BANGKOK, 30 August 2011 – The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is scheduled to hold a seminar to find solutions to the problem of homeless persons at Sanam Luang and surrounding areas.
After Sanam Luang ceremonial ground was reopened early this month, Deputy Bangkok Governor Teerachon Manomaipiboon stated that the BMA would soon organize a seminar aimed at tackling the problem related to the homeless population within the area. The seminar will be attended by Bangkok Governor MR Sukhumbhand Paribatra and his deputies as well as representatives from the Human Settlement Foundation and well-known monk Phra Phayom Kalayano, Abbot of Suan Kaew Temple in Nonthaburi.
As a preliminary solution, nine offices of the Suan Kaew Foundation with a combined space of 1,669 rai will be utilized for accommodating the homeless persons. Out of the offices’ total capacity of 4,000 individuals, the current number of occupants stands at 1,400.
During their stay, the Suan Kaew Foundation will provide vocational training and job opportunities for the homeless group. The BMA also plans to establish an aid fund for them with a target to raise at least 10 million THB by 5 December this year. The proceeds will be spent on building homes and purchasing other necessities for the needy.
In addition, Mr Teerachon said the BMA had also developed the old Mansri Branch Office of the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority into a homeless shelter that could accommodate up to 100 persons.
