Udon Thani:Bangkok The government has acknowledged the controversy surrounding the "Udon Thani Horticultural Expo," affirming its commitment to resolving the issues without shirking responsibility.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Patthadarasmi Thongsalooykorn stated that the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives took over the management of the project approximately 5-6 months ago. The spokesperson emphasized that the government is actively listening to public concerns and is working to resolve issues related to budget, venue readiness, and event standards.
The Udon Thani International Horticultural Exposition, planned for 2026, has been subject to various criticisms. The government has prioritized addressing concerns about the visitor experience, including ticketing, shuttle services, and venue cleanliness. Agencies have been tasked with ensuring improvements are made continuously to enhance the experience for attendees.
The event has been granted a B-level hosting privilege by the International Association of Horticultural Proceedings (AIPH), distinguishing it from larger A1 level events. Despite this classification, the government maintains its focus on quality and adherence to standards.
The project has a budget of 2,750 million baht, and the government is committed to transparency and cost-effectiveness in its implementation. The deputy spokesperson highlighted the importance of public feedback in improving government operations and assured that any discrepancies would be investigated.
The government's approach to evaluating the event's success involves considering both immediate and long-term benefits, such as economic stimulation and development of the area. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the people of Udon Thani benefit from the project.