Bangkok: In a decisive move to address public safety and legal concerns, Bangkok Governor Mr. Chatchart Sittipunt has ordered the suspension of operations at the Rama 9 Data Center. This action is part of a broader collaboration with the Energy Ministry and the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority to address and close existing legal loopholes.
According to Thai News Agency, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is temporarily halting the issuance of new Data Center licenses pending a detailed review. This decision comes in response to public concerns about the proximity of a data center to Rama 9 Hospital and is aimed at ensuring stringent supervision and adherence to safety standards.
The investigation highlighted that Bangkok currently hosts approximately 30-40 data centers. While many centers have been operational for years, six large-scale standalone centers applied for permits in 2021-2022. Three have been approved, while the remaining three are under review to ensure compliance with revised safety and operational standards.
Concerns have also been raised about the storage of diesel fuel for emergency generators at a site on Soi Ramkhamhaeng 28. Ms. Thitiphas Chotdechachainant, Secretary to the Minister of Energy, stated that while the permit allows for 200,000 liters, any excess would be illegal, carrying severe penalties. The Ministry of Energy is postponing the issuance of new licenses for emergency power generator storage until clear guidelines are established.
In terms of resource consumption, Mr. Kasem Sarathonghak from the Metropolitan Electricity Authority confirmed that the power requirements of Bangkok's data centers are manageable and do not impact public supply. Similarly, Mr. Supicheth Thavornthaveewong from the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority assured that water consumption by data centers is significantly lower than that of other large facilities, ensuring no current impact on water supply.
Governor Chatchart acknowledged past legal ambiguities due to the nascent nature of data center technology. A new definition for Data Centers was officially established on August 13, 2026, and will guide future revisions to building control laws and environmental regulations. This aims to ensure urban planning better reflects current technological and business trends, prioritizing public safety.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is addressing complaints from residents about disturbances caused by data centers. Measures include restricting generator testing to daytime hours and providing channels for citizens to report nuisances such as noise or odors.
Governor Chatchart emphasized the collaborative effort among agencies to enforce existing responsibilities while adapting laws to the evolving urban context, signaling a commitment to safety and community well-being.