Brace yourselves for what’s possibly the worst news of the week, guys!
It appears that city officials in Bangkok, Thailand have begun a crackdown on famous street food vendors in the famous Thonglor area, which means no more Thai street food!
According to the Thai authorities and officials, they perceive the food stalls to be an illegal nuisance and warned these vendors to clear out the streets by next week.
So far, about 90 vendors in Thonglor, Bankok will have to clear the area by Monday (17th April). Vendors who refuse to move out will be fined 2,000 baht (RM256.91).
Idk about you but I. AM. ABSOLUTELY. GUTTED!
Unfortunately, this is just the beginning of Thailand’s crackdown on street food vendors, because they do plan on clearing out vendors in other areas of the city once Thonglor has been swept clean!
The recent “cleanup” on street food stalls came after Thailand’s military began running the country back in 2014. Since then, officials have become more bold in their actions thanks to the military party, as they attempt to improve Thailand’s society.
Where’s the humanity in these people?! Don’t they realise street food is what makes Bangkok what it is?!
The official reasoning behind the clearing of these street vendors is to reduce traffic jams and garbage accumulation in the city, according to Bangkok district chief, Boontham Huiprasert.
Of course, the more serious problem at hand is that many working class Thai people will soon be displaced and out of jobs, as making and selling street food has been their main source of income for so many years.
We hope this doesn’t mean the end for Bangkok’s incredible street food, though! Our hearts couldn’t take it! Seriously, Bangkok will never be the same again! BRB while I cry in a corner now.
Also read: 11 Types of Macao Street Food Malaysians are Dying to Try