Imagine a historic canal, nestled between the vibrant streets of Bangkok’s Chinatown and the colorful alleys of Phahurat, the Indian Quarter. This isn’t just any canal; it’s Ong Ang, a waterway with tales that stretch back to the 1780s, when King Rama I, in his wisdom, decided Bangkok needed a new artery for trade and transport. This was shortly after Bangkok ascended to the prestigious role of Thailand’s capital. Ong Ang – or “Pottery Canal” as it translates, due to its bustling days as a hub for pottery trade – has seen the city evolve, from its role in the hustle and bustle of merchant life to its more recent iteration as a walking street.
Fast forward to the present, under the auspices of Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) finds itself at a crossroads. Far from the ephemeral glamor of flash events, the focus has shifted toward sustainable development. The objective? To empower local communities to reclaim and revitalize their historic canals’ identities in a way that ensures longevity and posterity.
Yet, amidst this noble endeavor, a controversy blooms, like a lotus in murky waters. A visual on a Facebook page named “Footpath of Thailand” reveals cars parked cheek by jowl along the canal’s bank, right behind the Mirama hotel, their metallic bodies defiant against the backdrop of damaged tiles. This evokes a chorus of disapproval among netizens, aimed at Chadchart and the BMA, hinting at negligence. Could this once-revered canal, which saw a drastic makeover under the previous government, transforming it into a bustling walking street, be succumbing to stagnation?
The history of Ong Ang is rich, featuring structures like the Saphan Hun, a bridge inspired by Venice’s iconic Rialto, crowned with a roof and home to various merchants. Though the original bridge succumbed to the march of time, being replaced in 1962, the spirit of commerce and community it fostered lived on. The area known as Saphan Lek emerged, a nexus for video games and electronic enthusiasts, borne from the ingenuity of vendors given sanctuary by the BMA back in 1982.
Challenges were many; by 2000 the stalls proliferating over the canal were accused of contributing to its pollution, prompting calls for their removal. It wasn’t until 2015, with a new government in power, that action was taken. The transformation was nothing short of miraculous, with a 325 million baht investment breathing new life into the canal. Not only did its banks undergo a beautification process, but it was also equipped to prevent pollution from encroaching buildings – a makeover that would see Ong Ang being honored with the 2020 Asian Townscape Awards.
In defense of the BMA, deputy governor Sanon Wangsrangboon elucidated that the portion of the canal cluttered with cars was still a work in progress, a segment of a broader vision to weave an extended walkway linking historical and cultural landmarks along the canal, ensuring a seamless experience for tourists and locals alike.
Sanon spoke of a deliberate pivot from short-lived promotional events to fostering a sense of ownership and identity within the local communities, citing how areas like Saphan Hun have burgeoned into vibrant cultural pockets, such as Little India, offering authentic culinary experiences to visitors.
As for the allegations of neglect towards Ong Ang’s upkeep, Ekwaranyu Amrapal, assistant secretary to the BMA governor, was quick to refute, outlining a robust, community-driven plan for the canal’s renaissance. Initiatives ranged from short-term engagements involving community activities to long-term strategies aimed at granting local leaders the reins to organize and promote their cultural and commercial offerings independently.
With an unwavering commitment to sustainability and community empowerment, the BMA, under the stewardship of Chadchart and his team, is navigating the challenges of urban conservation and development. The story of Ong Ang is unfolding, a testament to the enduring spirit of Bangkok, its communities, and their collective journey towards a harmonious coexistence between heritage and progress.
The transformation of the Ong Ang Canal is exactly what Bangkok needs – more sustainable urban projects that balance heritage with modern demands. Kudos to Chadchart and the BMA team!
But isn’t it just cosmetic changes? Parking cars along the canal doesn’t sound like sustainability to me. It sounds more like the same old neglect, with a green paint job.
It’s not just about the parking issue. The project also addresses pollution and aims to boost local communities. It’s important to look at the big picture.
I’ve seen the area firsthand, and it’s definitely improved. However, managing parking and ensuring the canal remains clean and accessible is crucial for long-term success.
The historical context given is fascinating. The Ong Ang Canal’s development reflects the broader story of Bangkok’s evolution from a trade hub to a modern metropolis.
Canals like Ong Ang could be Bangkok’s answer to healthier, more sustainable urban living. But it requires ongoing commitment, not just one-off projects.
How sustainable is it really when you see cars parked everywhere? Seems like they prioritize convenience over environmental conservation.
That’s a fair point, but it’s also mentioned that this is part of a bigger vision which includes dealing with such issues. It’s a work in progress.
Chadchart seems to be making real positive changes. However, sustainable urban development is complex and needs support from both governance and citizens.
Has anyone stopped to think about what the local community actually wants? ‘Sustainable’ and ‘community-driven’ are buzzwords until you ensure local voices are heard.
Exactly my thought! Engagement initiatives are mentioned, but how effective are they? Are locals truly empowered, or is it just tokenism?
Hard to say, but I have seen more community events around Ong Ang lately. It seems like there’s an effort to include, but only time will tell if it’s enough.
I wonder if technology could play a bigger role in reviving and maintaining historical sites like these. Apps, VR tours, and even drones for upkeep could be leveraged.
Revitalizing Ong Ang is a step in the right direction. But let’s not forget, sustainability isn’t just about development projects; it’s about changing our mindset and daily habits.
Visited Bangkok last year and was amazed at the transformation of the Ong Ang area. It’s initiatives like these that can really put a city on the map for eco-tourism.
True, but tourism also has to be managed carefully to avoid damaging the very heritage sites they aim to preserve. It’s a delicate balance.