Pak Thong Chai Residents Appeal to Prime Minister for Justice: Market Fire 16 Years On, Still No Compensation or Progress
Residents in Nakhon Ratchasima submitted a second petition to the Prime Minister demanding compensation and justice 16 years after a devastating market fire destroyed their homes and businesses, with no relief provided despite promises made
On May 18, 2025, residents affected by a fire in Mueang Pak subdistrict, Pak Thong Chai district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, submitted their second petition to the Prime Minister through the government's complaint resolution center (1111). Led by Wannarath Veerchaiyasunthorn and Pornchanok Veerchaiyasunthorn, the group sought urgent help and demanded accountability after losing their homes and businesses in the major fire over 16 years ago, forcing them to rent accommodations for more than 15 years. Somphap Nilphan, an advisor on grievance management at the Prime Minister's Office, received the petition.
During the submission, residents gathered to bang pots and pans, demanding justice. The devastating fire had destroyed their homes and livelihoods over 16 years ago, yet compensation and legal proceedings remain stalled. In June 2023, a provincial problem-solving meeting resolved that state agencies should provide relief and compensation for the state-owned land affected by the fire. However, as of March 19, 2025, municipal officials who visited to inspect the situation confirmed that no compensation has been provided to date.
"We are suffering immensely. We have no home and no place to do business. We have had to rent from others for 15 full years. It has devastated our spirits and our families' lives," the residents stated in their petition.
The affected residents requested the Prime Minister to use his authority to expedite and follow up on officials' field investigations to restore justice and alleviate the prolonged hardship. Somphap Nilphan stated that the complaints center has accepted the case and will coordinate with relevant agencies including the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Governor, Pak Thong Chai District Office, Mueang Pak Municipality, State Property Office, Rights and Liberties Protection Department, and Public Rights Prosecutor to fairly monitor progress in assisting the affected residents.
