The Office of Transport and Traffic Policy Planning (OTP) is gearing up for a massive investment of 8.87 billion baht aimed at revolutionizing water transport networks across Bangkok and its neighboring provinces. Panya Chupanich, the OTP’s director-general, announced that this water transport development blueprint has already won the green light from the Transport Ministry and is now only waiting for a nod from the Office of National Economic and Social Development Council and the cabinet.
Slated for 2024-2032, this ambitious project will transform the landscape of public transport by introducing new canal routes stretching a whopping 112 kilometers to boost boat transport in and around Bangkok. The first phase, running from 2024 to 2027, will see the addition of four new canal routes spanning 52.6 kilometers.
To start, we have the S1 route, a 25-kilometer stretch meandering from Sai Mai to Phra Khanong along the Lat Phrao canal, peppered with 23 piers. This venture will be a collaborative effort between City Hall and the Marine Department.
Then comes the S2 route, an intriguing 6.8-kilometer jaunt along the Saen Saep canal from Wat Si Boonruang to Wat Bampennua, dotted with 13 piers. This extension complements the existing 17.2-kilometer route operated by Family Transport Co.
Turning the spotlight to the S3 route, this 17.1-kilometer pathway snakes its way along the Bangkok Noi canal from Pratu Nam Chimphli to Siriraj Hospital, featuring a delightful array of 18 piers.
The S4 route offers a more scenic journey, covering 6.6 kilometers along the Prem Prachakon Canal, linking Bang Sue with the PTT Park through seven piers. This route promises to be more of a tourist delight than a daily commuter grind.
As we leap into the second phase from 2028 to 2032, three new routes will be added, extending another 56.7 kilometers. The L1 route extends the S4 route from the PTT Park all the way to Wat Rangsit, accounting for 13.7 kilometers with 13 piers.
The L2 route will stretch along the Chao Phraya River from Pak Kret pier in Nonthaburi to Muang district in Pathum Thani, spanning 15 kilometers with merely three piers.
Finally, there’s the L3 route, stretching a substantial 28 kilometers from Wat Chaiyakhruekmala to Pratu Nam Maha Sawat, featuring 13 piers along its course.
Mr. Panya notes that this grand water transport project will demand a significant financial outlay, totaling approximately 8.87 billion baht, with 1.3 billion earmarked specifically for service upgrades.
This sounds like a huge waste of money. Canal routes are outdated.
Actually, water transport is very eco-friendly and can reduce congestion on the roads.
Plus, it’s a landmark project that could boost tourism!
Boost tourism? Who wants to see smelly canals? Clean up the streets first!
I’m excited for the new canal routes! Bangkok needs more diverse transport.
Are you serious? This money could be better spent on improving existing infrastructure.
Existing infrastructure? It’s already overburdened. We need new solutions!
Agreed, Henry. Roads and bridges are more practical investments.
What about the environmental impact? Will they take precautions to protect marine life?
Good point, I hope they consult with environmental experts.
I’m sure they will. Water transport can be very sustainable if done right.
They should provide more information on environmental mitigation measures.
How will they manage the water levels during the rainy season?
Bangkok has good water management systems, I’m sure they’ll handle it.
I hope you’re right. Consistency is key for commuter trust.
Is the project really worth 8.87 billion baht? Maybe there’s some corruption involved.
Can’t wait to take a scenic boat ride to work!
If it actually works. Let’s hope they finish it on time.
Too ambitious. They should start with smaller projects first.
You think small projects would get enough support and funding? Highly doubtful.
Fair point, but incremental progress is more realistic.
It’s just another vanity project for politicians to boast about.
When will they ever learn? Massive projects usually face huge delays and cost overruns.
These canal routes could significantly reduce traffic jams.
Depends on public willingness to switch to boat transport.
Could this project create new job opportunities for locals?
Absolutely! From construction to daily operations, plenty of new jobs.
Would the boat fares be affordable for the average citizen?
That’s crucial. No point if it’s priced out of reach for most people.