Udon Thani Governor Audits Incomplete Hospital After Full Budget Spent
Udon Thani officials inspected the Ban Luang Health Promotion Hospital project, which has been five years in the making despite receiving its full 39‑million‑baht budget. Police said they will review documents and may summon those responsible for the incomplete work. The State Audit Office will verify whether funds were spent according to actual progress and regulations.
On October 17, 2026, Governor Chaiwat Chuenkosum, State Audit Office representative Chutima Sirichabutphun, and Udon Thani Provincial Police Commander Pol. Col. Pramote Simluang visited the Ban Luang Health Promotion Hospital site to follow up on the construction project valued at 39 million baht. Building began in 2021 and, after five years, the work is still incomplete despite the entire budget having been disbursed. The visit followed complaints raised through mainstream and online media. Police investigator Pol. Lt. Col. Udolchai Khaokham explained that the next step is to review relevant documents and request certified copies before deciding whether to summon individuals for questioning. Chutima Sirichabutphun of the State Audit Office said an initial check showed 100% of the budget had been paid out while construction remained unfinished, so they must verify whether each disbursement matched actual work and complied with regulations. She added that a further inspection would take place on Monday, October 19, to examine documents and the procedures of the personnel involved before formalizing the investigation. Governor Chaiwat Chuenkosum stated that the province has coordinated with the relevant agencies to conduct a serious investigation after hearing public and media concerns, aiming to clarify the facts and take legal action in every dimension to protect public interests and the national budget. He outlined that the inquiry will focus on three areas: criminal liability, to be handled by police in cooperation with the State Audit Office and the National Anti‑Corruption Commission; civil liability, to assess any damages and seek compensation; and disciplinary/administrative liability, to be investigated by the district office for possible sanctions. The governor emphasized that a key issue is whether the full budget disbursement corresponds to genuine progress, requiring a review of each installment, work acceptance documents, approvals, and contract terms. The province will also carefully consider the contract status and legal aspects to determine how to move the project forward.
