BMA assesses Thon Buri historical sites to boost tourism

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) embarked on a comprehensive assessment of historical sites in Thon Buri to promote tourism and bolster the city development plan.

Thaiwut Khankaew, director of the BMA’s City Planning and Development Department, stated that his team, alongside A-Seven Corporation, a consultancy firm, recently visited numerous communities and landmarks. Their objective is to enhance land use potential and stimulate the economy at the district level in Thon Buri.

The survey included Khlong San district, where the team visited Wat Anongkharam, Goowatin Islam Mosque (the red-building mosque), Seyfee Mosque, the Guan Yu Shrine, and the Princess Mother Memorial Park. They also explored Wat Rakhang Khositaram in Bangkok Noi district, among other notable locations.

“We gathered information on the social, cultural, economic, and physical characteristics of the areas that have the potential to be affected by the city development plan.”

The team documented public transport routes, the locations of significant historical sites, and issues within surveyed areas, such as overcrowded communities and encroachments on public, temple-owned, and Treasury Department-owned land.

Thaiwut mentioned that the consultancy firm is tasked with studying land lease agreements and the feasibility of developing a riverside walkway from the Kadi Chin area to Din Daeng Pier. Additionally, they will examine the ownership of vacant land plots along the Chao Phraya River, including one near Seyfee Mosque.

City Hall has also proposed constructing a bridge across the Chao Phraya River to link the Lhong 1919 community mall with Sawasdee Pier, reported Bangkok Post.

Thaiwut added that the BMA plans to renovate the landscape of several public parks in Thon Buri.

“The BMA will analyse the Thon Buri area’s growth potential using economic and social data to add value to the old city area.”

In related news, Bangkok’s launch of its new electric BRT buses on the Sathorn-Ratchaphruek route sparked significant criticism online due to numerous issues on the first day of service.

These problems include an insufficient number of buses, longer waiting times, and malfunctioning doors.