On April 24, 2026, Mr. Chakkaphan Phewngam, Deputy Governor of Bangkok, conducted a follow-up inspection of the Sai Mai Refuse Disposal Centre, announcing the facility’s transition to a “completely closed system” designed to shield surrounding communities from garbage odors. This initiative is part of a broader push by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to modernize waste infrastructure through high-tech containment and sanitary disposal methods. During the site visit, which continued work initiated in March, officials confirmed that the primary contractor has modified the factory buildings to include airtight seals and automated double-door entries that are only open for vehicle transit. To further ensure air quality, the facility now utilizes air curtains at all entrances and an “E-NOSE” intelligent monitoring system to detect and mitigate any escape scents in real-time.
The Deputy Governor emphasized that all structural renovations, including the installation of automatic doors for both the existing and newly constructed loading areas, are slated for completion by May 2026. Beyond odor control, the project focuses on sustainable energy recovery and environmental compliance. Currently, the center handles at least 2,000 tons of waste daily through long-term partnerships with private firms like Better City Co., Ltd., and Materials Business Co., Ltd. The process involves compressing community waste into sealed containers for transport to sanitary landfills in Kanchanaburi Province. At these sites, waste is systematically sorted into organic fertilizer, recyclables, and non-hazardous fuel, significantly reducing the volume of refuse that requires traditional landfilling.
To maintain these new standards, the BMA Environment Department has been directed to coordinate weekly progress reports and monitor landscape improvements within the 20-rai facility. The project, which operates under a 20-year agreement, aims to provide a long-term solution to Bangkok’s waste management challenges by integrating environmentally friendly technology with rigorous public health safeguards. These upgrades ensure that the Sai Mai facility functions as a modern waste-to-energy hub while prioritizing the quality of life for residents.
#GoodEnvironment #GoodManagement
