Bangkok is a ‘war zone’ for Thais with disabilities (Photos)

Manit “Saba” Intharapim appears in one of his “War Zone” posters, at left. Image: Manit Intharapim / Courtesy

By Chayanit Itthipongmaetee

Mar 2, 2023 | 12:06pm Bangkok time

“Every time I leave the house, it feels as if I’m going into a war zone,” a man battling for a better Bangkok once told us. And now he has splashed that perspective across creative, apocalyptic posters warning would-be travelers.

Disability rights activist Manit “Saba” Intharapim yesterday published a series of satirical travel posters that show the state of conflict that exists for Bangkok’s mobility-impaired residents.

The 11 posters are warnings for potential visitors and include the phrases “War Zone” and “Thailand is a war zone.” They feature all-too-familiar scenes of Bangkok’s pedestrian-unfriendly environment, from the potholes and damaged footpaths to the you-shall-not-pass utility poles and killer cars that make the city difficult and dangerous for those with disabilities.

He published the posters with a sober warning for those considering travel to Bangkok who are unaware of how inaccessible it can be.

Manit Intharapim: Elevator-punching icon fights for a better Bangkok – for all

“This is the reality of Bangkok and every province in Thailand,” Manit said. “While the city developed over decades, the ‘perfect journey’ for people with disabilities has yet to happen.”

“We have laws, regulations, and everything in place; yet, if you look around, we will see that even the footpaths are dangerous and risky for pedestrians to commute on,” he added.

Manit is a prolific 56-year-old activist who has made it his mission to promote a more accessible and inclusive city. His most notable victory was a landmark 2015 court ruling that ordered City Hall to outfit all BTS Skytrain stations with elevators. In 2018, he earned the nickname “elevator-punching man” after he smashed a glass elevator with his fist after being denied access to a lift at BTS Asoke. “I’m done waiting,” Manit said.

Manit has built extensive connections and now regularly deals with everyone from student activists, politicians and architects to mall executives and transport guards. His goal is to make Bangkok into a “truly accessible” city. Coconuts Bangkok profiled Manit last year.

His message to tourists prepares them for the worst.

“If you can overcome challenges in Thailand, I guarantee you, then you can live anywhere,” he wrote.

His message ends on a tongue-in-cheek note:

“Oh, I almost forgot that in Thailand, cannabis is legal. I want to say a big welcome to Thailand. I promise you will have a fun ride.”