On 23 Mar, Mr. Nipon Sriruang, Director of the Canal System Division, Drainage Department, stated that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has a policy to resolve encroachment problems along Saen Saep Canal and other canals, and to develop the canals to enhance water drainage efficiency to prevent and resolve flooding. The plan includes developing canal banks into walkways and bicycle lanes to increase safety and convenience for the public, in line with the policy of safe walking and cycling along canals. Additionally, the development aims to keep canal banks orderly, clean, and attractive, while reducing pollution in Saen Saep Canal. The Drainage Department, through the Canal System Division, together with Ratchathewi District Office, has engaged in on-site negotiations to build understanding with residents encroaching on the canal banks behind Platinum Mall at Pratunam, requesting cooperation to remove encroaching structures, mostly food stalls. There are a total of 11 such stalls; recently, one more has agreed to remove their stall, totaling four removals so far, with seven remaining. The remaining owners have expressed no objection but have not yet agreed to relocate.
"BMA aims for the walkway development project along Saen Saep Canal covering the stretch from Phan Fa through Bobae, Pratunam, Asoke, Thonglor, Klong Tan, Ramkhamhaeng, Wat Sri Bun Rueang, to Bang Chan to be continuously usable by mid-2026. The section from Bang Chan to Min Buri is expected to be completed by 2027. The stretch from Min Buri to Nong Chok has budget plans for 2027 for further implementation. Overall, the project targets completing the full 47.5 kilometers by 2029 to create a walkable and bikeable city that connects all modes of travel and truly enhances livability for everyone," said the Director of the Canal System Division.