Deputy city clerk Pattarut Tantranon said yesterday that universities would be paid Bt120 million for the project, and they are required to conduct a detailed survey of the project area; design the project keeping in mind the community and impact from hydrology; as well as carry out an environmental impact assessment.

The project covers a 7-kilometre stretch along the river from Rama 7 Bridge to Somdet Phra Pinklao Bridge on both sides.

The universities are also tasked with formulating a master plan for the development of the 57km-long Chao Phraya riverside area, study initial environmental impacts and gather public opinion on related issues as well as the needs of riverside communities.

The work, which kicked off on Tuesday, should be completed by the end of September, he said.

The consultants will also meet with the project’s sub-panel for design and landscape to discuss the opinions of people, agencies, private sector, academics and media in order to ensure that the project meets people’s needs, he added.