First floating market in Rattanakosin
IN RESPONSE to Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha's initiative, the Phadung Krung Kasem canal near Government House in Bangkok's Rattanakosin area will be transformed into a floating market from today until March 1.
Stalls between Luk Luang Road and Makkhawan bridge will also be set up, with lots of activities such as boat races, traditional performances and art shows on offer to draw in tourists.
The market is being jointly set up by the Secretariat of the Cabinet and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration in response to Prayut’s suggestion last month.
The floating market will be open from 3pm to 8pm, while the stalls on land will ply their trade from 11am to 8pm.
Also on offer will be a sightseeing boat service available at 4pm and 5pm daily.
Local resident Pao Yamuthai, 80, said 38 years ago, boats selling noodles and other things were a common sight on the canal, but the government at the time banned the activity due to pollution fears.
“I got caught often, but continued plying my trade down the canal because it was my livelihood,” Pao recounted.
