Bangkok defends bus shelter costs amid public criticism
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt defended the design and pricing of new bus shelters intended to replace approximately 3,000 bus stops throughout the city. He stated that the costs are justified considering the complexities involved in their construction.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration‘s (BMA) bus shelter procurement project has faced public criticism, with detractors arguing that the design does not justify the expense. The 58 year old Bangkok chief highlighted the necessity of the project, noting that of the 5,601 bus stops in the capital, only 2,520 have permanent structures with roofs for commuters.
The remainder are temporary stops, often marked only by a route sign. Chadchart explained that constructing a new shelter involves removing parts of the pavement and relocating underground utility and electric cables, reconnecting them to the shelter. This work is restricted to nighttime to minimise disruption to pedestrians.
These challenges have discouraged contractors from bidding on the project. However, the quoted prices align with standard rates and adhere to government procurement regulations.
The Bangkok governor invited anyone capable of completing the work for 60,000 to 70,000 baht (US$1,770 to 2,070) to submit a bid.
BMA plans to replace existing bus stops with two types of shelters across Bangkok. Type M shelters, measuring 2.3 metres by 3 metres, include three seats and cost approximately 230,000 baht (US$6,790) each.
Type L shelters, measuring 2.3 metres by 6 metres, can accommodate six people and cost 320,000 baht (US$9,450) to construct, reported Bangkok Post.
The new shelters are designed in collaboration with Navamindradhiraj University’s City Lab. Addressing concerns about the shelters’ open design, Chadchart clarified that bus shelters are not intended to be fully enclosed.
Last week, the BMA addressed concerns regarding the transparency of its bus shelter procurement initiative amidst criticisms that they are as much use as a chocolate fireguard as the shelters won’t protect people from the sun and rain.
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