Changes in the Economy, Society and Environment of Thepharak 1-5 Communities due to the Construction of the Two-Track Railway from the Jira Road to Khon Kaen

Abstract

The objectives of this research were to: 1) study the changes in the economy, society and environment due to the construction of the two-track railway from the Jira Road Junction to Khon Kaen, and the impact on the local population in Mueang District, Khon Kaen Province; and 2) to proposes guidelines for prevention of adverse impacts.  Data were collected by in-depth interviews with 70 residents in the Thepharak 1-5 Communities that are situated along the two-track railway.  Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and content analysis.

            Findings are as follows. The construction of the two-track railway from the Jira Junction to Khon Kaen passes along five residential communities over a stretch of four kilometers. This stretch comprises 2,500 households, and the railway has impacted the local socio-economy and environment. For example, the residents living along the railway have had expanded opportunity to sell goods— such as fruit, dry goods, and other products—to railway construction workers.  Before construction of the railway, these venders would make an average of 200 baht per day in sales. However, after launching the construction of the railway, these venders increased their daily average income to 300 baht. Despite this increased income for some households, many other families had to be relocated to accommodate this new stretch of railway. The households of many families were situated on land belonging to the State Railways of Thailand, and that land had to be reclaimed. In addition, the construction activity increased the amount of dust and particulate in the air. The noise from construction also disrupted the peace and tranquility of the locality. Construction waste blocked water drainage in certain parts of the local community.  Efforts to limit the air pollution by spraying water was implemented periodically to limit the extent of dust and particulate in the air. Regarding solutions to the housing problem, the residents would like the related government agencies to provide a piece of land behind the train station for public housing for the affected people.