Wiput urges BMA to resolve issues with the Saladaeng sidewalks, warning that removing them all at once poses accident risks and criticizing the contractor for lacking a safety plan. Meanwhile, Visanu admits space limitations and commits to accelerating safety measures at the site.
At 10:17 a.m. on 22 July 2026, at the Bangkok Metropolitan Council meeting room in the Irrawatphatthana Building, Bangkok City Hall in Din Daeng, during the first session of the third ordinary meeting, Chairwoman Phattharaporn Kengrungrueangchai presided. The council considered a live question from Wiput Sriwaurai, Bang Rak district council member, directed to BMA management about progress on the Saladaeng sidewalk improvement project (section from Silom Road to North Sathorn Road).
Wiput stated that this project is the final sidewalk infrastructure upgrade by the Bang Rak District Office for fiscal year 2026, with an estimated budget of 9,116,515 baht. The work period is 120 days, starting on 15 July, with completion scheduled for 11 September. While he supports sidewalk improvements to enhance safety and convenience, he noted that the contractor's simultaneous removal of the entire sidewalk has greatly impacted the public. Instead of phased work, the entire stretch was torn up at once, causing inconvenience for residents, office workers, tourists, and leading to accidents at the construction site.
Wiput observed that this contractor has repeatedly worked for BMA and that several district offices have faced issues with this company’s operations. Additionally, nighttime work lacks sufficient safety measures such as warning signs or signals. He questioned the management about project progress and whether completion by the deadline is assured.
Governor Chadchart Sitthipunt said Saladaeng Road has been a problematic area since he took office, with heavy foot traffic from office workers, shops, and restaurants. The sidewalks are dilapidated and have not been renovated for 18 years.
The renovation is necessary because flooding in Saladaeng alley is partly caused by construction debris like stones and cement accumulating in drainage pipes, reducing water flow efficiency. Therefore, both the sidewalks and public utilities must be upgraded simultaneously.
Deputy Governor Visanu Subsompon explained that the construction area is limited due to narrow roads and constant traffic, making work difficult. Moreover, the tender process was canceled twice because only one bidder submitted a proposal, leading to a contractor selection instead.
Visanu said the contract started on 14 May and ends on 11 September. Early challenges included site access and machinery use. Working during the day would disrupt many commuters, but nighttime work drew complaints from nearby residents. Thus, heavy machinery use is restricted to Saturdays and Sundays during the day.
Current progress includes complete demolition of the old sidewalk and stone foundation installation. Only tile paving remains. The district office assures the project will be delivered by 11 September as contracted and vows to enforce stricter safety measures at the construction site.
After the briefing, Wiput thanked management for promptly addressing the issues and expressed satisfaction that the project remains on schedule. However, he emphasized that BMA must seriously enforce contractor safety measures, as several pedestrians have already been injured. He also thanked the Drainage and Public Works Departments for their efforts to resolve flooding simultaneously.