Chanthaburi: Latest images reveal that the reinforced border bunkers between Thailand and Cambodia, constructed by the Border Patrol Police, have been strengthened after initial criticism regarding their quality and price. The Royal Thai Navy explained that the construction was carried out during the first round of fighting using central government funds, denying any kickbacks. Meanwhile, the House Military Affairs Committee visited the area to verify the damage and listened to the voices of frontline soldiers, identifying limitations and urging coordinated efforts to strengthen the bunkers through improved fencing, roads, and technology.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekkarach Udomamnuay, Member of Parliament for Bangkok from the People's Party and Chairman of the Military Affairs Committee, led the committee on a visit and study tour of military affairs for national security at the Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defense Command (CBDC), Royal Thai Navy, in Wat Mai Subdistrict, Mueang Chanthaburi District, Chanthaburi Province. They were welcomed by Vice Admiral Apichart Traprasert, Commander of the Royal Thai Marine Corps and Commander of the Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defense Command.
Following earlier reports by Mr. Chat Suphatwanich, MP for Nakhon Ratchasima from the People's Party and the 3rd Vice Chairman of the Military Affairs Committee, who revealed images and raised questions about a military bunker construction project, alleging that the bunkers may not meet engineering safety standards and suspected corruption. The report stated that while the budget for each bunker was approved at 50,000 baht, the actual cost of construction was approximately 35,000 baht per bunker, totaling over 90 bunkers. This resulted in a budget discrepancy of 1,350,000 baht, and the project was under the control of the Military Security Command, Eastern Border Provinces.
The committee spent about 15 minutes discussing the matter with the Marine Corps' Border Patrol Command before Mr. Ekkarach gave an interview stating that the unit explained how the Marine Corps' bunker construction differs from that of other units. He also mentioned the difficulties in disbursing central government funds, which are restricted by payment installments, and the fact that the force comprises multiple factions requiring frequent personnel transfers.
When asked whether the committee still had any concerns regarding the bunkers that were previously a point of contention, after hearing the explanation from the Marine Corps Command Center (MCCC), Mr. Chat said that they had received information from the MCCC that the Marine Corps unit is responsible for a border area spanning over 250 kilometers, which inevitably includes some remote and difficult-to-reach locations. However, the Commander-in-Chief of the Marine Corps confirmed that, regardless of the number of personnel used, they will strive to reach each area. There may be some areas that are extremely difficult or remote, and the Commander-in-Chief is planning for areas with vulnerabilities or changes in attack points. The MCCC told the committee that they would investigate because they are concerned about the safety of their personnel while fighting and deploying troops. However, they assured the committee that they will do everything possible to ensure the safety of their troops, especially regarding t he quality of the bunkers, because many strategic locations are in very remote and difficult-to-reach areas. Sometimes, resupply or operations are quite difficult, and in the event of a clash, it can cause delays.
Mr. Chat further stated that the bunkers in question were clarified to have been constructed during the initial fighting. Navy funds were used to reinforce the area first, and later supplemented with central government funds. Construction continued even during the fighting. The figure of 50,000 baht per bunker was merely an initial estimate for materials and equipment, without specific specifications, as it occurred during the conflict. The military needed to build fortifications for the safety of its personnel. The military subsequently improved and strengthened the bunkers. He confirmed there was no kickback involved and emphasized the importance of personnel safety. Based on the information received from the military, he understood the necessity of the construction.
The committee then visited a border operational base in Trat Province to understand the situation on the ground and inspect the construction of the bunkers, which were the subject of much discussion. It was found that the bunkers were completed, strong, durable, and of high quality. Mr. Ekkarach stated that after visiting the site and examining the logistics routes, he believed that improvements to infrastructure such as water supply, electricity, and transportation routes should be prioritized to enhance the quality of life for personnel along the border.
In particular, regarding the bunkers that the public is concerned about, the committee has observed the preparedness and management practices. Due to their strategic location, information must be classified. However, the bunker construction is proceeding according to the army's tactics and plans. The committee urges the government to prioritize expediting budget disbursement, both from the central budget and the 2027 annual budget. During the budget deliberation period, the committee wants this issue pushed forward, along with efforts to streamline procurement processes, ensuring transparency, accountability, efficiency, and inclusivity to prevent disparities across different areas.
Mr. Ekkarach further emphasized that he has seen several obstacles, such as logistical routes located in areas overlapping with national parks under the care of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. This creates legal hurdles, requiring a review of the framework for managing the overlapping areas between security and forest areas. He also noted that Cambodia's strategy involves using villagers and farmers in the area as buffer zones. Border soldiers have indicated a possibility of encouraging Thai civilians to reside in the area in the future to maintain security and form communities, fostering joint development between the local administration, military, and the public.
However, the committee will subsequently invite relevant agencies to provide information on the problems and obstacles in constructing logistics routes, including the use of central government funds, to ensure smooth operations in all aspects. This includes approaches to SMART POWER where modern technology can be utilized, such as drones and modern technology, which have been discussed with soldiers operating on the front lines. We will help push this forward in policy matters, addressing the needs of our soldiers. We reaffirm our commitment to monitoring and promoting high-security, modernized border fences that can be maintained at all times.