Nikorn led the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security team on a boat tour to monitor housing construction along Prem Prachakon Canal, emphasizing the advancement of the “Secure Housing” approach with a focus on community leadership rather than outside control.
On 20 Apr 2026, Nikorn Somkalang, Minister of Social Development and Human Security, visited the housing development project along Prem Prachakon Canal to review progress according to the master development plan aimed at improving residents' living standards. He received a briefing on progress at Pracharuamjai 1 community in Chatuchak district, Bangkok. Afterwards, he took a boat from Wat Samian Nari pier to Talat Laksi community in Laksi district, passing through 10 communities over 5.5 kilometers to monitor house construction and canal embankment works.
During the trip, Nikorn met and encouraged residents in Talat Laksi community, distributing support bags to vulnerable groups including persons with disabilities, elderly lacking caregivers, single mothers, and disadvantaged families to boost morale. Kantapong Rangsisawang, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Kritsada Somprasong, Director of the Community Organizations Development Institute, along with ministry executives and related agency representatives, also joined the field visit.
Nikorn stated that the housing development along Prem Prachakon Canal under the Secure Housing project has been steadily advanced to enhance quality of life for residents by applying participatory principles to reduce social inequality and provide secure housing for all groups. The project also implements proactive and systematic local cooperation. This initiative forms part of the 20-year housing master plan with the vision “Housing For All,” aiming to reduce disparities and create equal, sustainable access to state services.
The project targets 6,386 households across 38 communities in Laksi, Chatuchak, and Don Mueang districts of Bangkok, as well as Pathum Thani province. As of 31 Mar 2026, 2,597 households (41%) in 25 communities have progressed: 2,239 houses completed, 215 under construction, and 143 plots prepared. Remaining are 3,789 households, with plans for 1,423 and 2,366 households still requiring negotiation and understanding.
Nikorn added that the Ministry continues to accelerate efforts in collaboration with community organizations under the “Secure Housing” approach, which emphasizes community-led management of land and budgets to transform residents from illegal occupants into lawful homeowners. Residents expressed satisfaction and reassurance over the government's close involvement by the Ministry and related agencies, fostering confidence in housing security and improved environment. This initiative embodies the principle of “Returning happiness to canal residents, returning canals to the city people” in a tangible way.
