Naklua residents accused of encroaching on two vital flood-control canals appealed to former Pattaya politicians for help in their battle against eviction.
Residents along both the Naklua and Nok Yang canals met with former cabinet minister Sonthaya Kunplome – now a political advisor to Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha – and other out-of-office Pattaya politicians during their visit to the region May 23.
Sonthaya said the visit was made to give locals a chance to voice their concerns and to provide them information on the legal process and how they can respond to the eviction orders.
More than 100 families are subject to eviction or demolition of their homes and businesses following a military-led crackdown on those who have exploited public land for decades and, simultaneously, impeded water flow to canals and exacerbated flooding problems.
Many of the property owners have appealed the decision as the law gives those who bought property between 1942 and 1992 and have resided in the area for 20-30 years some wiggle room. Even if they are living on public land, their long-term tenancy can give them the legal right to remain. However, decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
Those who bought or built on canal land after 1992 have no right to appeal.
Pattaya officials are now waiting on satellite imagery from past years to compare to current aerial photos to determine if property owners have exceeded their original property lines.
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