BANGKOK — The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has begun operating its “Hawker Center” near Lumphini Park, aiming to reorganise street vendors into a structured food hub that prioritises public benefit over profit, Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said on 10 April 2026.
Following an inspection of the site, Chadchart said the project was developed from efforts to regulate street vendors around Sarasin Road and the Lumphini Park area, where informal stalls had previously caused issues related to disorder and hygiene.
Under the new model, vendors are relocated into a designated facility designed to provide stable livelihoods while improving cleanliness and public access to affordable food. Around 130 stalls have been allocated in the centre, operating in morning and evening shifts.
Rental fees are set at approximately 60 baht per stall per day, which officials said is intended to ensure accessibility for low-income vendors in a prime city-centre location. The site is equipped with standardised infrastructure, including clean water systems, drainage, grease traps, washing facilities and dining areas for customers.
Authorities said existing vendors affected by the earlier reorganisation have been prioritised for stall allocation to reduce economic disruption and maintain continuity of livelihoods. Measures are also being introduced to prevent informal subletting or profit exploitation, including restrictions on transfer of rights and plans to implement facial recognition-based identity verification.
The BMA also plans further improvements to the facility, including additional seating areas, fans and shading structures to mitigate heat. Officials said the Hawker Center model may be expanded to other areas of Bangkok in the future to create a wider network of affordable food hubs.
Located along Ratchadamri Road next to Lumphini Park Gate 5, the Hawker Center is accessible via BTS Sala Daeng (Exit 6) and MRT Lumphini (Exit 1), with nearby parking available. The site has also received support from private sector partners, including food delivery platform LINE MAN, which is assisting with payment systems, equipment and online sales channels for vendors.
“This project is not only about organising street vendors, but about creating opportunity, ensuring food affordability, and strengthening the grassroots economy while shaping the city’s identity in the long term,” Chadchart said.
The Hawker Center features well-known local vendors from the Lumphini area, with rotating stalls operating from 05:00–16:00 and 16:00–24:00. The design combines Bangkok’s street food identity with international standards, incorporating environmentally conscious features such as temporary relocation of large trees during construction, natural ventilation to reduce air-conditioning use, and roof colours designed to minimise glare affecting nearby hospitals.
Stall layouts have been standardised at 2×2 metres for 130 vendors, with improved zoning for pedestrian and traffic flow, aiming to enhance cleanliness, safety and the overall urban environment while promoting sustainable urban development.