PM clarifies on coal-fired power plant project in Thepha

BANGKOK, Dec 2 (TNA) -- Plans by the government to construct a controversial coal-powered power plant in the southern district of Thepha are being studies on an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and an Environmental and Health Impact Assessment (EHIA) and every concerned parties have to carefully study pros and cons, said Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha. Speaking on his weekly TV programme on Friday night, Gen Prayut said plans by his government to build coal-powered plants in the South are certainly “hot issues” and he had assigned the energy minister to find ways in ending opposition. The government has planned for years to construct coal-powered plants in the southern provinces of Krabi and Songkhla’s Thepha district. But the plan has hit a snag due to opposition from people living in the South, especially in the two provinces. They have charged that the plants would damage environments and people’s livelihood. Gen Prayut said his government is forced to concentrate on construction costs, areas to construct the plants and most importantly power security. It is expected that there would be insufficient for power supply in the South in future and that is the reason why the government wants to construct the plants in the region to resolve the problem. Urging people to respect the country’s law. Gen Prayut said he is prepared to listen people’s worry and that his government is prepared to answer people’s questions. Opponents to the government’s plan to build the coal-powered power plant in Thepha fought with policemen earlier this week while Gen Prayut held on-site cabinet meeting in Songkhla. A total of 16 people, including a teenager were arrested. They were later released on bail. (TNA)