Bangkok Port set for a glamorous makeover: Transport ministry

Bangkok’s iconic port is about to get a dazzling transformation. The Thai Transport Ministry has unveiled plans to turn parts of the port into a buzzing entertainment complex – but there’s a catch. Officials are calling for clearer government regulations before the project can truly set sail.

Speaking at a media briefing, Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri made it clear that Bangkok Port isn’t going anywhere.

“We have no plans to relocate the port. The focus is on improving it.”

The 928-acre site, which is already crucial for water transport, is set to undergo a Smart Port Development Plan. This initiative will see unused areas repurposed for housing and commercial projects, all while keeping the port’s key logistical functions intact.

The entertainment complex is just one part of this grand vision.

“The Port of Bangkok is indeed one of the targets for this project, but it will not consume the entire area. The Port Authority has plans for mixed-use commercial spaces, more efficient transhipment, and even stadium construction.”

However, the green light is still some way off.

“If there is clarity in terms of policy, relevant agencies will meet to discuss the matter.”

Manaporn added that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is expected to form a committee to review the project thoroughly, reported The Nation.

ORIGINAL STORY: Bangkok Port shipping scene sets sail for relocation

The Bangkok Port, located in the bustling Klong Toey district, is earmarked for a potential relocation, the Transport Ministry announced. Deputy Minister Manaporn Charoensri revealed plans for a feasibility study into the port’s relocation yesterday, to transform parts of the 32-rai site into a public park.

Manaporn, responsible for overseeing the operations of the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT), shared that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin had proposed during an April 2 Cabinet meeting, a partial relocation of Klong Toey port to the Laem Chabang Port in Chon Buri. The 62 year old prime minister’s order will be followed with the formation of a dedicated committee to examine the plan further.

This relocation is complex, with multiple factors to consider, including existing lease agreements and employment contracts, Charoensri noted, referencing an initial survey conducted by the PAT.

She reassured of the impact on industrial factories and oil refineries, stating that not the entire port would be shifted. Instead, the Bangkok-born PM has proposed methods to make optimal use of leftover space or areas currently misused by the community, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion in the vicinity. Some of this space, she indicated, might be redeveloped into a public park.

Manaporn elaborated that the move to Laem Chabang Port could be beneficial from a developmental perspective. Due to the limitations of the Bangkok Port being non-deep-sea, a partial move to the deeper Laem Chabang would be more practical. PM Srettha further suggested exploring the possibility of transforming the port into a tourism hotspot.

In line with this potential new direction, the PAT’s Director-General, Kriangkrai Chaisiriwongsuk, revealed that the port’s master development plan aims to elevate it to a green port. The intention is to enhance the quality of life for surrounding communities and residents while evolving the port into a tourist pier, complete with comprehensive logistics transportation services, reported Bangkok Post.