The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is set to transform Phra Khanong and Bang Na into a pedestrian-friendly area, hoping to foster a healthier, greener lifestyle. Deputy Bangkok Governor Tavida Kamolvej announced the ambitious plans during an event at Ban Jirayu-Poonsup Library on Sunday, September 15. The initiative, a part of the Walk-Ride-Run campaign, is organised by Chulalongkorn University's Urban Design and Development Centre (UDDC) in collaboration with the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth).

 

The plan leverages the strong public transport links in the two districts, making it easy for residents to ditch their cars. Tavida outlined the scheme to create 'Good Walk' zones, aiming to encourage walking, running, and biking activities. As a pilot programme, it marks the first step in the city's broader mission to enhance liveability.

 

 

 

 

The UDDC and ThaiHealth demonstrated their vision by hosting various activities on Sunday morning. Participants began at 7am and followed routes designed for different fitness levels. Walkers enjoyed a 2-kilometre stroll passing landmarks like Iam Sombat Market and Suan Ploen Phakhanong Park. Cyclists embarked on a 20-kilometre ride, while runners tackled a 12-kilometre course, weaving through key areas such as Udomsuk Road and True Digital Park.

 

This initiative represents a significant move towards a more pedestrian-centric urban environment, inviting Bangkok residents to embrace a cleaner, more active lifestyle.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-09-17

 

 

The need to find a way to discourage motorists from trying to mow-down pedestrians and cyclists first...   

 

 

So long as cyclists and runners (and pedestrians) share the same space as the cars, there will always be a greater element of danger for as long as the cultural and underlying inner-consciousness of Thai drivers believes cyclists and pedestrians are 'just a nuisance in their way'... 

 

IMO - Thailand is far better off developing the infrastructure is already has... 

 

Run cycling and jogging paths along the many many canals in the area. 

 

Fore example - there is a path that runs along the Saen-Saep Canal, but those paths do not link up with other canals... So its not possible to cycle from the Saen-Saep Canal to other areas such a Phrakhanong (which also has a canal system which has no footpath or cycling infrastructure)...  which means risking ourselves on the roads with pshyco-drivers. 

 

You are correct. There are so many examples of canal paths that just drop off or not maintained.  It wouldn't be budget breaking to a) map them, b) clean/repair them, c) connect them, and finally d) maintain them.  They also need to build barriers to allow pedestrians and bicycles but to stop motorcycles.   The canal paths are BKK's hidden treasure. 

Keeping vehicles and motorcycles away from pedestrian areas or bicycle lanes could be interesting.

While I applaud the concept, actually implementing this will be a very large task to pull off.

Great idea           but              Nana which is a major tourist area has the worst sidewalks and streets    

broken   uneven  holes   dirty             don't do anything there, tourists come and go.

On 9/18/2024 at 5:35 AM, GiveMeAColdOne said:

You are correct. There are so many examples of canal paths that just drop off or not maintained.  It wouldn't be budget breaking to a) map them, b) clean/repair them, c) connect them, and finally d) maintain them.  They also need to build barriers to allow pedestrians and bicycles but to stop motorcycles.   The canal paths are BKK's hidden treasure. 

Problem is the cross canal bridges in area where the footpath switches

If you can't find a place to enjoy walking, running, biking at Krung Thep metro area, you're not looking very hard.

 

Especially on a Sunday, employee & school traffic very minimal.

 

Nice concept though, and should make more areas 'vehicle restricted'  when possible 👍

 

 

This I have got to experience.

 

They laid 200m of new paving on both sides of the soi we used to live on........people now walk on the busy road....it's safer.