Chiang Mai has taken a big step towards its smart city ambitions, with multiple agencies joining forces to drive the Smart Nimman project — a wide-ranging infrastructure overhaul of the Nimmanhaemin Road area.
On the 14th of May, Chiang Mai Municipality Mayor Asanee Buranupakorn delegated Deputy Mayor Wisakha Panyachuay to represent the city at a public consultation meeting held at Chiang Mai University’s Academic Services Centre. The forum focused on infrastructure development along Nimmanhaemin Road as part of the broader Upper Northern Region economic and social development initiative.
The project has its roots in a Cabinet resolution passed on the 15th of January 2019, which approved a coordinated push by relevant agencies to develop the Nimmanhaemin corridor as an economic, tourism, educational and residential zone. Following that resolution, Chiang Mai Municipality took over management of Nimmanhaemin Road from the Department of Highways to advance the Smart Nimman concept.
A key component of the project is the conversion of the area’s electrical distribution system to underground cabling — part of a broader effort to streamline utilities, improve the streetscape and enhance safety. The initiative brings together the municipality, the Provincial Electricity Authority, National Telecom, the Provincial Waterworks Authority, traffic and urban planning departments, educational institutions, local businesses and residents.
Given that construction work is expected to affect traffic flow, access to buildings and shops, and the daily routines of those living and working in the area, the public consultation was convened to gather community feedback and address concerns. Input from the forum will inform adjustments to the project plan in line with the Prime Minister’s Office Regulations on Public Consultation B.E. 2544.
