Gentrification and displacement: The impacts of mass transit in Bangkok

Abstract

There is limited research regarding gentrification's relationship with mass transit and, more generally, a lack of qualitative research that explores the experiences of those impacted by gentrification. This study aims to bridge this gap by examining through interviews the experiences of new and incumbent residents in two neighbourhoods along a mass transit extension line in Bangkok. Results show that new-build gentrification and displacement are occurring in the case study area due to mass transit. Residents' views are generally mixed. However, extremely negative views exist amongst those displaced, and the dangers of quantitative measures of displacement are evident.

对于城市中产阶级化与公共交通的关系，目前缺少研究。对于受城市中产阶化 影响的人群，也缺乏定性研究。本文旨在通过访谈，考察曼谷两条公共交通线 沿线两个居住区的新老居民，以填补这方面的空白。研究结果显示，搬迁和建 的中产阶级居住区与该地区公共交通的发展相伴随。居民对此看法各异。搬人 群强烈反对这种做法，而大规模搬迁的危险显而易见。

Keywords::

• mass transit
• new-build gentrification
• Bangkok
• impacts
• displacement

Funding

This research was funded through a Seed Grant from Mahidol University International College.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Notes

^1. Previous reports can be retrieved from http://www.colliers.co.th/research-publications/market-reports.asp. However, data for this article was provided personally to the author from Colliers International Thailand in 2012 and 2014.

^2. A condominium is included in the supply when each unit in the building has a full title deed.