City Hall has another big project in the pipeline − a pedestrian tunnel on Asok Road to ensure pedestrians’ safety.
Bangkok governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra introduced the idea yesterday as he opened a new pedestrian flyover, also in the Asok area.
Asok Road has been in the spotlight after a tragic accident last month when a woman was hit by a small lorry as she crossed the road on a pedestrian crossing. The poor woman − who was killed instantly at the scene − thought she had the right of way as the pedestrian light had turned green. But the lorry driver jumped the red light on his side. He tried to flee but was caught by people in the area.
The worst part about this is that several witnesses said accidents of this type are not a rare occurrence. Many motorists tend to ignore pedestrian lights and often hit pedestrians who are just following the traffic rules.
The accident prompted city officials to come up with a plan to ensure pedestrians’ safety. They should get some credit for not allowing the issue to fade from public attention. Initially, they launched an immediate measure, painting two white zig-zig strips to highlight the crossing in the hope it would better catch motorists’ attention. The zig-zag is said to be a success but City Hall thinks it needs to do more.
MR Sukhumbhand said the city management had discussed other possible options for the area, which included a flyover and an extended skywalk. The tunnel seems to be the best option, he said.
As soon as the reports were made available on news websites yesterday, netizens could not wait to criticise it. And I agree with them for simple reasons.
To start with, building a tunnel will make the traffic worse in the already-jammed area for months. Asok is notorious for heavy traffic almost around the clock. Construction work would add to the traffic nightmare. Besides, some netizens think most tunnels are not used much by pedestrians. It’s dangerous in another way regarding crime, especially at night. And they are right.
In addition, building a tunnel on the route of underground train would be complicated.
Finally, a tunnel will cost a lot. We don’t know how much but it would undoubtedly amount to millions of baht.
If we allow the governor to build a tunnel here, what about other areas?
Actually, every road in Bangkok is a death trap for pedestrians. This is a plain fact. No exaggeration. It should be noted that many accidents, some fatal, have occurred right on pedestrian crossings.
They will continue to be dangerous unless motorists change their driving habits or are made to change their habits to respect other people’s lives, especially those who walk or pedal.
Recently, a Facebook friend slammed the idea of building more flyovers. He said the structures are ugly and not old people-friendly. He is right.
My friend asked this simple question, too: Why is it so difficult to implement the law, forcing motorists to respect pedestrian crossings? It’s one of the most basic rules for motorists − stopping their cars at pedestrian crossings.
Yes, I know it will not be easy.
I cannot remember how many times I have been bullied by motorists on pedestrian crossings when I had right of way (and how many times I have scolded those unkind motorists). I am sure many readers must have had similar experiences. Even when I drive and slow down to allow people to cross the road, jerks behind me honk their horns. And I think Thailand is the only place in the world where people need to look both ways when they are crossing a one-way road!
Should we continue to tolerate this? I think not.
My point is: Forcing motorists to respect pedestrian crossings is an option with zero cost. We can make our roads safe without spending any money. But the authorities will have to work hard, and toughen law enforcement. Make punishment harsher (manslaughter for the lorry case, for example). Then motorists will feel the need to abide by the law.
And keep those measures, don't allow them to fizzle out. The one launched by police some months ago has disappeared.
It’s time to renew those efforts without delay.
Ploenpote Atthakor is deputy editorial pages editor, Bangkok Post.