Bangkok survey finds 377 homeless on Ratchadamnoen Avenue
Bangkok’s initiative to survey the homeless population along Ratchadamnoen Avenue has uncovered 377 people, prompting police to record their details and facilitate access to welfare rights and vocational training.
This operation took place at the Rattanakosin Room in the Bangkok City Hall, located in the Phra Nakhon district. The meeting was chaired by Chakkapan Phewngam, Deputy Governor of Bangkok, alongside key figures such as Wanthanai Watthana, Permanent Secretary of Bangkok, and Torsak Chotimongkol, Chief Advisor to the Governor of Bangkok. The leaders convened to discuss the findings and strategies concerning homeless census and area management.
Reports from the Traffy Fondue system, which handles complaints about the homeless population from September 1 to October 22, detailed 600 cases across six zones.
Central Bangkok reported 172 cases, with North Bangkok at 83, South Bangkok at 214, East Bangkok at 45, North Thonburi at 56, and South Thonburi at 30.
Among the districts, Phra Nakhon recorded the highest number of homeless people, tallying 117. Phaya Thai followed with 24, Bang Rak with 19, and both Khlong Toei and Don Mueang at 16 each.
Seven districts reported no homeless individuals. These districts include Lat Krabang, Nong Khaem, Chom Thong, Nong Chok, Phra Khanong, Thawi Watthana, and Saphan Sung. On October 25, the Department of City Law Enforcement and the Department of Social Development conducted a survey along both sides of Ratchadamnoen Avenue and Trok Sake in Phra Nakhon. The survey identified 377 homeless individuals, comprising 303 men and 74 women.
The Department of Social Development has since established a social welfare service point, known as a drop-in centre, to provide screening, counselling, record-keeping, and data collection. This effort aims to enhance access to various welfare rights and promote vocational training.
Collaborating agencies include the Department of Health, Department of Environment, Phra Nakhon District Office, National Health Security Office (NHSO), and the Thai Red Cross Society. Services are provided under the Somdet Phra Pinklao Bridge in Phra Nakhon every Friday at 10am.
Sanon Wangsrangboon, Deputy Governor of Bangkok, urged the Department of Social Development and relevant agencies to maintain and intensify the drop-in initiative. He emphasised the need for order in food distribution at high-volume locations like Ratchadamnoen Road and Hua Lamphong, reported KhaoSod.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why is it important for Bangkok to accurately survey the homeless population?
Accurate surveys enable targeted assistance, ensuring effective allocation of resources and support tailored to the needs of the homeless community.
How might vocational training change the future of Bangkok’s homeless population?
Vocational training could offer sustainable employment opportunities, reducing homelessness and fostering economic independence and stability.
What if the drop-in centres were expanded across Bangkok?
Expanding these centres could enhance accessibility to welfare services, potentially reducing homelessness citywide through comprehensive support.
How do collaborative efforts among various departments enhance the effectiveness of homeless initiatives?
Collaborations ensure a holistic approach, pooling resources, and expertise, and facilitating comprehensive support systems for the homeless.
Why might some districts report zero homeless individuals while others show higher numbers?
Variations could stem from socioeconomic disparities, availability of services, or differing urban environments affecting homelessness distribution.
