Imagine the buzz and excitement swirling through the air, much like the planes that might soon grace the skies above Kalasin, a province in the northeastern corridor of Thailand. This buzz isn’t just about any routine matter; it’s about a groundbreaking development in the region—a brand new airport that could potentially transform the landscape of local tourism and economic growth. At the heart of this thrilling venture is none other than Prime Minister and Finance Minister Srettha Thavisin, a man with a vision for the skies.
On a fine Saturday in Kalasin, amidst discussions and digital flashes capturing moments for posterity, PM Srettha passionately endorsed the ambitious plan to usher in an era of connectivity for Kalasin through the construction of a new airport. With a deep dive into the province over the weekend, Srettha unveiled that the wheels have been set in motion, with the government earmarking funds for a feasibility study to explore this aerial endeavor.
Why Yang Talat district, you ask? Picture this—strategically nestled between the vibrant locales of Kalasin and Maha Sarakham, Yang Talat offers the perfect perch for this proposed aviation marvel. Dubbed ‘Sarasin’, in an ode to the intertwined destinies of Maha Sarakham and Kalasin, the new airport promises to be more than just a transit point. It aims to be a catalyst for tourism, a booster for local exports, and a magnet for investments.
Let’s rewind to June 2021, a time when the seeds for this ambitious project were first sown. It was then that the government, in a gesture of inclusive planning, opened the floor to the voices of the residents through a public forum. Their response? A resounding wave of enthusiasm, propelling the project into its next phase—a rigorous study to weigh the prospects of making the airport a reality. The baton will eventually pass to the Transport Ministry, where the final fate of the airport will be decided.
However, Srettha’s weekend jaunt was not solely about dreams of flying high. The Prime Minister also turned his gaze to the pressing needs on the ground—particularly, the health services in Kalasin. In response to the concerns observed, he championed the cause for bolstered funding to enhance public health facilities in the area. But that’s not all. With a determined tone, Srettha reiterated his government’s dedication to combating narcotics and the gnawing issue of household debt.
Jumping on board the aviation dream train, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit chimed in with an update on accelerating projects like the West Expansion and the South Terminal at Suvarnabhumi Airport. These projects are key pistons in the engine driving the government’s “Ignite Thailand, Aviation Hub” vision. Under Srettha’s stewardship, this vision aims to catapult Suvarnabhumi Airport back into the limelight as one of the world’s premier airports and position Thailand as a bustling regional aviation nexus within the next five years.
As Suriya outlines plans to welcome bids from potential contractors to bring this vision to life, he also hints at a pause in the North Expansion plans, a strategic move in the grand scheme of things. And with a meeting lined up with representatives from Skytrax—an influential player in the aviation realm—the gears are well and truly in motion to elevate Thailand’s status in the global aviation arena.
In essence, as the narratives of Srettha, Suriya, and the future Sarasin airport intertwine, they sketch a promising horizon for Kalasin and Thailand at large. It’s a horizon where the skies are not just a passage but a bridge—connecting dreams, people, and opportunities.
Building a new airport might sound like a great idea for economy & tourism, but what about the environmental cost? We’re facing a climate crisis and we’re still putting up projects that will increase carbon emissions. This isn’t progress, it’s a step back.
I understand the environmental concerns, but airports contribute significantly to a country’s connectivity & economic development. It’s about finding a balance. Plus, modern airports incorporate sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact.
A balance is necessary, I agree. But it often leans more towards development than sustainability. I hope this project proves me wrong and they truly implement green initiatives.
Exactly @SkyLover! There are innovations in sustainable aviation like electric planes & solar-powered airports. It’s about adopting these forward-thinking practices.
Our town needs this boost. Jobs, tourism, better services… I’m all for the airport if it brings these benefits. Plus, the government is considering our health services too, so it’s not just about the airport.
Jobs and tourism sound good until you remember the high levels of household debt in Thailand. More development means more loans and more debt. It’s a vicious cycle.
How much is this ‘dream’ going to cost us? The article talks about a new airport, better health services, fighting narcotics… Sounds like a lot of money. Where is that coming from? Our taxes?
Investments in infrastructure often pay off in the long run. Better facilities mean more tourists and business, which boosts the economy. It’s not just an expense; it’s an investment in our future.
I hope you’re right. But I’ve seen too many of these ‘investments’ go over budget and underdeliver. The payoff seems great, but the reality is often a burden on taxpayers.
An airport in Kalasin could change the game for Thailand’s northeastern region. Better access to this beautiful area would definitely put it on the map for tourists and investors alike!
As someone living near the proposed site, I’m worried about the noise and disruption. Not everyone is thrilled about being ‘on the map’.
That’s a valid point. I hope the planners consider the local community’s quality of life and not just the economic benefits. It’s important to have a balance.
Naming the airport ‘Sarasin’ as a symbol of unity, bridging Kalasin and Maha Sarakham, is a masterstroke. It’s more than an airport; it’s a message of regional coalescence and shared destiny.
A name is just a name. It’s the actions and outcomes that count. Let’s see if this project actually brings unity and prosperity, or if it’s just another political maneuver.
Agreed, actions do speak louder. But don’t underestimate the power of symbols in shaping identities and visions for the future. This could be the start of something significant.
This project could put Suvarnabhumi back in the competition for the world’s premier airports. The ‘Ignite Thailand, Aviation Hub’ vision sounds ambitious and promising. Exciting times for aviation enthusiasts!
Ambitious, yes, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Suvarnabhumi facing delays and overcapacity issues isn’t news. I hope this isn’t just another big talk before a big flop.
True that Suvarnabhumi has its challenges. However, with new leadership and a clear vision, I’m hopeful for a turnaround. Only time will tell!