Prisoners to start clearing Bangkok’s drainage system on July 1

26 Sept 04:59 Key points summarised by AI

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will commence hiring prisoners on July 1 to clear 500km of the capital's drainage system, beginning with an initial 100km costing 15 million baht.
This initiative aims to enhance the quality of drain clearing, provide income for inmates, and allows direct cooperation between government agencies, bypassing a contract bidding process.
Prisoners, handpicked for good behavior from 10 prisons, will work voluntarily, receive fair pay and welfare, and undergo strict COVID-19 screening and movement restrictions.
Governor Chadchart urges residents to observe drain contents to identify areas lacking grease traps and encourages households to install them to prevent blockages and improve drainage efficiency.

Thailand secures US$200m World Bank loan for clean energy and low carbon cities

Today 09:24 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand secured a US$200 million loan from the World Bank to significantly invest in clean energy and low-carbon urban development initiatives.
The program aims to drive clean energy funding and low-carbon growth, ensuring a just transition for small and medium-sized enterprises, workers, farmers, and local communities.
Channelled through the Export-Import Bank of Thailand, the loan will fund energy efficiency upgrades in public buildings and industrial areas, including rooftop solar installations and electrical system modernizations, reducing initial capital burdens via Energy Service Companies (ESCOs).