Old paths, new strides: BMA’s overhaul project steps up to refurbish Bangkok’s pathways

Bangkok‘s Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has initiated a comprehensive project to refurbish the city’s antiquated pathways.

The objective is to create robust and user-friendly pathways that cater to the needs of pedestrians, particularly those with disabilities and wheelchair users, as per the announcement made by Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt today, November 30.

The renovation project has already taken off, with work underway on the sidewalks lining both sides of Udomsuk Road in the heavily populated district of Bang Na.

The planned redevelopment is set to cover an estimated total length of 1,600 kilometres. This includes roughly 90 kilometres along main roads, 300 kilometres within various sois (alleys), and installations at all 422 electric train stations across Bangkok, each encompassing a 1-kilometre radius.

The upgraded sidewalks will boast a reinforced concrete base topped with cement tiles, a design that promises to deliver superior strength and endurance compared to the city’s existing pathways, which have deteriorated due to over three decades of heavy usage.

Additionally, these revamped footpaths are planned to be disability-friendly, catering to the needs of wheelchair users, reported Bangkok Post.

Bangkok’s pavements are infamous for their Escherian layout and inadequate maintenance. Beyond their impracticality for individuals with disabilities, bustling pedestrian zones are frequently congested with vendors and street stalls. Moreover, when rain falls, pedestrians find themselves playing a hazardous game of minesweeper due to the uneven conditions.

As an academic, the 57 year old Bangkok governor played a pivotal role in providing counsel to the Ministry of Transport during the tenures of Thaksin Shinawatra and Samak Sundaravej governments, despite not holding an official position until 2012. It was then that Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra extended an invitation for him to assume the role of Deputy Minister of Transport.

In related news, a significant initiative has been launched in Phuket, with the city’s Municipality signing a deal to bury power cables underground along three major roads. Read more about this story HERE.