The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has initiated renovations to the walkway at Klong Toey Market on Rama IV Road, following the clearance of a street-side market that had occupied the footpath for nearly two decades. The project aims to improve pedestrian safety and restore accessibility in one of the city’s oldest fresh markets, with completion targeted for April.
The market, known as Rim Khlong Hua Lamphong Market or Talat Lao, had been in operation since 2005, spanning over 100 metres and encroaching on pedestrian pathways. The decision to remove the stalls came after ongoing concerns about safety hazards, as pedestrians were often forced to walk on the road. Hygiene issues were also cited, with reports of waste disposal into the nearby canal leading to unpleasant conditions.
Originally intended as a temporary vending zone, the market hosted around 100 stalls, predominantly selling northeastern cuisine. The Klong Toey District Office formally revoked vendor permissions on August 30, 2018, yet street stalls continued to operate until December 2023. Following months of notice, over 100 officials, including police and personnel from the Department of City Law Enforcement, were deployed to clear the area.
With the removal of market structures, most vendors opted to relocate within Klong Toey Market. The BMA is now focusing on improving pedestrian infrastructure, including the footpath along Ratchadaphisek Road from Klong Toey Intersection to Na Ranong Intersection. Planned upgrades include new cement pavements and wheelchair-accessible ramps, designed to meet universal accessibility standards.
Officials confirmed that while the project’s budget remains modest, the improvements will provide significant benefits by creating a more organized and accessible marketplace. Plans also include designated parking spaces to ease congestion.
Local perspectives on the renovations vary. A resident, Chaturon Hundee, 57, welcomed the improvements, citing past difficulties navigating the crowded market. Longtime vendor Wittaya Saejung supported the changes but emphasized the need for designated parking for delivery trucks and ongoing government oversight to maintain order amid growing tourist visits.
Jakkapan Phiewngam, deputy governor of Bangkok, stated that the BMA continues to implement policies to phase out temporary vendor zones to improve urban cleanliness and organization. According to reports from the Bangkok Post, vendor zones across the city have been significantly reduced in recent years, despite some continuing to operate without authorization.
The BMA remains committed to reclaiming public walkways, with the Klong Toey Market improvements serving as part of a broader strategy to enhance pedestrian access and maintain citywide order.
