Vendors at Prawet markets allowed to continue business until end of month
VENDORS IN three markets illegally operating in the Seri Villa housing project in Prawet district can continue operating their businesses until the end of this month when they have been ordered to close down.
Prawet director Thanasit Metpunmuang said the grace period was being granted for the vendors in Suan Luang, Rungwanich and Romlueng markets so that they could sell their remaining goods.
He was speaking after a meeting with the owners and vendors of the five markets and a convenience store at Prawet district office.
The closure of the three markets, which have run their businesses in the housing project for many years without permits, was ordered by Bangkok Governor Aswin Kwanmuang on Wednesday.
Thanasit said that businesses in the three markets will be closed until their owners could secure required permits. Anyone violating the order will face legal action. He referred to a complaint against the BMA and its officials filed by homeowners in the housing project and now before the Administrative Court.
Members of the Sangyoktrakarn family accused the BMA and officials of allowing the presence of markets in the area despite it being a residential community. They complained that the markets and shoppers have disturbed their lives by causing pollution of all kinds and blocking their gates with vehicles.
“If the court rules in favour of the family, all the markets have to be removed,” Thanasit said. An investigative panel has been set up to look into the problems, he said. However, Yingnara and Ple markets could continue their businesses as they have commercial permits. However they must follow rules against selling certain items, including fresh meat, and must provide 14 car-parking spaces, said Thanasit.
During the meeting, the owners and some 300 vendors of the three markets promised to abide by the order and rules, the director said. The two remaining markets have to ensure their businesses will not cause trouble for the residents. The owner of Ple market was absent.
The public learnt about the decade-long conflict after two sisters of the Sangyoktrakarn family attacked a pickup with an axe and a spade. The truck was parked in front of their house, preventing them from leaving the place.