Bangkok's Walkways Get 1,000km Upgrade for Better Mobility

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File photo courtesy of Wikipedia

 

Bangkok is in the midst of a major overhaul of its pedestrian pathways, having already renovated an impressive 700 kilometres of walkways, and plans to revamp another 1,000 kilometres by the next year. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), under the leadership of spokesman Aekvarunyoo Amrapala, is spearheading this significant infrastructural upgrade.

 

A significant footpath initiative between Phran Nok Market in Bangkok Noi district and Itsaraphap MRT Station in Bangkok Yai illustrates the city's ambitious vision. Initiated last June, this 4-kilometre project connects three districts and incorporates Universal Design principles to ensure improved accessibility for everyone.

 

This approach not only strengthens and enhances the walkways' safety with non-slip surfaces but also integrates cultural elements of the neighbourhood into the design. Notably, around 180 street food stalls have been relocated to optimise space and accessibility, as mentioned by Mr Aekvarunyoo.

 

This effort is part of the BMA's broader four-year plan, targeting a total of 1,000 kilometres of footpaths renewed by 2026. With 70% already achieved, the city is on track, and by next month, 87 pavements, covering a cumulative distance of 774 kilometres, will meet the upgraded standards.

 

Walking plays a critical role in Bangkok's transportation network, with 60% of its residents relying on footpaths to connect with public transport. Mr Aekvarunyoo highlighted improvements in high-traffic areas such as Phloenchit, Silom, Lang Suan, and Yaowarat, where the footpaths have been reinforced with 10-centimetre-thick concrete for durability.

 

 

 

Additionally, Bangkok's comprehensive improvements include eliminating cluttered street furniture, installing efficient water drainage systems, and aligning shop and outlet entrances with the footpaths for enhanced safety.

 

Attention also turns to the bustling Klong Toey Market on Rama IV Road, where pedestrian pathway improvements are underway following the relocation of street food vendors.

 

A deadline of 16th March saw vendors moving to designated trading areas, allowing for walkway cleaning and preparation for repairs, set to commence in June and expected to last 120 days.

 

BMA's initiative asks vendors to refrain from extending their stalls onto walkways to maintain free pedestrian flow. This wave of urban renewal, at a cost estimated in millions of Thai Baht, is set to reshape Bangkok's walkways, fostering a more accessible, safer, and culturally resonant environment for the city's bustling populace, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-03-21

 

 

[JoePai]

All very good BUT, what about (say) wheelchair users ?

[proton]

2 minutes ago, JoePai said:

All very good BUT, what about (say) wheelchair users ?

 

They can use cars, or pavements with holes, obstructions and motorbikes 😚

[Tropicalevo]

What is the point when the local government puts lampposts and street sign in the middle of the 'walkways'.

Never mind the trees and bushed planted there.

[Mason45]

2 minutes ago, Tropicalevo said:

What is the point when the local government puts lampposts and street sign in the middle of the 'walkways'.

Never mind the trees and bushed planted there.

When will Pattaya get the idea?