Many of you have seen steel posts lined up on Bangkok’s sidewalks. BMA is trying to solve the dangerous problem of motorcycles riding on footpaths. They want to fix one problem — but instead, they’ve created a bigger one.
Many countries tried this before. Mumbai installed bollards citywide — then had to redesign them. But even the new design still creates obstacles. The same is true across Bangkok.
I’ve followed and opposed this approach for over 5 years. Even with wider spacing and wheelchair-user testing, we forget other groups. Elderly with walkers. People with visual impairments. Parents pushing double strollers. Pregnant women. Tourists with heavy luggage. Everyone is affected — some have to stop, others find detours or lift belongings over the barriers. If they don’t see them, they walk straight into them.
“Good sidewalks have no obstacles” — this is the #1 requirement for a good sidewalk. Bollards of any kind violate this principle.
What’s the right solution? Consistent enforcement of traffic laws. Public campaigns that make sidewalk safety a shared responsibility.
Good sidewalks have no obstacles — bollards are the wrong solution.
Sources: Bangkok Post, Khaosod, Mumbai Mirror