This paper aims to describe causes of urban growth in Bangkok and to investiga
te
the commuting patterns of the poor in Bangkok. The result indicates that population growth,
both in terms of natural increase and a large number of net in
-
migrants coupled with rapid
economic growth prior the economic crisis in Thailand. And also the
ineffective land use
policy and regulations of federal and local authorities and the promotion of land transport and
private vehicle use, also increase Bangkok urban area rapidly. Negative effects of rapid
growth of Bangkok are identified. Moreover, the r
esult also reveals commuting patterns are
different among commuter’s demographic and household characteristics. Majority of
commuters commute to work within their residential districts, particularly commuting within
outer of Bangkok. Public transport and
n
on
-
motorized mode are the necessary mode of
transport for the poor and low status commuters in terms of levels of education and
affordability. Comprehensive land use policy and practices are needed to investigate and
implement. Mass rapid transport is need
ed to construct throughout the city as an effective
transportation network.