Water for EEC factories enough until 2028

BANGKOK, Sept 10 (TNA) -- The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has assured prospective industrial entrepreneurs that there would be sufficient water for their factories at the government-promoted Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) at least until 2028 from now. FTI chairman Chen Namchaisiri said there would enough water for human consumption, industrial and agricultural factories in the three eastern provinces of Chon Buri, Rayong and Chachoengsao which cover the EEC from now until 2028. Currently, people and factories in the three provinces consume about 400 million cubic metres annually and the volume of water will be increased by double later. After the EEC is implemented, the amount will be further increased between 200 – 300 million cubic metres yearly. Supply of water in the area presently could meet demand of 500 million cubic metres annually and water sources have been found to increase supply to one billion cubic metres yearly in future. Echoing Mr Chen’s remarks is FTI vice chaiman Bowon Wongsinudom who has given his assurance that water supply in the EEC would be sufficient until 2028 and new water sources have to be found to supply factories. Mr Bowon said he personally favours the new site of fresh water from Cambodia’s Stung Nam hydropower project to feed the EEC project in future on condition that negotiations to buy water must be conducted on a government-to-government basis. He said the Royal Irrigation Department will consider the issue later. Stressing the importance of water, Mr Bowon said the government cannot delay considering it, if it wants to persuade foreign investors to invest at the EEC. (TNA)