Bangkok —
On November 7th, 2024, Bangkok Deputy Governor Chakkaphan Phiewngam convened with city agencies to review key updates on street vendor regulation, homelessness statistics, and preparations for Loy Krathong.
Since 2022, Bangkok has actively reduced public vending zones to restore order and improve pedestrian safety. This year, the city recorded 68 permitted zones, with 3,964 vendors, and 386 unpermitted zones, hosting 11,200 vendors—down from 738 zones and 16,550 vendors in 2022.
The city removed 354 vending points, including high-traffic areas like Sarasin Road and Maha Rat Road, with ongoing enforcement to prevent vendor returns.
Homelessness remains a priority, with a recent survey revealing 600 homelessness-related complaints from September 1st to October 22nd. Phra Nakhon district saw the highest numbers (117), while seven districts, including Lad Krabang and Saphan Sung, reported no cases.
A recent headcount along Ratchadamnoen Avenue identified 377 homeless individuals, leading the Social Development Bureau to open a welfare center under the Phra Pinklao Bridge. This center offers consultations, welfare access, and vocational training through collaborations with agencies like the Health Bureau and the Thai Red Cross.
Deputy Governor Sanon Wangsrangboon emphasized the need for organized food distribution at high-density spots, such as Ratchadamnoen Road and Hua Lamphong, to maintain order and hygiene.
The meeting also focused on preparations for Loy Krathong celebrations, with attention on crowd control, street lighting maintenance, and removal of obstacles to enhance public safety across the city.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
