Get ready to fasten your seatbelts as Bangkok gears up for an exciting urban transformation! The bustling heart of Thailand, renowned for its spirited street life and cultural landmarks, is expecting a significant facelift by 2027. That’s right, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has announced that the much-anticipated city plan update, which was originally a brainchild from back in 2013, is finally inching closer to reality. After a series of detours and prolonged reviews by the Ministry of Interior concerning water and environmental zoning, an era of new developments is on the horizon.
Deputy Bangkok Governor, Wisanu Subsompon, recently let us in on some thrilling news: the fourth makeover of the city plan is striding ahead, now approximately 70% completed. Later this month, the draft will make its way to the desks of the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning (DPT), as the DPT gently nudged that tinkering too much with the 2013 version might not be the best idea, considering it has already been through the wringer of reviews and nods of approval.
But don’t worry, the tweaks aren’t haphazard! Each revision is carefully molded, taking into consideration governmental policy, academic smarts, and of course, the voice of the good people of Bangkok. You see, during public hearings, several interesting proposals cropped up. People are buzzing about ideas of reshaping roads, reimagining land-use to fit the current urban groove, nurturing green spaces, and weaving in new zoning policies. However, these ideas will only shine if they meet a trifecta of criteria, according to the deputy governor.
Now, what’s next in this urban journey? Well, the rainbow of land-use color codes awaits its finishing touch before another round of heart-to-heart with the public. After that, if the draft captures the urban planning panel of DPT, it will strut its way to the Bangkok Provincial Planning Committee. This stage of the journey is akin to a public showcase, giving stakeholders 90 days to voice their cheers or jeers, or even suggest a encore of changes. The grand finale, the final stamp of approval, is set to be the city’s new face by 2027.
It’s fascinating to note that during this transformation ride, Governor Chadchart Sittipunt’s first term will play its overture, culminating mid-2026. And while everyone waits in anticipation of the city’s revamped groove, the melodies of the 2013 plan continue to echo. Mr. Wisanu pointed out that this might orchestrate some discord with the city’s present-day developments and shifts.
On a lighter note of applause, former Finance Minister Korn Chatikavanij couldn’t help but praise the recent harmonious efforts of the BMA in weaving positive changes within local communities. Their proactive dance against traffic hazards and flood chaos on Facebook garnered them some well-deserved plaudits. Yet, amid the celebrations, Korn expressed his concern over the remix of zoning laws, worrying that they might unwittingly give a green light to previously naughty high-rise constructions.
So, as Bangkok sets its sights on a new horizon, it’s a thrilling, albeit cautious, time for its citizens and stakeholders. The countdown to a new and improved Bangkok is ticking, and we all can’t wait to see what this vibrant city has up its sleeve next!
I can’t believe they’re finally updating the plan from 2013! It’s about time!
Yeah, but what if they just mess it up? Sometimes sticking to what’s familiar is safer.
True, they better not over-complicate things. Incremental changes might actually work better.
Let’s not kid ourselves. Progress always involves risks. The green spaces they’re proposing are a must!
I’m worried about the zoning laws. High-rise garages in historical parts of the city are a disaster waiting to happen.
I hope they add more parks! Bangkok needs green lungs.
I heard there are plans for more parks, but I’m skeptical about their real commitment to it.
Public pressure can make them follow through. We should engage and push for it.
This sounds amazing. It’s like a new chapter for Bangkok. Go, team!
It’s cool, but look at how zoning ‘updates’ can lead to gentrification. Locals often lose out.
Fair point. Hopefully, they have contingencies to protect local communities.
Traffic will be insane during construction. Are they factoring that into this plan?
This is Bangkok we’re talking about. Traffic is always overlooked.
It’s like they assume teleporting is a thing. Common sense should prevail.
I attended one public hearing. Lots of talk, but little substance. Just my two cents.
They say public opinion is valued, but are they really listening?
It’s probably just a checkbox for them, sadly.
Disappointment may be an understatement. Active participation is key.
Bangkok’s skies could become jungles of metal and glass. Not a fan of skyscrapers.
Skyscrapers are a testament to progress. A city needs to evolve.
If only evolution was kind to traditions and culture.
Something tells me a 70% completed plan is far from being ready.
I’m excited! More attractions mean more tourism. Revenues will flow in!
Let’s hope tourism doesn’t ruin the local vibe!
The right balance is crucial. Hoping they manage it well!
The BMA could have acted faster, but better late than never, right?
They always seem to drag their feet, don’t they?
Governor Chadchart’s timeline for his term just got more interesting.