FOLLOWING a fire at Chatuchak market last night which reignited this morning (Feb. 10) the district chief ordered a review of safety measures as multiple blazes have already occurred there while compensation and rent reduction is being considered for affected vendors, TV Channel 7 and PPTVHD36 said.
Mr. Prasat Phosrimat, Chatuchak’s district chief, who inspected the fire site revealed that the fire, which broke out at 10.42 p.m. last night, reignited this morning because of heat from cardboard boxes piled up in the damaged shops but firefighters quickly brought it under control.
Altogether 48 shops were damaged, affecting 32 vendors who were urged to bring proof of ownership of their trading space or lease agreements to file a police report as evidence in order to get compensation.
Regarding assistance for affected vendors, Prasat said compensation will be expedited and is expected to be completed within one week. Initially, there is a plan to reduce rent for affected vendors, but the exact number of months will be decided by a subcommittee meeting tomorrow.
In addition, these vendors will also get help with startup capital and relocating to other zones. They could choose to either continue selling current products to switch to new ones.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s Market Department plans to improve electrical wiring within this market. While some repairs have been carried out in certain areas, a review is needed to find a permanent solution to prevent recurrence of fire with discussions to be held with relevant agencies, as well as landowners and vendors, he added.
Chatuchak Weekend Market is open as normal today, except for the areas affected by the fire.
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This and Front Page – Fire raging at Chatuchak market last night. Photos – Fire & Rescue Thailand and PPTVHD36
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