NACC probing THB33m signboard change at Bang Sue Central Station
The National Anti-Corruption Committee (NACC) has launched a probe into the 33-million-baht project to change signboards at Bangkok’s main Bang Sue Station being carried out by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT).
The suspiciously expensive project sparked criticism among netizens after the bid winner, Unique Engineering and Construction, informed the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) on December 29 that it had signed the contract with SRT.
The 150-day project worth 33.16 million baht includes changing the station’s main signboard to its official name of “Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal” and putting up the SRT logo. The station was renamed by His Majesty the King in September.
NACC chief Niwatchai Kasemmongkol said on Wednesday that the anti-graft committee has received complaints regarding the project and has started collecting evidence for the investigation.
He added that the investigation will focus on whether or not the SRT followed regulations for the bidding process on government projects. The NACC will also investigate officials for evidence they have abused their authority in awarding the contract.
The investigation comes under the jurisdiction of the Auditor General’s Office and not the NACC, as in the case of decorative solar-powered lamp posts in Samut Prakan.
On Tuesday, Transport Minister Saksayam Chidchob launched a separate probe to check whether the project’s budget matches the job done. He said he expects the investigation to be completed within seven days.
The SRT has denied any wrongdoing and insists it abided by government rules on granting contracts.
