Large sections of the Saen Saep Canal walkway were plunged into darkness after power lines were stolen overnight, raising public safety concerns along one of the city’s busiest commuter routes. The 72-km long canal is situated in Central Thailand and passes through 21 districts in Bangkok.
The Saen Saep Canal walkway remains dark after cable thieves cut and stole power lines, sparking safety concerns among Bangkok residents Photo Courtesy David McKelvey
According to several local news sources, the theft occurred earlier this week and left pedestrian paths and bike lanes unlit, generating a wave of complaints from local residents worried about potential accidents and crime. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) confirmed that the cables had been deliberately cut and removed, and said urgent repairs are underway.
City officials are responding swiftly, deploying teams to replace the stolen cables and restore lighting as soon as possible. They’re also considering enhanced security measures, including increased patrols and more surveillance in vulnerable areas.
This latest cable-theft incident stands out because the Saen Saep route serves thousands of commuters daily. Local residents, speaking anonymously, expressed concern about avoiding the walkway after dark and urged authorities to implement long-term solutions. Among their suggestions: theft-resistant infrastructure and stricter oversight of scrap metal transactions.
It’s a serious issue: street lighting isn’t mere convenience—it’s a vital public safety tool. Experts note that darkened public spaces significantly raise the risk of muggings, assaults, and traffic accidents. Without stronger preventive action, Bangkok could face more frequent utility-targeted crimes.
While restoration work has begun, the BMA has not shared a completion timeline. In the interim, officials are urging the public to report dark or unsafe areas via the city’s hotline at 1555.
