Depa is also in charge of the development of high-speed broadband internet infrastructure and free WiFi access in smart cities development areas. The government initially planned to spend 386 million baht to turn Phuket into a smart city. The investment budget for Chiang Mai is 36 million and Khon Kaen 15 million. He said the establishment of city development companies through the public-private joint venture model is the most effective strategy for developing smart cities in the long run. The city development company model was established in Phuket, Chiang Mai and Khon Kaen through Phuket City Development Co, Chiang Mai City Development Co and Khon Kaen City Development Co."Development of smart city projects will not be implemented effectively solely by the state because of their large scale," said Mr Pichet.

Source: Bangkok Post April 07, 2017 00:56 UTC