In the short time since the military regime seized power, footpaths in Bangkok seem tidier — at least on the surface.
Since the launch of the city cleanup operation on July 17 at Kok Wua Intersection, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has claimed success at 20 out of 21 spots in 13 districts.
Vendors have been cleared from the pavement at Kok Wua Intersection, Khlong Lot, Sihaburanukit Road in front of Chatuchak 2 Market, as well as pavements surrounding Chatuchak Weekend Market, Siriraj Hospital and between Tha Chang and Tha Tian.
At 16 other spots, street vendors are allowed to set up stalls during designated hours, under the condition that they allocate free space for the public. The areas include busy pavements on Sukhumvit, surrounding Victory Monument, in front of Siam Square, in front of CentralWorld Plaza, and along Silom Road.
BMA adviser Vichai SangparpaiMr said the persisting problem had been caused by selfish vendors and building owners who thought it was fine to take over the public space, while local mafias offered protection in exchange for a "fee". Meanwhile, corrupt police and tessakit officers pretended they didn't see the illegal vendors, he added.
A City Hall source admitted the success of the operation was partly due to the efforts of the military regime which backed the operation. Previous attempts to reclaim city footpaths were in vain because the BMA had to deal with "influential figures", some of whom threatened officers with violence.
A survey of the areas last week found many vendors were cooperating with the new rules. Vendors near Boe Be Market freed up some space for pedestrians; the pavements at Kok Wua and the walking street in Khao San area were empty.
However, there have been complaints that vendors at Siam Square, who have been ordered to use the pavement only after 7pm, have occupied the area before that time.