Big Jazz Explains After Strong Criticism Over Street Light Reduction, Claims Multiple Coordination Attempts
Pathum Thani PAO chief Kamranwit Thoopkrajang defended his street lighting efforts after criticism, saying he's coordinated with multiple agencies and inviting residents to report dark spots via LINE for faster resolution.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Kamranwit Thoopkrajang, Pathum Thani PAO chief, has coordinated with the Department of Highways and the State Railway of Thailand to address dark spots lacking sufficient lighting. He is inviting residents to submit photos and tips through the PAO's LINE account for faster resolution.
Kamranwit explained that as PAO chief, he remains committed to public safety and has prioritized street lighting improvements since taking office. His action plan includes:
1. Installing and upgrading street lights with proper maintenance on all PAO-controlled roads 2. Instructing engineering staff to verify power supply to lights and prevent cable theft 3. Planning budget approval to replace degraded bulbs and fixtures 4. Coordinating with other agencies including the Department of Highways, Department of Rural Roads, and State Railway of Thailand to provide electrical power to installed infrastructure for nighttime illumination
Kamranwit noted that a Memorandum of Understanding with the State Railway has enabled the PAO to install solar-powered street lights along railway-adjacent roads from Don Mueang to Rangsit.
He emphasized that street improvements have demonstrably reduced accidents, vehicle damage, and injuries. Kamranwit acknowledged that his direct language may seem harsh, but stemmed from frustration over agencies reducing electrical supply to existing lighting, further darkening already poorly-lit roads and affecting residents.
He clarified the PAO's limited jurisdiction over highways managed by the Department of Highways, Department of Rural Roads, and State Railway, and appealed for cooperation. The PAO has repeatedly coordinated both directly and indirectly with agencies through joint meetings, seeking solutions despite jurisdictional constraints.
Kamranwit urged residents to photograph or video dark spots with poles and fixtures, then report via the PAO LINE to consolidate feedback for responsible agencies, accelerating concrete problem-solving and keeping affected residents informed of progress.
