Bangkok markets stay open as floodwaters turn streets into makeshift rivers
Vendors in Bangkok's Bang Kapi district are selling goods from waist-deep floodwater while shoppers navigate the streets by kayak and other small boats.
Bangkok's eastern Bang Kapi district remains under water following heavy rains that prompted a city-wide flood disaster declaration. Despite waist-deep water, market vendors have set up stalls along the flooded streets, displaying meat, fish, fruit and vegetables, while shoppers traverse the area in kayaks, canoes and even wheelbarrows loaded with plastic-bagged produce. Many customers use floating polystyrene boxes, plastic tubs or an inflatable pool to keep items from getting soaked, and some push shopping trolleys through the water carrying essentials like toilet paper.
Inside a flooded indoor market, a few stalls have reopened, though several remain shut. Authorities report no deaths, but damage to homes and businesses is expected to be extensive.
Why it matters
The story shows how Bangkok residents adapt to severe flooding, keeping daily life and commerce moving despite hazardous conditions.
How this story developed
- Sep 26 Bangkok declares citywide disaster as torrential rains dump nearly 300 mm since Thursday
- Sep 26 Temporary shelters have been opened, now housing roughly 900 people.
- Sep 27 Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul cut short his London trip to oversee the flood response.
- Sep 27 Rain has eased and canal water levels are beginning to drop.
- Sep 28 The Indonesian embassy confirmed that one of its citizens was stranded at a hotel after access roads were submerged.
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