Traffic problems
On traffic problems, a four-pronged approach has been proposed by the Bangkok Metropolitan Region Development Committee (BMRDC), a multi-ministerial, coordinating committee set up by the Cabinet to direct and oversee the development of the Bangkok Metropolitan Region. The four strategies, with concrete workplans, are described below.11
STRATEGY 1: INCREASE THE ROAD CAPACITY. The workplans of this strategy would call for the construction of many new roads and highways in Bangkok, such as the Second-Stage Expressway linking the northern gateway with the southern gateway, the remaining sections of the Ring Road, completion of several "missing links" of road systems within Bangkok, and the construction of truck terminals on the city fringes to prevent heavy truck traffic into or out of the city.
STRATEGY 2: DEVELOP OR IMPROVE PUBLIC MASS TRANSIT SYSTEMS. The administration of the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority should be streamlined to burden it with fewer restrictions on operating a public bus service for Bangkok, and adopting a new fare system. A new "Sky Train" mass transit system should be constructed. A waterborne public transport system should be further encouraged.
STRATEGY 3: IMPROVE THE TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM. The control of traffic lights should be fully computerized and coordinated with Expressway controls. The enforcement of traffic laws and regulations should be strengthened. And the public should be educated about those traffic laws and regulations, and about rules of good driving.
STRATEGY 4: CONTROL THE VOLUME OF TRAFFIC. Staggered office hours have been suggested to reduce traffic concentration. Public offices are also encouraged to simplify administrative procedures to reduce unnecessary visits by their clients. Heavy trucks should not be allowed to enter the inner city within the next few years. The idea of collecting fees on entering central business districts should be considered. Also, as a means of increasing the traffic flow, curb-side parking should be prohibited where necessary, and parking facilities promoted and expanded.
These strategies look and sound reasonable, and many of the recommended workplans have already been adopted and are being implemented. Within the next Seventh Plan period, much capital will be invested in these traffic-related infrastructure projects in Bangkok. Most notable of all would be the Sky Train mass transit project, the Airport Tollway project, the Second-Stage Expressway project, the Ekkamai-Ram Intra Road project, and (the completion of) the Middle Ring Road project. It is hoped that if all of the above projects proceed as scheduled, they should help provide substantial relief to Bangkok traffic problems.