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Published on February 26, 2008

In his first inspection of the Bangkok Metro-politan Administration, Interior Minister Chal-erm Yoobamrung yesterday asked Bangkok Governor Apirak Kosayodhin to help enforce the 2am closing of entertainment venues.

Using its municipal policemen, the BMA should also ensure people younger than 20 do not attend these venues, Chalerm said, adding that Bangkok streets would be safe and free of crime under his tenure.

Chalerm said he would tackle drug problems using a pro-active but non-violent approach based on law and order. He said BMA officials and municipal policemen will help monitor crimes and criminal activities in support of local police.

He said a scenic observation post should be built in Bangkok to serve tourists, and proposed a site near a lake in the Thailand Tobacco Monopoly compound off the southeast Ratchada-phisek section.

Chalerm said the post would also comprise convention and business centres to serve foreign tourists.

He promised Bt100 million to support the BMA if it accepted his idea to build the tourist installations.

The minister praised Apirak and the BMA for keeping the Chao Phya River from Nonthaburi down to the sea outlet free of water weeds, at the suggestion of Her Majesty the Queen.

Chalerm and Apirak appeared friendly during the inspection and at the press conference and both sat together for a photo call.

Night venues found to be operating after 2am will ultimately face closure within seven days.

"After 10pm, Bangkok streets must be free from crimes, rapes, mugging and brawls. BMA municipal policemen will work with local police to make sure these crimes don't happen," he added.

Chalerm said he told Apirak to solve problems about coastal erosion along the coastlines in Bang Khun Thian district, the only Bangkok district facing the sea.

Mayuree Sukyingcharoenwong

The Nation