ขอเสนอจังหวัดนครราชสีมาเป็นเมืองหลวงแห่งที่ 2 ของประเทศไทย : พชร จันทรรวงทอง

Summary

In this speech, Mr. Patcharajan Luangthong, a Member of Parliament from Nakhon Ratchasima, presents a proposal to create a second capital city in Thailand. He argues that Bangkok is facing significant challenges like overpopulation, pollution, and flood risks. Nakhon Ratchasima is suggested as a suitable location for this new capital due to its strategic location, infrastructure, and economic potential. The proposal emphasizes regional development, decongesting Bangkok, and improving flood protection. A special committee is recommended to further study and implement these plans to ensure a balanced, sustainable future for Thailand's urban and economic landscape.

Takeaways

• 😀 Bangkok faces multiple challenges, including overcrowding, pollution, traffic congestion, and subsidence.
• 😀 Bangkok's land subsidence is about 1.5 centimeters per year, and rising sea levels could cause severe flooding.
• 😀 There is a high risk of Bangkok being submerged due to rising sea levels and lack of proper management, with some predictions suggesting an 80% chance of flooding.
• 😀 Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) is proposed as a potential second capital of Thailand due to its strategic location and natural advantages.
• 😀 Korat has the largest land area in Thailand, making it a suitable location for expansion and development.
• 😀 Nakhon Ratchasima also has the second-largest population in Thailand and is well-equipped with educational institutions and healthcare facilities.
• 😀 Korat is known for its vibrant tourism sector, attracting visitors with diverse tourist destinations like Khao Yai and the UNESCO-certified Geopark.
• 😀 The city's infrastructure is developing rapidly, with ongoing projects like the high-speed train from Bangkok to Korat and improved logistics connections.
• 😀 Korat's geographical features, such as its high elevation and the presence of the Mun River, make it less vulnerable to flooding compared to Bangkok.
• 😀 Establishing Korat as a second capital could help distribute economic growth across the country and reduce the burden on Bangkok, promoting balanced development.
• 😀 The proposal calls for the creation of a special committee to study and address the feasibility of relocating some governmental functions to Korat to alleviate congestion and environmental issues in Bangkok.

Q & A

What is the main proposal presented in the speech?

The main proposal is the establishment of a second capital city for Thailand to alleviate the growing challenges faced by Bangkok. The speaker suggests Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) as a potential candidate for the new capital.

What challenges is Bangkok currently facing according to the speech?

Bangkok is facing several challenges, including overcrowding, traffic congestion, pollution, land subsidence, and the risk of flooding. These issues are exacerbated by the city’s overconcentration of population and development.

Why does the speaker believe Nakhon Ratchasima is a suitable choice for the second capital?

Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) is seen as a suitable choice due to its large land area, significant population, and geographical advantages. It is located on a high plateau, making it less susceptible to flooding, and has infrastructure and economic potential to support a second capital.

How does land subsidence affect Bangkok?

Land subsidence in Bangkok occurs at a rate of approximately 1.5 centimeters per year, mainly due to excessive groundwater extraction. This has led to the gradual sinking of the city, increasing the risk of flooding.

What environmental concern is threatening Bangkok’s future?

The rising sea levels, caused by the melting of polar ice due to global warming, are a significant threat. These rising waters could potentially submerge Bangkok, with predictions estimating up to an 80% chance of flooding if no action is taken.

What is the speaker’s stance on the development of Nakhon Ratchasima?

The speaker is in favor of promoting Nakhon Ratchasima as a new economic hub and second capital. The city already hosts numerous industrial zones, educational institutions, and tourist attractions, and has the necessary infrastructure to support further development.

What are some of the major infrastructure projects planned for Nakhon Ratchasima?

Major projects include the construction of high-speed rail lines linking Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima and Nong Khai, as well as a network of highways and railways that will make the city more accessible and central to regional logistics.

How does Nakhon Ratchasima's location benefit its role as a potential second capital?

Nakhon Ratchasima’s location, only 255 kilometers from Bangkok, places it at the crossroads between the central region and northeastern Thailand, making it a strategic gateway for trade and transportation to both the eastern and northern parts of the country.

What is the significance of the UNESCO recognition for Nakhon Ratchasima?

In May 2023, UNESCO recognized Nakhon Ratchasima as a Global Geopark, a designation that highlights the city’s rich natural and cultural heritage. This recognition could enhance its appeal as a center for tourism and international attention.

What other measures does the speaker suggest to address Bangkok’s challenges?

The speaker suggests improving flood prevention systems, constructing high-quality flood barriers, and decentralizing economic activities to other regions to reduce congestion in Bangkok. Additionally, the development of a high-quality public transportation system is necessary to support the new economic model.