The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) plans to turn Silom, Yaowaraj and Khao Sarn roads in Bangkok into walking streets, starting Sunday December 15th, to stimulate domestic tourism and the economy.
Deputy Bangkok Governor Sakonthee Patthiyakul said yesterday that Silom, from Saladaeng intersection to Nararom junction, will be closed to all vehicles from noon to 10pm, starting on December 15th. The closure will then occur every third Sunday of the month until May.
As for the Yaowaraj walking street, in the China Town area, the walking street event will be held from Friday December 13th to Sunday December 15th from 7pm to midnight
Khao Sarn walking street will, however, be held on Monday December 16th, with adjacent Tanao and Sibsam Hang roads to be closed in addition to Khao Sarn Road.
Entertainment activities, such as concerts, will be held on Silom and Yaowaraj roads, with additional cultural activities, such as Khon mask dance performances and Talung shadow play planned for Khao Sarn, an area favoured by backpackers.
The next walking street will be in Khlong Bang Luang in Phasi Charoen district, on the opposite side of the Chao Phraya River, with an emphasis on showcasing the area’s cultural richness and temples. Six events are planned during weekends, starting from January 18th, and to facilitate travel to the area, shuttle boat service frequency will be increased.
Kadeechine in Khlong Sarn and Thon Buri districts are also earmarked for cultural and street food festivals, to be held every three months, tentatively starting in January.
