Change sparks rumour of BMA rift over skytrain extension

Change sparks rumour of BMA rift over skytrain extension.

SUPOJ WANCHAROEN

Bangkok Governor Apirak Kosayodhin's decision to remove responsibility for the Thon Buri-bound BTS extension from one of his deputies has sparked speculation of a rift in the city administration. Mr Apirak last week assigned Deputy Governor Panich Wikitset to take over affairs related to the BTS extension from Bannasopit Mekvichai.

The 2.2km extension from Taksin bridge to Thon Buri is expected to open at the end of the year.

A source said Mrs Bannasopit, who was responsible for the city's public works, was unhappy with interference from Kanok Wongtra-ngan, who is Mr Apirak's chief adviser.

According to the source, this was the second transfer in the project.

Previously, Apirat Sivapornpitak, former deputy chief of the BMA's public works department, was made an inspector-general as a result of alleged conflict with Mr Kanok in the project.

Mr Apirat wanted Siemens, current supplier for the existing BTS network in the inner city, to install the signalling system for the extension despite the company's demand for more money.

However, Bangkok Mass Transit System Plc, the BTS operator, wanted to change the signalling system to avoid a Siemens supply monopoly. The decision was supported by Mr Kanok.

Mr Panich, who now supervises the BTS, declined to comment on the conflict between Mrs Bannasopit and Mr Kanok. He merely said that conflicts and intervention were inevitable.

As a Democrat party member, Mr Panich said he would try his best to prevent conflicts and would keep Democrat leader Abhisit Vejjajiva up to date on skytrain developments

Bangkok Post
Monday January 15, 2007