The roadside shops along Banthat Thong Road in Pathum Wan district are set to transform into a pedestrian paradise this weekend as tourists flock on Jan 19, 2024. (Photo: Nutthawat Wichieanbut)
Get ready for an extraordinary experience as Bangkok gears up to celebrate Car Free Day this weekend on Banthat Thong Road! This vibrant event, dubbed “Bangkok Car Free 2024: Connecting for Life,” syncs perfectly with the annual World Car Free Day on September 22, as revealed by Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) spokesperson Aekvarunyoo Amrapala.
This coming Friday, the charismatic Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipunt, along with his enthusiastic team, will stream live on Facebook, diving into the riveting details of an innovative transportation project designed to broaden travel options within the bustling city.
This ambitious project roots itself in the “First Mile-Last Mile” concept, fervently encouraging the use of public transportation over personal vehicles, thus envisioning a cleaner, greener urban environment. And that’s not all; the Bangkok tourist centre in Pathum Wan district is set to pilot a groundbreaking pedestrianisation plan. This weekend, from Soi Chula 12 to 20, the street will embrace its new avatar as a pedestrian-only zone, luring in both locals and tourists for an exceptional experience.
While the beloved local shops will remain open, outside vendors will take a back seat, ensuring a seamless and authentic experience. Prepare to be enchanted by captivating street performances and mesmerized by colorful chalk paintings adorning the streets.
The BMA is keenly observing the public’s reaction; if the feedback radiates positivity, there’s a thrilling possibility that Banthat Thong Road might morph into a permanent walking street in the future. For now, get ready to explore the vehicle-free zone from 4 PM to midnight, soaking in the delightful atmosphere without the usual hustle and bustle of traffic.
This sounds like an amazing initiative! Finally, a break from the chaotic traffic in Bangkok.
Agreed! It’s about time they prioritize pedestrians over vehicles. Hopefully, it becomes a permanent thing.
I don’t know, I think this might just be a phase. People love their cars too much.
You might be right, but sometimes small changes lead to big revolutions. Fingers crossed!
Honestly, what a waste of time. This won’t solve Bangkok’s pollution problems. Focus on bigger issues!
It’s a step in the right direction, Samantha. Every little bit helps!
Exactly, Vishal! Small initiatives can raise awareness and prompt people to think more about the environment.
Awareness is just talk. We need drastic action NOW, not these cosmetic changes.
Pedestrian zones are common in many European cities. Bangkok can definitely benefit from more walkable areas.
I am excited to visit! Who’s joining me for the street performances and chalk art?
I’m in! This sounds like a fantastic way to spend the day. Plus, supporting local businesses is always a bonus.
Count me in too! I heard there’s going to be some amazing street food.
Why only one day? This should be a weekly event. It might help reduce the traffic congestion permanently.
Totally agree, Mohammed. Once a week could make a huge difference!
You young folks dream too much. Bangkok needs its streets open!
While this is great, how will it affect the daily lives of those who rely on their cars for work?
Public transportation is meant to fill that gap. We just need to improve and expand those services.
Yeah, but until then, this kind of initiative might be more of a hassle to some.
True, but if no one pushes for changes, we’ll be stuck in the same cycle forever.
I hope the feedback is positive and we get a permanent walking street! Bangkok needs more spaces for people, not cars.
Great for tourists, but I wonder how the locals feel about this.
As a local, I’m looking forward to it. Anything to reduce the noise and pollution is welcome.
Same here! It’ll be nice to walk around without the constant noise of traffic.
Remember to bring your reusable water bottles and avoid plastic waste!
Thanks for the reminder! We need to keep our environment clean.
Public events like this are great for community building. I’ll be there with my family.
I’m skeptical… won’t this just shift the traffic to other streets and make things worse temporarily?
Possible, but sometimes temporary inconvenience leads to long-term benefits.
I guess we’ll just have to wait and see.
Can’t wait for the street performances! It adds so much life to the city.
Performances like these are what make Bangkok unique.
Absolutely. It’s what I love most about living here.
Hopefully the local shops get the support they deserve!
All these comments praising the initiative, but did anyone think about the logistics? Delivery trucks, emergency services, etc.?
Good point, grower134. I hope they’ve planned for that.
I’m sure the BMA has it covered. Let’s give them some credit.