I recently watched the live stream of Chadchart Bangkok Governor’s inspection at the Ploenchit intersection. While I appreciate the efforts, I believe some crucial points were missed. I’m writing to provide additional feedback to facilitate more effective and targeted improvements.
1. Steep Sidewalk at BTS Ploenchit (RESOLVED!):❤️
The entrance to “Ploenchit House” was previously inaccessible to wheelchair users due to a dangerously steep drop. I’m pleased to report that this has now been rectified, with the surface leveled to match the sidewalk. Thank you to the BMA and all involved for this positive change.
2. Near-Zero Accessibility at Ploenchit Intersection:💔
The overpasses and skywalks connecting from the BTS station across the intersection are almost entirely stair-based. This presents a significant barrier for people with disabilities, the elderly, and those with mobility impairments.
3. Incomplete Lift Installation at BTS Ploenchit:💔
The BTS system (owned by the BMA) typically provides lifts on both sides of smaller, less complex stations; Ploenchit station only has one lift.
– On the Park Ventures building side. This lift is not publicly accessible; users must contact the building for access, navigate through the parking garage (which is dark and potentially dangerous), and it is not designed for safe pedestrian use.
– Accessing other buildings is similarly problematic.
Recommendation: Install at least one publicly accessible lift at BTS Ploenchit on the Park Ventures side, with ground-level access in a public area, not within a building.
4. Stair-Dominated Environment:💔
The BTS skywalks, overpasses, and main building entrances are predominantly stair-based. I urge the Governor to expedite solutions to this issue.
5. Dangerous Street Crossing at Ploenchit Intersection:💔
I often have to cross the road like a vehicle, as depicted in the image. Four years ago, during a xWalk event with the Finnish Ambassador, Mr. Renaud and the UNDP team, my legal advisor, the youth groups, and relevant government agencies, attempted a “saba-style crossing”. It was fun, but when we do a crossing alone is even more precarious – a constant risk of being hit by traffic.
7. Need for Safer Ground-Level Crossings at Ploenchit Intersection:💔
Safe ground-level crossings are insufficient. I urge the immediate addition of clearly marked pedestrian crossings (zebra crossings) with traffic signals that cater “FOR ALL” users.
8. Nai Lert Intersection Corner – Walkable but Needs to Be Wider: ❤️💔
At the Nai Lert marker, I’d like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Central Embassy for allocating space to facilitate pedestrian movement. However, I’d like to offer additional feedback: this is a critical area with a high volume of pedestrians, yet the walkway remains too narrow compared to the expansive lawn nearby, which creates a stark contrast. I humbly appeal to the leadership of Central Embassy to consider redesigning this area beautifully, with the goal of significantly widening the walkway for better pedestrian flow.
Let me provide an example of “Bangkok’s standard ramps.” In most cases, we see ramps labeled as “for people with disabilities” that are narrow and restrictive. While they serve their purpose, they fall short of creating an inclusive environment. I’ve previously described these as “narrow-hearted ramps” when discussing them with Bangkok authorities.
What needs to change is our understanding of ramps as a basic convenience for “everyone to use together”, improving accessibility for all and fostering a sense of community (Inclusive Living). The approach should be to “make them as wide as possible”, extending across the full width of the crosswalk. This would give the impression to anyone passing through that this is “a crossing for everyone.” It reflects the mindset of the creators as being “open-hearted and broad-minded, as vast as the ocean.”
This is a sensitive issue, but I firmly believe that global business leaders with strong social responsibility policies will see its value. Additionally, I recommend designing the front of this area to be iconic and memorable. Enhancing its visual appeal will make it a significant point of interest (POI) where people naturally stop to take photos. This would be an invaluable CSR and CSV effort that gives back to the “giver” in immeasurable ways. “Give more, gain more”.
9. Improved Overpass Stair Placement (Excellent!):❤️
I’m pleased to see that the overpass staircases have been repositioned to minimize obstruction. This is a positive step. This improvement should be implemented citywide, and any new overpasses must be accessible to all and not impede pedestrian flow.
However, in the long term, overpasses are not the ideal solution. We should prioritize safe ground-level crossings.
10. Dangerous Pedestrian Access Near the Expressway:💔
People are forced to walk under the expressway and across the railway track to reach the other side of the intersection. This area is dark and extremely dangerous, especially at night.
11. Motorcycles riding on the sidewalks:💔
Even after 2.5 years of your administration, motorcycles are still frequently seen riding on sidewalks.
12. Ramp Standards:💔
A standard ramp should have a gradient no steeper than 1:12 (1 unit of height for every 12 units of length).
13. “Pitying for wheelchair users” IS NOT RIGHT:💔
What others say may not carry as much weight, but you, as the Governor of Bangkok, are the highest authority and the one who can change the city for the better.
Instead of “pity,” we need understanding and, more importantly, swift action to create a truly accessible city that meets at least basic legal standards.
14. One Problem Reflects the Entire City:ℹ️
Accessibility issues at this single intersection (including the roads, buildings, and BTS station) reflect systemic problems across Bangkok. Sorry that I’ve to say, these issues should have been addressed within the first three months of your administration.
15. Diverse Physical Abilities; Equal Rights to the City:ℹ️
It’s crucial to understand that people have diverse physical abilities, and everyone has equal rights to access the city. This is not just about “people with disabilities,” but about creating an inclusive environment for all. Bangkok’s current accessibility standards are inadequate and require urgent attention.
16. 20-Year-Old Accessibility Laws:ℹ️
We have had laws regarding basic accessibility for 20 years (the Building Control Act and Ministerial Regulations on Accessibility in Buildings). While public awareness campaigns are important, it’s time to effectively enforce these existing laws.
17. One Point, One City, Reflecting A Country wide and the World Policy:ℹ️
While specific solutions may vary across different areas, the core principles of accessibility remain the same. The points I’ve raised can be applied to urban development throughout Thailand and yes in every country.
Bangkok Governor – Chadchart’s FB Live:
https://www.facebook.com/100063560537541/videos/1712709716119394
#CityWalk – Ploenchit Intersection 4 years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/AccessibilityIsFreedom/posts/pfbid0EXPxUrse5baxVE9ggiCSnNz4DngAiGnwUCspisKmwipkcJXmzqLjGQN2bsGYxRNNl