Transforming Bangkok Port into a Thriving Economic Hub
The Bangkok Port, located in the Khlong Toei district, holds immense potential to be transformed into a vibrant new economic city, serving as a catalyst for the Thai economy while enhancing the quality of life for local residents. This vision was shared by Woraphot Kantapipat, Managing Director of MT Asset Corporation, in an interview with Thansettakij.
A Vision for Development
Ambitious plans for the area were outlined, envisioning the development of a cruise terminal, hotels, office spaces, and mixed-use buildings. These infrastructure is expected to create numerous job opportunities, alleviate traffic congestion, and reduce the impact of PM2.5 pollution in Bangkok. The proposed development aligns seamlessly with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s policy to attract foreign investments. Woraphot emphasized, “If there is any policy to promote a new economic city in the Khlong Toei neighbourhood, it would attract investors.”
Collaborative Efforts and Strategic Planning
The initiative involves a collaborative effort between the Transport Ministry, the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT), and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. These bodies have been tasked with studying the relocation of Bangkok Port and developing a sprawling area of 2,353 rai (nearly 376.5 hectares) under the “Smart Community” concept.
Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri highlighted that a dedicated committee would be established to oversee the development. While part of the port area will be retained to benefit cruise ship passengers, PAT plans to leverage advanced technologies to enhance logistics services. This includes constructing semi-automatic container storage and vertical warehouses. Manaporn noted, “This will reduce the ratio of logistics cost to gross domestic product by 0.77%, while maintaining the service capability at around 1.4 million twenty-foot equivalent units annually.”
Enhancing Infrastructure and Community Life
The redevelopment plans also encompass mixed-use projects, office buildings, residential areas, shopping malls, and public parks, all aimed at bolstering Thai tourism and supporting government policies to promote soft power and startups.
Manaporn added that vertical residences would be built to accommodate 13,000 households, addressing congestion issues in the neighborhood. Additionally, vocational training schools are planned to improve the quality of life for residents.
To support the long-term success of these initiatives, an international holding company and an infrastructure development fund will be established, facilitating public-private partnerships and fundraising efforts.
A Timeline for Transformation
All projects associated with the Khlong Toei port development are scheduled for completion by 2035. The transformation promises not only to rejuvenate the Khlong Toei district but also to set a benchmark for urban redevelopment in Thailand, drawing significant investor interest and positioning Bangkok as a pivotal economic hub in the region.