his commitment to ensuring that every baht is spent efficiently and transparently, promising to steward the BMA’s budget with utmost diligence.
Diving into the specifics, the three BMA departments awarded the heftiest budgets are no surprise. The Public Works Department leads with 9.21 billion baht, followed by the Drainage and Sewerage Department and the Medical Services Department, with 7.08 billion and 6.89 billion baht, respectively.
On a district level, the highest annual budgets have been allocated to Lat Krabang, Nong Chok, and Bang Khun Thian offices, receiving 797.06 million, 763.97 million, and 734.13 million baht respectively, ensuring that these areas receive the resources they need to thrive and grow.
Midway through the proceedings, Mr. Chadchart raised a crucial issue, urging the BMC to consider a special budget request of 14.54 billion baht. This additional fund is intended to settle debts owed to the operator of the Green Line electric rail system, famously known as the BTS Skytrain. The Supreme Administrative Court had ruled that the BMA is responsible for these overdue payments, covering the hiring of Bangkok Mass Transit System PCL for running the electric train service and maintaining it.
The BMC, showing a proactive approach, agreed in principle to Mr. Chadchart’s request and established a committee to delve into the matter. This committee has a 30-day deadline to submit its findings, ensuring that all aspects of this substantial financial commitment are thoroughly examined.
A 90.8 billion baht budget is massive! I hope they use it wisely.
I doubt they will. Corruption is rampant. Most of that money will probably end up in the pockets of the officials.
Not necessarily, Joe. Chadchart seems committed to transparency. Give him a chance.
We’ll see, Sophie. I’ve heard that story before.
Exactly, Emma! Bangkok really needs this. Our infrastructure is falling apart.
Why was so much money cut from the Public Works Department? Consultants could bring fresh ideas.
They likely think they can handle it internally. Hiring outside consultants isn’t always the best use of funds.
I think diverse perspectives are crucial, especially for major projects.
A lot of money going to the wealthy districts as usual. What about the poorer areas?
That’s a valid concern. Resources should be evenly distributed to benefit everyone.
It’s strategic. Those districts are probably growth engines for the city.
Finally, some attention to public transportation! The BTS needs those payments settled.
Agreed! The BTS Skytrain is vital for daily commuters. The debt issue needs resolution ASAP.
Exactly, Tina. I just hope the BMC committee moves quickly to resolve it within the 30 days.
Public transportation in Bangkok has been neglected for too long. This is a step in the right direction.
While it’s good news, let’s not forget how much mismanagement has happened over the years.
Investing in medical services is crucial given the recent pandemic. Good to see the budget reflect that.
Definitely. It’s about time more money was allocated to healthcare.
The numbers are promising, but it’s the implementation that really matters.
True, Lisa. Proper execution is key. Let’s hope they follow through.
I just hope this budget shift doesn’t mean higher taxes for us!
Does anyone really believe that the BMC will stick to this budget? Historically they’ve always overrun.
I share your skepticism, Henry. They talk big, but let’s see the final numbers.
Exactly. Actions speak louder than words.
The Drainage and Sewerage Department getting that much budget is great, considering the flooding issues.
Calling out corruption is easy, but Chadchart seems to be different. Let’s give him a chance to prove himself.
Politicians always promise transparency. Rarely do they deliver.
I understand the cynicism, Paul. But we have seen some improvements during his tenure.
How will this budget benefit the local businesses and economy? That’s what I want to know.
The cuts to the budget worry me. Will it affect ongoing projects?
Good point, Debbie. Cuts often mean delays or cancellations. We need clarity on what’s getting prioritized.
So much money and still not enough to pay off past debts? What a mess.
Efficient and transparent spending. That’s what Chadchart promised. We’ll hold him to it.
Does this mean more jobs for locals? There has to be some good news for the average citizen.
Hopefully, Lina. Infrastructure projects usually mean more employment opportunities.
Are the environmental impacts being considered in these massive budget plans?