New home for old

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is planning to build a resort-style home for the elderly by Nakhon Chaisri River in Nakhom Pathom province.

"This home will be able to accommodate 1,000 elderly residents - 500 men and 500 women," Bangkok Governor MR Sukhumbhand Paribratra said yesterday.

Riverside retreat

The budget for the 34-rai project is Bt300million.

Sukhumbhand said the plan needed Bangkok Council's green light before it could go ahead.

"I will also have to consult Nakhon Pathom's governor," he said.

"It should be completed by 2012," he added.

Currently, the BMA runs just one home for old folks -- "Ban Bangkhae II", for 150 elderly women.

Deputy Bangkok Governor Thirachon Manomaipiboon said central government would be asked to provide Bt300million for construction.