A research study submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Engineering, School of Civil Engineering

Research Studies Project Report (M. Eng.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2003

The study aims to investigate pedestrian facilities problems and deficiencies, as well as to propose recommended solutions or improvements in order to enhance walking as a friendly and safe mode of transportation in Bangkok. The concentrated locations of pedestrians in Bangkok were chosen as study areas. The information emerged from the investigation of those facilities were then inputted and could be visualized through the pedestrian facilities information system based on the application of GIS. The proposed information system would be utilized as a support tool for better decision-making with respect to the future improvement of pedestrian facilities in Bangkok. In addition, the analysis of pedestrian crossing maneuvers on staitway in front of Siam Center (a shopping center) on Rama I road was also performed. It was found that the average speeds of Thai pedestrians were 29.2 ± 0.7 m/min on ascending and 31.5 ± 1.1 m/min on descending directions, respectively with 95% confidence interval. The relationships among speed, flow and density were also derived and results indicated that relationships between speed and density were u = 29.0 - 2.8k and u = 31.0 - 3.lk for ascending and descending directions, respectively. The capacities were also found to be 75 ped/m/min on ascending and 80 ped/m/min on descending directions, respectively. Finally, results obtained from the analysis were then imported back into the proposed pedestrian facilities information system and an example for determination of suitable walking facilities e.g. the stairway was also demonstrated. This could be employed as one of support tools for planners to make appropriate decisions on the provision of safe, comfort and friendly facilities for pedestrians.