Bangkok Fishbowl. Photo: Kajornsak Intarapong
One of Bangkok’s unofficial bizarre attractions could be off-limits soon because it’s also totally unsafe.
City officials will inspect the “aquarium” in an abandoned shopping mall near Khao San Road for safety issues as it has attracted visitors to see the exotic, natural fish pond in its basement.
Sitting at the corner of Banglamphu intersection, the four-story “New World” building is now home to thousands of aquatic friends after locals released some fish into its flooded basement around 10 years ago, hoping the fish would eat the mosquito larvae breeding in the water.
The Department of Public Works today will inspect if the building is safe to enter. If not, the use of the building will be officially prohibited.
The officials will also meet with the building owners to suggest they get rid of the popular fish pond as it could be a source of disease.
Previously, the shopping mall owners were found in breach of construction code after they erected seven more floors on top of the approved plan. They were forced to remove the top seven floors in 2004. One person was killed during the partial demolition.
Related:
Bangkok Fishbowl: Exotic species swim free in abandoned mall
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