In a much-anticipated development, the extensive renovation of Government House’s front lawn, with a reported cost of 498,352 baht, is nearing completion, as per sources with insider information. The project, awarded to Green Value Co Ltd through a highly competitive bidding process, is set to transform the landscape of the iconic site.
The selected Paspalam grass, renowned for its resilience in hot climates and durability against heavy foot traffic, is expected to offer a lush and enduring visual appeal, surpassing traditional turf options. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, currently overseas in Paris, dismissed social media speculations of a purported 138 million baht expenditure solely on lawn restoration. Instead, he clarified that the substantial sum encompassed a comprehensive renovation of Government House, spanning various facets from IT infrastructure to security systems.
Amidst the controversy, it was revealed that Green Value outperformed Landscape Song Song Co Ltd and Jom Garden Co Ltd, securing the contract with a cost-effective proposal, as reported by The Nation. Founded on May 19, 2003, with a capital of 5 million baht and led by managing director Paitoon Baolee, Green Value has an illustrious portfolio that includes notable landscaping projects such as Central Festival in Phuket, Erawan Bangkok Hotel, and enhancements for select Sansiri projects.
In a parallel narrative, the streets of Bangkok resonated with the impassioned chants of empowered Thai women marching towards Government House on International Women’s Day. Armed with 11 demands challenging labor oppression, Thai women’s labor groups, spearheaded by the Thai Labour Solidarity Committee (TLSC), advocated for the adoption of key International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions. These included Convention 183 safeguarding maternal rights, Convention 190 combating workplace violence and harassment, and Conventions 87 and 98 protecting freedom of association and negotiation rights.
Shifting focus to other developments, PM Srettha hinted at a potential meeting with the recently paroled former premier, Thaksin Shinawatra. This rendezvous could transpire during PM Srettha’s upcoming visit to Chiang Mai, coinciding with Thaksin’s planned trip to his hometown.
