Bangkok: The Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) held a public hearing on the preparation of the Environmental and Health Impact Assessment (EHIA) report, aiming to elevate Bangkok Port to a “SMART PORT.” The initiative seeks to utilize advanced technology to increase service efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and enhance sustainability, all while aspiring to become a green port with international standards.
According to Thai News Agency, the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) is advancing the development of the Bangkok West Port into a “SMART PORT” by integrating advanced technology and semi-automated systems. This development aims to enhance service efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and improve environmental management sustainability to transform it into a world-class port. A public event, scheduled for September 11, 2025, will invite stakeholders to review the EHIA report at the Grand Ballroom of the Rembrandt Hotel, Bangkok. The event will include participation from relevant government agencies, environmental organizations, NGOs, academics, community leaders, and residents of the port area. The objective is to ensure transparency and comprehensiveness in the project development by incorporating stakeholder concerns and suggestions into PAT’s work procedures. This approach aims to build community confidence in the project, provide a comprehensive understanding of environmental impacts and management strateg
ies, and foster cooperation towards shared sustainable growth.
Mr. Thaemsin Sribangpleenoi, Deputy Director of Bangkok Port, emphasized that the PAT acknowledges the significance of environmental conservation and the well-being of surrounding communities. Consequently, the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) has prepared the EHIA report in compliance with legally mandated standards, focusing on four key environmental factors:
1. Physical environmental resources, including studies on topography, soil resources, climate, air quality, and hydrology.
2. Biological environmental resources, encompassing both terrestrial and aquatic biological studies.
3. Environmental utilization and management, which covers land use, water use, waste management, and more.
4. Quality of life development, addressing economics, public health, tourism, and cultural heritage.
“The Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) is committed to advancing semi-automated ports into SMART PORTS and GREEN PORTS, balancing economic development with environmental stewardship. This commitment ensures that Thai ports remain pivotal in driving the national economy while maintaining quality of life and social sustainability,” stated Mr. Thaemsin.
The Bangkok Port West Development Project plans to install automated equipment, including an automated rail-mounted gantry crane (ARMG) and an automated ship-to-shore crane (STS), along a 634-meter pier. This development covers approximately 29,100 square meters (18.19 rai) of wharf frontage, with 176,023 square meters (110 rai) of the back-of-the-dock area being renovated to optimize container yard utilization. These enhancements aim to expand Bangkok Port’s container handling capacity, improve its corporate image, and modernize services to meet international standards, with Phase 1 set to commence in 2030.
This meeting signifies an important step forward, illustrating the Port Authority of Thailand’s dedication to responsible and transparent port development. It emphasizes a commitment to addressing the concerns of all sectors while progressing towards the creation of a modern, safe, and environmentally sustainable port of the future.