The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Thailand Walking and Cycling Institute Foundation (TWCIF) are progressing with plans to implement walking and cycling lanes across four high-traffic areas in the capital, aiming to enhance urban mobility and ease congestion. A feasibility study is expected to conclude next month, potentially setting the stage for an ambitious infrastructure overhaul through 2032.
Silpa Wairatpanij, a TWCIF board member, emphasized that the project intends to make Bangkok more pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly, with seamless links to public transport. Collaborating with the BMA’s Traffic and Transportation Department, the project aims to identify efficient routes for pedestrians and cyclists, aiming to rectify shortcomings in previous studies.
The pilot lanes will debut in Lat Phrao 71, Phrom Phong, Sam Yot, and Tha Phra, areas known for significant traffic and connections to Bangkok’s rail systems. In Lat Phrao 71, lanes will extend along routes like Lat Phrao and Chok Chai 4, linked to the MRT Yellow Line. Phrom Phong, chosen for its mix of residential and commercial spaces, connects with the MRT, BTS, and Saen Saep Canal boats. In Sam Yot, a two-kilometer radius of lanes will link local communities to Blue Line stations and nearby piers, while in Tha Phra, lanes will improve access for 68 communities to key MRT and rail stations.
These new paths are designed to prioritize safety and convenience for everyday commuters rather than just athletes or leisure cyclists. Shaded areas, green spaces, and ample lighting are incorporated to support regular users.
Some residents remain doubtful. Sakunrat Thongtongkum, a Silom office worker, expressed concerns over the heat and traffic risks for cyclists, suggesting that improvements to the city’s public transport connectivity, fare reductions, and enhanced road safety should be prioritized.
As the feasibility study concludes, the city’s next steps in sustainable urban transport await, aiming to reshape how residents navigate Bangkok’s streets, according to Bangkok Post.
