Led by Nattaporn Sittichai, Director of PACC Region 8, the delegation included representatives from the Phuket Provincial Governance Committee, the Phuket Chamber of Commerce and the Phuket Provincial Community Organisation Network. The inspection team convened at the Phuket Highways Office before inspecting the two significant construction sites.
The projects under scrutiny include the construction of Route 4027, Tha Ruea - Muang Mai (Baan Para - Baan Muang Mai section), which has a budget of B650 million, and the construction of an elevated intersection at the junction of Route 402 (Thepkrasattri Rd) and Route 4027 (Tha Ruea Intersection), which includes an underpass beneath the Heroines Monument, with a budget of B2.38bn.
This site visit aligns with the PACC’s corruption risk assessment measures for large-scale projects, an initiative aimed at preventing policy corruption in significant government projects, said PACC Region 8 Director Ms Nattaporn.
According to Cabinet resolutions, any project requesting a budget allocation of B500mn or more must undergo a corruption risk assessment, with findings submitted to the Budget Bureau to inform budget decisions.
During the visit, Thaweesak Ruchicharoenwattana, Director of the Bridge Construction Office, and Somkit Kittisopit of the Phuket Highways Office, provided detailed updates on the projects.
The underpass construction beneath the Heroines Monument is still in the preliminary stages, with the Terms of Reference (TOR) being drafted. This project is expected to take three years to complete, said an official report of the inspection.
Meanwhile, the Route 4027 construction project has already completed its electronic bidding (e-bidding) process, and a contractor has been selected. The project, which will take approximately two years to complete, is now awaiting final approval, the report noted.
The inspection team emphasised the importance of adhering to laws, regulations and Cabinet resolutions throughout the project’s execution.
They also made recommendations to mitigate risks, including facilitating access for disabled individuals to the Heroines Monument during construction and ensuring minimal disruption to public travel, particularly for those using the route to Phuket International Airport.
“The PACC Region 8 office, along with civil society organisations, will continue to monitor the progress of these projects until their completion, ensuring transparency and compliance at every stage,” the repot concluded.