Bangkok: The government has issued a warning about impending "summer storms" and has ordered stringent inspections of buildings and advertising signs across the nation. Violators of these regulations face severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines up to 10,000 baht per day.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Airin Phanrit, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, announced that Thailand has entered the hot season, which carries a high risk of summer storms and tropical cyclones capable of causing significant damage to life and property. The government is urging the public to ensure that buildings and homes are structurally sound, paying particular attention to roof tiles and other potential hazards. Citizens are encouraged to report any structural weaknesses to the authorities and to avoid areas with collapsing structures during thunderstorms. Additionally, the public is asked to monitor the stability of large advertising signs to ensure safety.
The government is enforcing stricter regulations on the construction of temporary structures in open areas, which may not require permits from local authorities. Officials are directed to ensure that all construction projects maintain structural integrity and are mindful of the dangers posed by strong winds.
For large advertising signs, compliance with building control laws during the permit application process is mandatory. A licensed engineer must certify the structural integrity, and for signs exceeding 10 meters in height or 50 square meters in area, an inspection by a qualified civil engineer is required. This is in accordance with the Ministerial Regulation B.E. 2550 (2007). Violations of these regulations are subject to penalties under Section 65 bis, which include imprisonment for up to three months, fines up to sixty thousand baht, or both, along with an additional daily fine until compliance is achieved. Officials are also instructed to report violations to initiate criminal proceedings against offenders.
The government is emphasizing the importance of public vigilance in inspecting buildings and structures potentially affected by strong winds. Government agencies have also been instructed to prepare personnel and equipment and raise awareness about safety to provide timely assistance to the public.