Preparations for the model city project in the deep south
Deputy Defense Minister and Head of Government’s Special Representatives in Solving Problems in the Southern Border Provinces, General Udomdej Sitabutr, has inspected three southern border provinces to prepare for project on model cities in 'Triangle of Stability, Prosperity, and Sustainability.'
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The Government has a policy to develop three districts in Pattani, Narathiwat, and Yala as model cities for economic development.
The three districts include Nong Chik in Pattani, Su-ngai Kolok in Narathiwat, and Betong in Yala. Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha stressed that the model city project must be carried out by 2017.
General Udomdej said that in his recent meeting with Narathiwat Governor Sittichai Sakda, he exchanged views with him on local development and learned about various obstacles and problems that would have to be dealt with.
As for the Su-ngai Kolok city model, he said, emphasis would be placed on international border trade in order to stimulate the local economy. Projects to be implemented also include infrastructure development, such as the construction of the second Kolok Bridge and a product distribution center.
Narathiwat province has proposed six projects involving a budget of 2,296.1 million baht for the development of the model city. Out of the projects, three were approved by the Cabinet. They involve a budget of 532.7 million baht and will be implemented in the 2017 fiscal year.
Narathiwat has set up a committee to push for the model city project. The committee, during its meeting on 15 November 2016, agreed to improve and upgrade the Su-ngai Kolok Railway Station and support the construction of a warehouse.
General Udomdej said that the Chairman of the Narathiwat Chamber of Commerce had given his views on trade promotion and suggested that local border trade checkpoints be improved.
He also discussed the Yala model city with Yala Governor Doldej Padhanarath. Yala will carry out seven projects, involving a budget of 111.64 million baht, in the 2017 fiscal year to develop the model city for self-reliant development on a sustainable basis.
Among the projects are the promotion of alternative energy and energy conservation, the establishment of a comprehensive processing plant for agricultural products, the installation of diesel electricity generators, career promotion, and skill development for tourism.
In Pattani, Nong Chik will be developed as a model city for agro-industry. Processed agricultural products will be developed as items under the "One Tambon, One Product,” or "OTOP,” program. Pattani Port and local roads will be improved, as well.
The Triangle of Stability, Prosperity, and Sustainability project aims to generate more employment and income and upgrade local people’s quality of life.
