Bangkok plans cycling lanes to ease congestion in key districts

[webfact]

The capital’s bustling streets may soon see a transformation as the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Thailand Walking and Cycling Institute Foundation (TWCIF) are set to introduce a walking and cycling lane project in four heavily congested areas. A feasibility study for this initiative is scheduled to conclude next month, setting the stage for a city-wide shift in transportation infrastructure.

 

Silpa Wairatpanij, a board member of TWCIF, highlighted the project’s ambition to serve as a 2024-2032 master plan, aiming to establish Bangkok as a pedestrian and bicycle-friendly city with seamless connections to public transportation. This collaborative effort between the foundation and the BMA’s Traffic and Transportation Department seeks to identify more efficient routes for walking and cycling, improving upon previous studies that fell short of providing practical solutions.

 

The pilot project will focus on four high-traffic zones: Lat Phrao 71, Phrom Phong, Sam Yot, and Tha Phra. These areas have been strategically chosen due to their links with Bangkok’s electric rail systems. Silpa explained that in the Lat Phrao 71 area, walk-bike lanes will be initiated on roads such as Lat Phrao, Sangkhom Songkhroh, Nak Niwat, and Chok Chai 4, which are connected to the MRT Yellow Line.

Phrom Phong, located along Sukhumvit Road, was selected due to its unique blend of residential and commercial spaces. It benefits from connections to the MRT and BTS rail systems, as well as the Saen Saep Canal express boats, linking it to key business districts like Siam, Silom, and Rama IX. For the Sam Yot area, walk-bike lanes will cover a 2-kilometre radius from the Sam Yot MRT station, connecting local communities with the Blue Line stations, including Sanam Chai, Wat Mangkorn, and Hua Lamphong, along with Chao Phraya and Saen Saep Piers.

In the Tha Phra area on the Thonburi side of the city, special lanes will enhance connectivity for 68 local communities, facilitating access to MRT and train stations such as Bang Phai, Wong Wian Yai, Itsaraphap, and Talat Phlu. These pilot lanes are designed with a universal approach, incorporating shade, green spaces, and sufficient lighting to ensure safety and convenience for cyclists and pedestrians.

 

Silpa noted that previous walking and cycling paths did not reach their potential because they targeted leisure cyclists and athletes rather than daily commuters. This new project aims to address those shortcomings by prioritising the needs of everyday users.

“These lanes will provide safe and convenient spaces for bicyclists and pedestrians, helping reduce traffic congestion and promote healthier lifestyles.”

 

However, some residents, like Sakunrat Thongtongkum, an office worker in Silom, remain sceptical. She pointed out that the heat makes walking uncomfortable, and cycling poses risks due to traffic. Sakunrat urged officials to first improve the city’s public transport system, which she described as inconvenient due to inadequate connections. She also called on the government to lower transport fares and enhance road safety.

 

“The public transportation system needs better connectivity, and commuters would benefit from reduced fares and improved road safety measures.”

The proposed walking and cycling lanes represent a significant step towards a more sustainable urban environment in Bangkok. As the feasibility study wraps up, the city awaits the next phase of development, which promises to reshape how residents navigate its busy streets, reported Bangkok Post.

 

by Puntid Tantivangphaisal 
Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Source: The Thaiger 

-- 2024-11-12

 

 

[edwinchester]

If they really introduce these cycling and walking lanes then they will only work if they are strictly kept clear of other vehicle users and street sellers. Every new cycle lane I have ever seen soon has motorcycles using it, cars parking on it and street sellers using it as a convenient place to sell their meatballs.

[G_Money]

Expect more hit and run scenarios and road rage.

 

[madone]

Sure would be nice to se a map. As someone that cycles 10k km per year primarily in and around Bangkok, I am skeptical that these walk-cycle lanes will improve safety and provide a viable alternative to driving.

Cycle routes need to run parallel to traffic not share space with it.  Bikes need to be separated from cars by physical barriers and paths kept clear of pedestrians.   

 

Also, paths need to connect. There is no point in a cycle path that suddenly ends, leaving a rider looking for a way to get back on track or worse, a path lures you into a dangerous situation if you are not familiar with the route. 

Otherwise, its just plain safer to use the roads like a car would  

Edited November 12 by madone

[mdr224]

Personally i wouldnt feel comfortable cycling in that country. Cant see whats behind you is the issue

[StreetCowboy]

I was surprised how pleasant it was cycling on Sukhumvit Road.
Although that was in October, so not so hot.

 

SC

[nglodnig]

53 minutes ago, mdr224 said:

Cant see whats behind you is the issue

Mirrors on handlebar?

[rumeaug]

Yes, well, they better build high concrete walls on the edges of these lanes for reasons already mentioned above.

[madone]

1 hour ago, mdr224 said:

Personally i wouldnt feel comfortable cycling in that country. Cant see whats behind you is the issue

Tell me where do you cycle? 

 

I bet you don't.

 

Seems to me that the ones most vociferous against cycling in Thailand haven't been on a bike in years.

 

Meanwhile, avid cyclists in civilized countries like Canada, the US, UK, and Australia report increasing hostility and actual malicious and dangerous behavior against them. 

Check out any cycling forum for confirmation. 

 

Re seeing behind you" these days you can even buy bike radar that tells you exactly where the cars behind you are, how far away, and how fast they are moving. I personally think it's stupid, if I'm going to get hit from behind, I'm <deleted> anyways.   

Just like in car, I check over my shoulder regularly, but more importantly, I hold my line and ride predictably. No swerving, no weaving. 

Unlike western drivers, Thais are very familiar with sharing the road with two-wheeled vehicles, 

Edited November 12 by madone

[mdr224]

8 minutes ago, madone said:

Tell me where do you cycle? 

 

I bet you don't.

 

Seems to me that the ones most vociferous about cycling in Thailand haven't been on a bike in years.

 

Meanwhile, avid cyclists in civilized countries like Canada, the US, UK, and Australia report increasing hostility and actual malicious and dangerous behavior against them. 

Check out any cycling forum for confirmation. 

 

Re seeing behind you" these days you can even buy bike radar that tells you exactly where the cars behind you are, how far away, and how fast they are moving. I personally think it's stupid, if I'm going to get hit from behind, I'm <deleted> anyways.   

Just like in car, I check over my shoulder regularly, but more importantly, I hold my line and ride predictably. No swerving, no weaving. 

Unlike western drivers, Thais are very familiar with sharing the road with two-wheeled vehicles, 

Logic and intuition make me inclined to disagree

[Snackbar]

Called it park and ride in the UK.

[BritManToo]

9 minutes ago, madone said:

Seems to me that the ones most vociferous about cycling in Thailand haven't been on a bike in years.

Did my morning 25Km earlier today, same as every day it's not raining.

I usually cycle up to Wat Doi Tairn (MaeJo) an back, very rarely I cycle to Mae Kuang Dam and back. Almost no traffic on the rural roads, except for a herd of cows or buffaloes.

Here's a baby strolling past my bike a week or so back.

 

 

[Digitalbanana]

No one is going to cycle anywhere to get to a place unless there is a secure place to keep the bicycle to avoid it being stolen,

[madone]

12 minutes ago, mdr224 said:

Logic and intuition make me inclined to disagree

 

sure they do. all you lack is firsthand knowledge from experience

Stay safe on that sofa, my old mucker. perhaps you should stick with discussing the adventures of trump 

Edited November 12 by madone

[madone]

5 minutes ago, Digitalbanana said:

No one is going to cycle anywhere to get to a place unless there is a secure place to keep the bicycle to avoid it being stolen,

 Funny you mention that. bicycles are far safer here than anywhere I have ever lived. I don't think twice about leaving my bike out front of foodland or Villa while i nip in to do some shopping, and every office building has abundant, often guarded motorcycle parking 

[madone]

8 minutes ago, BritManToo said:

Did my morning 25Km earlier today, same as every day it's not raining.

I usually cycle up to Wat Doi Tairn (MaeJo) an back, very rarely I cycle to Mae Kuang Dam and back. Almost no traffic on the rural roads, except for a herd of cows or buffaloes.

Here's a baby strolling past my bike a week or so back.

 

 

 

nice

[G_Money]

Hard to get a Thai to walk 100 meters to 7/11 without taking a taxi.

Highly unlikely the lanes will result in a bicycle  commuting surge.

 

More likely a dedicated motorbike/street food cart lane 

 

[madone]

2 minutes ago, G_Money said:

Hard to get a Thai to walk 100 meters to 7/11 without taking a taxi.

Highly unlikely the lanes will result in a bicycle  commuting surge.

 

More likely a dedicated motorbike/street food cart lane 

 

 head out to the skylane any old day in the late afternoon and see the hundreds of this of all ages exercising.  I also see commuters every day, far more this on the road than foreigners, 

its an if you build it they will come thing,  but it doesn't happen overnight 

[transam]

3 minutes ago, G_Money said:

Hard to get a Thai to walk 100 meters to 7/11 without taking a taxi.

Highly unlikely the lanes will result in a bicycle  commuting surge.

 

More likely a dedicated motorbike/street food cart lane 

 

Yet, another guess and Thai put-down........................

[soi3eddie]

2 hours ago, webfact said:

Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Thailand Walking and Cycling Institute Foundation (TWCIF) are set to introduce a walking and cycling lane project in four heavily congested areas.

 

They did this in London and it made the congestion greater than ever. Ever since, London traffic now moves at a slower pace than Bangkok traffic. Anyway, who's going to ride a bike to/from work in the tropical heat or monsoon rains.

[NoDisplayName]

2 hours ago, webfact said:

walk-bike lanes will be initiated on roads

 

Why is this needed?

Bangkok already has walk-drive lanes.

They are knows as sidewalks.

[impulse]

1 hour ago, madone said:

 Funny you mention that. bicycles are far safer here than anywhere I have ever lived. I don't think twice about leaving my bike out front of foodland or Villa while i nip in to do some shopping, and every office building has abundant, often guarded motorcycle parking 

 

Plus, if their target demographic is "last mile" commuters, nobody steals a clapped out commuter bike with a lock.  They may steal high end recreational bikes, but I never lost one leaving them for hours at a time cabled to a tree or signpost in the bowels of BKK.  My philosophy was that if I was afraid to use it, may as well not have it.  But I was always pleasantly surprised...

 

Edited November 12 by impulse

[hotchilli]

3 hours ago, webfact said:

The capital’s bustling streets may soon see a transformation as the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Thailand Walking and Cycling Institute Foundation (TWCIF) are set to introduce a walking and cycling lane project in four heavily congested areas. A feasibility study for this initiative is scheduled to conclude next month, setting the stage for a city-wide shift in transportation infrastructure.

Looks like death row... motorcycles will use them for sure

[madone]

30 minutes ago, impulse said:

 

Plus, if their target demographic is "last mile" commuters, nobody steals a clapped out commuter bike with a lock.  They may steal high end recreational bikes, but I never lost one leaving them for hours at a time cabled to a tree or signpost in the bowels of BKK.  My philosophy was that if I was afraid to use it, may as well not have it.  But I was always pleasantly surprised...

 

 

The point is that, even if they steal high-end bikes, there is nowhere to sell them and they are so recognizable they can't really be used. The community that buys and sell these bikes is so tight, they inevitably get recognized.  I have seen facebook messenger groups go vigliante on folks posting stolen bikes here.  The giveaway is the seller knows nothing about the 3,000 dollar bike the are flogging.  

a low-end bike is much more likely to get nicked because it doesn't stand out.  

Edited November 12 by madone

[madone]

1 hour ago, soi3eddie said:

 

They did this in London and it made the congestion greater than ever. Ever since, London traffic now moves at a slower pace than Bangkok traffic. Anyway, who's going to ride a bike to/from work in the tropical heat or monsoon rains.

 

and it is this parroting of the pro-car mythology that is causing tensions between cyclists and drivers making UK and other Western cities dangerous for bikes.

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/bike-blog/2021/dec/13/how-a-myth-about-london-bike-lanes-and-congestion-took-flight  

 

https://theconversation.com/cycle-lanes-blamed-for-urban-congestion-heres-the-reality-173388

https://www.spectator.co.uk/article/fact-check-are-cycle-lanes-really-making-traffic-worse-in-london/

Edited November 12 by madone

[digger70]

Bangkok plans cycling lanes to ease congestion in key districts 

 

If they work as well as the Zebra crossings there are going to be Many Death people  about . One can't expect  Most Thai drivers to stay off the Bike lane just because the lane is for Bikes.  😇

[KireB]

3 hours ago, madone said:

Tell me where do you cycle? 

 

I bet you don't.

 

Seems to me that the ones most vociferous against cycling in Thailand haven't been on a bike in years.

 

Meanwhile, avid cyclists in civilized countries like Canada, the US, UK, and Australia report increasing hostility and actual malicious and dangerous behavior against them. 

Check out any cycling forum for confirmation. 

 

Re seeing behind you" these days you can even buy bike radar that tells you exactly where the cars behind you are, how far away, and how fast they are moving. I personally think it's stupid, if I'm going to get hit from behind, I'm <deleted> anyways.   

Just like in car, I check over my shoulder regularly, but more importantly, I hold my line and ride predictably. No swerving, no weaving. 

Unlike western drivers, Thais are very familiar with sharing the road with two-wheeled vehicles, 

I've biked hundred thousands kilometers in my life, but I would never ride a bicycle here.  Very dangerous.

 

[impulse]

2 hours ago, madone said:

 

The point is that, even if they steal high-end bikes, there is nowhere to sell them and they are so recognizable they can't really be used. The community that buys and sell these bikes is so tight, they inevitably get recognized.  I have seen facebook messenger groups go vigliante on folks posting stolen bikes here.  The giveaway is the seller knows nothing about the 3,000 dollar bike the are flogging.  

a low-end bike is much more likely to get nicked because it doesn't stand out.  

 

Good point...

 

[khaowong1]

Stalls and street sellers will be in there 30 minutes after it opens, maybe before. 

[madone]

20 hours ago, KireB said:

I've biked hundred thousands kilometers in my life, but I would never ride a bicycle here.  Very dangerous.

 

 

I was waiting for you or someone like you.  What an utter load of twaddle,  you have no idea what you are talking about because you have never even tried  riding here.

if you had biked even a fraction of the distance you claim, you would understand that the roads here are not nearly as dangerous for cyclists as you make out. 

let's be honest here,  when was the last time you were out on a bike logging those hundreds of thousands of kilometers?  When was the last time you went 100km in a single ride? 

utter <deleted>.  the walter mitty of the cycle world -- but not in Thailand, too dangerous. 

 

Edited November 13 by madone