The National Economic and Social Development Board will submit its Eco Town framework to the Joint Public/private Committee on February 22, which could be the model for Map Ta Phut or a new industrial zone for upstream steel projects.
Thanin Pha-aim, advisor to the NESDB, said at the Federation of Thai Industries-sponsored seminar that the concept would reduce conflicts and create cooperation from all parties. If the government and the private sector cannot win community trust or continue with industrial, agricultural or ecological development, it could affect the future economic development.
He noted that the Eco Town needs a special city plan and governing laws may be amended. Success will lies with the ability to establish the right understanding among the local authorities.
FTI Vice Chairman Payungsak Chartsutipol said the new concept needs cooperation from all parties. If Map Ta Phut can be developed into an Eco Town, it could be the role model for other areas and this should minimise conflicts. He noted that while companies are complying with the Constitution's Article 67 (2), that is to address the short-term problems but the Eco Town will present long-term solutions.
The town will focus on six aspects: city plan, infrastructure, rules and regulations, efficient resource management, resource recycling, as well as research and development.
Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand Deputy Governor Verapong Chaiperm also revealed that during 2010-2014, the agency plans to turn 15 estates under its care including the one in Map Ta Phut into ecological industrial estates. Meanwhile, in 2019, all estates will become ecological.
Suthi Atchasai, a coordinator of the community group Eastern People Network, also believed that if this concept can ease conflicts in the East, it should work out conflicts at other places as Thailand cannot completely reject industrial development. He noted that the government should then be ready for public monitoring.
