For decades water transport and the riverside way of life have been vanishing from the city's canals. But today, everything is being done to restore the "Venice of the East" image, with City Hall's latest offering being to bring the much appreciated floating market to the heart of Bangkok, close to Government House.
City Hall has begun restoring the 'Venice of the East' at Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem following a call by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha for the canal and its banks to be turned into a market.
The floating market will be situated on Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem alongside Government House from Thursday to March 1. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's (BMA) move to restore the market has come as something of a surprise, but it follows a call by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha for the canal banks to become a market place again as they were decades ago.
Visitors will find something different to enjoy, said BMA spokeswoman Threedow Aphaiwongs. A variety of food stalls both on the banks and in boats, entertainment, recreational activities and special services from district offices will all be present.
The site of the latest floating market is close to the old main junction — in front of Nang Loeng Market — where produce and goods were once brought from outside the capital, said Rapeepat Ketkosol from the BMA's tourism division.
Based on the history of the surrounding communities, Mr Rapeepat said there should be at least three floating markets in the area.
The market is aimed at boosting local produce and enhancing the quality of life of residents living near the canal by generating an income for them.
The new enterprise follows the successful orchid market that was set up near Government House, to help stimulate trade in the flowers when prices declined.
A source said Gen Prayut was impressed by the enchanting atmosphere of the orchid market where buyers meet sellers. Gen Prayut expects to preside over the opening of the floating market on Thursday.
According to Ms Threedow, a colourful lifestyle along the canal where food vendors in boats will ply their trade and farm produce will be on offer is the central theme.
But the water in Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem these days is known more for its smell than for enhancing the scenic views of old. To make the market more memorable and appealing, City Hall has spent the past week cleaning the water and the walkways.
Members of the police bomb squad, soldiers, workers from the Dusit district office and the BMA's drainage and sewerage department, together with Ruam Katanyu Foundation, have been cleaning up Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem.
The department has also drained off canal water into the Chao Phraya River and replaced it with cleaner water.
"Imagine you take a time machine to travel back into the past. We will encourage visitors to dress in period costumes to add to the atmosphere," Ms Threedow said.
Visitors will cruise along 350 metres of Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem, starting from Orathai Bridge heading to Makkhawan Rangsan Bridge and enjoy a variety of food offered by boat vendors. Unlike other markets, this one will feature boat races.
Traditional Thai games and pastimes, hardly seen in the city will also provide some fun for visitors, who can hire boats to cruise along Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem. Taking a trip along the canal will be a new and exciting experience for urban residents.
On the banks, visitors will find a plethora of food kiosks on one side of the canal. This lively venue will also offer an assortment of products including fresh fruit, vegetables and local produce. "Grandmother" Thai desserts and local specialties will also be found.
A tour can be arranged upon request to explore city landmarks in close proximity to Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem.
There will be an open space available for recreational activities including concerts.
The highlight will be an exhibition and seminar on "The significance of waterways to the way of life of the Thai people".
BMA municipal officials (tessakij) will conduct patrols along the canal to provide protection and security for visitors.
The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department will also be on standby in case of emergencies. A medical team from the Department of Health will also be at the market.
Dusit district chief Visut Thamviriyavong said City Hall had approved a budget of 7 million baht requested by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Department (CSTD) to be spent on event activities.
The CSTD has been assigned to oversee the event, while Dusit, Phra Nakhon and Pomprap district offices will support the department.
The Public Works Department is working to ensure that water transport for visitors is safe and efficient.
The Social Development Department will help vendors set up their stalls.
Mr Visut said the Dusit district office will have facilities allowing visitors to register for their Thai identification cards or renew them.
On Valentine's Day, a mobile marriage registration service will be available for couples wanting to tie the knot on the special day.
To make the event more fun, he said, the office plans to set up locations adorned with flowers and other decorations in vibrant hues for couples looking to have their photographs taken.
Among the guests for the Valentine's Day activities is likely to be Dumrong Phuttan, the owner of Kusang Kusom magazine ("soul mate").
Mr Visut said vendors are not being charged for the spaces they book.
"That's a trick to attracting [vendors] to participate in the event," he said adding that it would also encourage vendors to offer their wares at very reasonable prices.
City Hall officials have spent the past week cleaning the canal banks and replacing water in the canal. photos by Thiti Wannamontha