Copper theft shuts down ฿100 million power project in Pathum Thani
Photo courtesy of Khaosod English
Someone stole copper busbars from a major underground power cable project in Khlong Sam, Pathum Thani, shutting down the entire ฿100 million ($2.9 million) infrastructure scheme.
Khlong Luang Police arrested the suspect on February 15th, but the damage is already done. The theft hit an underground power cable installation that was part of a bigger electrical infrastructure upgrade for the area.
What actually happened
The theft targeted copper busbars — basically the thick copper strips that conduct electricity in power systems. These things are worth serious money as scrap metal, which is why they're constantly getting stolen from construction sites across Thailand.
Police haven't released details on how much copper was actually taken or the exact damage amount, but it was enough to halt the entire project. That's not a small feat for a ฿100 million infrastructure job.
Why this matters
This isn't just some random theft story. Copper theft from infrastructure projects is becoming a real problem in Thailand:
- Power projects get delayed while they source replacement materials
- Costs go up because contractors have to redo work and increase security
- Local communities that were supposed to benefit from better power infrastructure have to wait longer
Pathum Thani has been upgrading its electrical grid to handle growing demand from new developments and industrial areas. When projects like this get hit, it affects everyone in the area.
The bigger picture
Copper prices have been climbing globally, making these thefts more attractive. Construction sites for power projects are especially vulnerable because:
- They often work in remote or industrial areas
- Materials get delivered before installation
- Security isn't always 24/7
- Copper components are easy to identify and remove
The real cost goes way beyond just replacing the stolen copper. The project delay, labor costs to redo work, and beefed-up security all add up.
What happens now
The suspect is in custody, but that doesn't get the project back on track immediately. The contractor will need to:
- Assess exactly what was damaged beyond the stolen parts
- Source replacement copper busbars
- Potentially redo underground cable work
- Implement better site security
No word yet on how long the delay will be, but infrastructure projects like this typically take months to get back on schedule after major theft incidents.
For people in Khlong Sam expecting improved power infrastructure, this means waiting longer for upgrades that were supposed to improve electrical reliability in the area.
Just another reminder that Thailand's infrastructure development constantly deals with these kinds of setbacks that most people never hear about.
Source: Khaosod English
Source: Copper busbar theft halts 100-million-baht Khlong Sam power project
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