Local residents oppose Formula One proposal
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Residents living in the Rattanakosin Island area have expressed opposition to the proposed plan for a Formula One race there in 2015, citing concerns of road safety, traffic congestion cultural exploitation and noise pollution.
“If the noise of a long-tailed boat [around 100dB] is already very disturbing, I cannot imagine what these cars would do to my ears,” said 80-year-old Aunt Nid or Orasri Silapi, leader of the Bang Lamphu Community Council.
For Parntip Likkachai, leader of Youth Bang Lamphu Community, the government should sort out its priorities and questioned if hosting a road race was rational.
“I definitely disagree if our country has to spend money on organising motor racing. It’d be better to use the budget to improve the education system or the society condition,” said Parntip, who though opposed to the event agrees it would bring an influx of tourists to the town.
However, Praeng Puthorn Community leader Teerapon Kachaceevar was not entirely convinced if the country would benefit from the race and said he would not stand still and watch his community suffer due to the event.
“I really doubt if this is just another promotional activity by a private sector. If they claim this event would bring revenue to the country, I want to know if it’s really worth it. Many historical events occurred on Rajdamnoen Avenue and to have a race here does not make any sense. I will protest if they’re really going to do it,” Teerapon said.
Sports Authority of Thailand, governor Kanokphand Chulakasem, who claimed this F1 proposal served the government’s policy to host international events and boost tourism, admitted he had a heavy heart as he was aware of resistance to the idea and concerns over its impact on community people.
“There would be some impact, but we will try to make it as less as possible. We have to explain and make them understand about the work details and benefits our country will receive from this race,” he said.
