City Hall claims the controversial Chao Phraya riverside promenade will help tackle problems of water pollution and encroachment on public areas by locals as it sought to allay residents' concerns about the project.
Speaking at a press briefing in Bangkok on the ambitious promenade project Monday, City Clerk Peerapong Saichua said the project will include programmes to improve the quality of water in the river, boost the local economy, and enhance the quality of life of riverside residents.
The so-called New Landmark of Thailand is a 14km section of riverside promenade, stretching from the Rama VII to Pinklao bridges, and will be part of a wider 57km project that runs through Bangkok.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has hired King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang and Khon Kaen University to conduct a feasibility study on the promenade, named the "Chao Phraya for All", which was expected to be completed this month.
The Chao Phraya River has been a historical and cultural symbol for Thais, but is being ruined by development and neglect, Mr Peerapong said.
He criticised residents who violate the law by building houses that encroach onto the river, and those who pollute the water with rubbish and waste.
Illegal possession of the river by some groups of people has also been a hindrance to authorities' efforts to make the promenade project proceed with greater haste, Mr Peerapong said.
He cited data by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment showing water quality in the Chao Phraya River has deteriorated over time due to chemicals and industrial waste as well as human activity.
The embattled project has been slammed by critics including residents and architects for its "misguided budget" and "half-baked planning" since its launch.