Siam Square Walking Street: 5 Transmutation after COVID-19

Abstract

In December 2019, the world turned its attention to a severe epidemic in Hubei Province, People’s Republic of China. Cases of pneumonia were reported, spreading rapidly and severely across the region. The outbreak led to a significant number of critical illnesses and fatalities, with the medical community initially unaware of the precise cause and lacking measures to counteract this new disease. The situation worsened as the number of infections and deaths increased significantly. In response, the Thai government implemented measures to control and limit the spread of the disease. These measures impacted the daily lives of citizens, particularly in Bangkok, where public parks, schools, shopping malls, and various businesses deemed high-risk for spreading the disease were closed. These restrictions severely affected businesses, leading to loss of income, liquidity issues, and, for some, eventual closures. The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on Siam Square, as well as other commercial areas and malls across Thailand, leading to a sharp and sustained decline in visitors during the outbreak. Many business activities such as restaurants, hair salons, beauty clinics, and other services requiring close contact were banned or suspended indefinitely. This situation, coupled with preventive measures, disrupted commercial activities in Siam Square. In response, Property Management Chulalongkorn University decided to use the crisis as an opportunity to address physical infrastructure issues and prepare the area for the eventual return of commercial activities after the pandemic subsides. The development plan for Siam Square was based on a Master Plan of Siam Square that focused on resolving long-standing utility problems. These included ensuring the stability of energy supplies, particularly electricity, which is vital to the area. Any disruption could have widespread repercussions on activities and cause significant economic losses. Other issues addressed were drainage and flood prevention during the rainy season, traffic congestion, and the provision of public spaces in and around Siam Square. Additionally, preparations were made to accommodate future changes, especially in communication and IT technologies. The redevelopment aimed to enhance the area’s usability and encourage public interaction by creating pedestrian-friendly spaces beneficial to the city. The COVID-19 crisis was leveraged as an opportunity to drive appropriate development in the area.