Bangkok: The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has announced the temporary closure of 56 establishments following a rigorous inspection of 1,091 venues across the city. According to Thai News Agency, this action comes in the wake of a recent fire incident at a brewery in the Lat Phrao area, which prompted the BMA to upgrade its safety inspection measures. Governor Chatchart Sittipunt revealed that inspections over the past three days covered 824 establishments, with only 217 meeting the required safety standards.
Out of the inspected venues, 551 were ordered to make improvements, while operations at 56 were suspended due to significant safety deficiencies. The BMA plans to continue these inspections for the next two months, ensuring establishments comply with enhanced safety measures. Businesses will also be required to submit certification from experts on aspects not visible to the naked eye, such as electrical systems, to confirm safety compliance.
The governor emphasized the importance of familiarizing business operators with the new safety checklist and announced plans to expand inspections to include buildings classified as public assembly venues, like boxing arenas. This effort aims to reinforce safety by adhering to building inspection laws, with annual and major inspections every five years by independent inspectors.
Furthermore, authorities are addressing a birth registration fraud case, with several officials suspended as a fact-finding committee investigates the situation. The committee has a 30-day timeline, which may be extended to ensure thoroughness. Governor Chatchart assured the public of stringent procedures to prevent future fraud, emphasizing the importance of transparency and adherence to regulations.
Additionally, the governor reaffirmed the commitment of the BMA to anti-corruption efforts, sharing the recognition of the 2026 Outstanding Individual in Anti-Corruption Award with all BMA personnel. This award, he noted, underscores the dedication of BMA officials to maintaining transparency and good governance.