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UPDATED 17 November
The APEC Summit brings together business and government leaders from all over the world to discuss economic growth and development in the Asia-Pacific. The gathering is held annually and, this year, it will take place in Bangkok on 18 and 19 November.
But to many Bangkokians, the summit means road closures and commuting difficulties.
Due to security concerns (global leaders like China’s President Xi Jin Ping and US Vice President Kamala Harris are confirmed to attend), the Thai government has decided to close the roads bordering Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, where the summit will be held, from 16 to 19 November at all times. Roads running to and from the center will be closed at certain times.
Benchakitti Park and MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Center will also be closed throughout the duration of the summit. Flying drones will be forbidden, too.
Here’s the list of affected roads, parks, and skywalks:
Closed for 24 hours, 16-19 Nov
- Ratchadapisek Road (the portion that runs between Asok and Klongtoey intersection)
- Duangpitak Road (that tiny road behind Benchakitti Park)
- Ratchaprasong Skywalk (between BTS Chidlom and BTS Siam stations)
- Benchakitti Park
- MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Center
- Note: Soi Sukhumvit 16's Ratchadapisek entrance will also be restricted
Closed from 15:00 to 24:00, only on 17 Nov
- Chao Phraya River (between Pinklao Bridge and Memorial Bridge)
Closed from 18:00 to 06:00, 16-19 Nov
- Ploenchit Road (inbound from Ploenchit Expressway to Ratchaprasong Intersection)
- Witthayu Road (inbound from Ploenchit to Sararin intersection)
- Ratchadamri Road (from Ratchaprasong intersection to Ratchadamri intersection)
- Soi Tonson
- Soi Ruamruedee
Adjusted to one-way traffic, from 18:00 to 06:00, 16-19 Nov
- Ratchadamri Road (outbound from Ratchadamri to Ratchaprasong intersection)
- Witthayu Road (outbound from Sarasin to Ploenchit intersections)
- Ploenchit Road (from Ploenchit Expressway to Ratchaprasong intersection)
To prevent traffic congestion, the Thai government has announced special bank holidays throughout the four days. Shuttle buses will be provided for people living and working in the affected areas. Bangkokians are also urged to work from home during the summit. Call the police hotline 191 or 1197 for information.
SEE ALSO: These are what world leaders will be eating at the APEC Gala Dinner.