Celebrating a milestone of three transformative years at the helm, Bangkok Governor Chadchart unveiled his visionary “9 Aspects, 9 Improvements” policy. Amid the dynamic backdrop of Bangkok City Hall, a spirited gathering witnessed Governor Chadchart and his team of dedicated Deputy Governors outline a strategic course for a brighter tomorrow. The central theme? Harnessing technology and fostering a spirit of collaboration to catapult Bangkok into an era of prosperity and inclusivity.
Governor Chadchart, with eloquence and energy, championed the principles of knowledge, technology, transparency, and empathy as the foundation of his administration. “Our mission is to foster mutual trust between the government, private sectors, and the public,” he asserted with conviction. “This trust is built on pillars of knowledge and technology, transparency and accountability, and above all, empathy. As we charge into the 4th Year, our vision is to transform Bangkok into a beacon of opportunity and hope, where no one is left behind.”
A core tenet of Governor Chadchart’s leadership has been robust public engagement. The success of Traffy Fondue, a platform empowering citizens to report issues, is testament to this. An impressive 754,004 out of 929,853 reported problems have been resolved, boasting a whopping 81% satisfaction rate from the public. A new city-wide buzz is in the air!
Bangkok’s streets are no longer the wild, vendor-packed lanes they once were. Thanks to assertive measures, 446 locations have been organized, resulting in a reduction of street vendors by over 5,300. This has opened up more than 1,100 kilometers of pedestrian-friendly paths for city dwellers and visitors to enjoy.
The green revolution is also underway in Bangkok. A combined public and private sector effort to plant a million trees has far exceeded expectations, with over 1.8 million trees gracing the city. In addition, 199 charming fifteen-minute parks have been established near residences, and lush roads now adorn all 50 districts.
Technology is a game-changer in Bangkok’s cityscape. Adaptive traffic lights have been deployed at 72 intersections, shaving off 15% of travel delays. Meanwhile, 100 AI-powered CCTV cameras watch over the city, feeding into a verification system that operates round-the-clock with precision.
Bangkok’s education sector is reaping the benefits of digital innovation. Digital classrooms equipped with Chromebooks have resulted in a 28% boost in student performance. Transparency hasn’t taken a back seat—over 4 million users have tapped into the Bangkok Open Data platform, which discloses machine-readable budget data, procurement processes (Open Contracting), and even collaborates on international procurement contracts.
One hallmark of efficiency, district office permit application processes have transitioned online, including building permit processes, reducing review times to a mere 14 days, making life easier for all parties involved.
Bangkok’s citizens are undergoing a health revolution. The Million Health Checks initiative has reached 787,629 individuals, laying the groundwork for informed public health strategies. The futuristic Health Tech Center, Bangkok Metropolitan Online Clinic (Health Tech), and Telemed services at eight locations have already served over 92,000 users.
Governor Chadchart’s vision prioritizes collaboration across generations. Harnessing youthful energy alongside experienced minds, Bangkok is being shaped with fresh ideas and seasoned expertise. A prime example is the New Generation City Council with over 800 members and 40 active teams, where youth are actively crafting policy proposals.
Bangkok’s commitment to social inclusivity is commendable. Through initiatives like the BKK FOOD BANK, over 4 million meals have found their way to vulnerable communities. Celebrating diversity, the city has hosted vibrant Pride Month events and significantly increased opportunities for people with disabilities.
While Bangkok may be buzzing and bustling, the city isn’t without its share of challenges. But, as the saying goes, crises also breed opportunity. From tackling flood-prone areas to addressing infrastructure woes like potholes and overweight trucks, Bangkok has implemented innovative solutions.
Volunteer engineers have inspected structures following earthquakes, and hospitality partners like Airbnb have offered free accommodation for those displaced, showcasing a city united in adversity.
In a commendable stride for sustainability, Bangkok’s waste management has reached new heights. By championing waste separation at the source, daily waste generation has dipped by over 12%, saving the city a staggering 1.2 billion baht.
Looking to the future, Governor Chadchart is set on supporting affordable public transport, creating lively public spaces, and even more ambitious projects like a Business Lab for small enterprises, expanding health services, enhancing technology in education, and pioneering efforts in waste management.
As he closed his address, Governor Chadchart reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to building a more liveable, efficient, and hope-filled Bangkok, a city where innovation and community flourish hand in hand.
This is an impressive vision, but why is so much emphasis placed on technology? Not everyone has access to these resources!
Technology is crucial for modern cities! Adaptive traffic, digital classrooms, these are innovations that improve daily life.
I get that, but we need more equitable solutions for poorer communities.
Anna, tech access should be prioritized for these communities to bridge the digital divide! It’s essential.
Agreed, Anna. Local libraries or community centers could serve as technology hubs!
What’s with all these trees and parks? Seems like a waste of money when there are more pressing issues like floods.
Bangkok desperately needed more green spaces! They’re critical for health and reducing urban heat.
I just think budget allocations should be a bit more balanced.
Governor Chadchart is doing an excellent job! Transformations this large don’t happen overnight, but he has made a huge start.
But what about the street vendors? Reducing over 5,300 seems harsh to their livelihoods!
Street vendors need organized zones, it’s safer and more sustainable.
Totally agree. Many families depend solely on these street sales!
Exactly, an alternative plan should’ve been in place for these vendors.
I love the push for waste separation and reduction. It’s about time Bangkok takes environmental issues seriously!
Maybe so, but a 12% reduction isn’t going to solve everything overnight.
Every small step counts! It’s a journey, not an instant solution.
It’s inspiring to see young people getting involved in policy proposals. Youth often feel sidelined in such matters.
Youth don’t have the experience those with years in the field do. This could backfire.
Experience is taught, and young energy brings fresh perspectives!
The health reforms sound promising, especially access to telemedicine. It’s futuristic and much needed.
Bangkok is already overcrowded, and these improvements will just increase housing demands and costs!
Urban development is unavoidable; balance and smart planning help.
Digital classrooms are such a great idea! They’re the future of education.
It’s refreshing to see a plan that considers inclusivity. I hope the support for the vulnerable continues.
The technology in traffic lights needs to happen faster! Gridlock in certain areas is a nightmare!
Is anyone else worried about privacy issues with all these AI-powered CCTV cameras?
A city that fosters opportunity and hope. That’s the Bangkok I dream of!
Government plans rarely deliver as intended, let’s see how this evolves.
The Business Lab initiative could really catapult small enterprises if done properly.
Collaborating across generations is where the magic happens; wisdom meets fresh ideas.