Route Map Analysis for Fire Evacuation Planning of the Slum Community in Bangkok

Abstract

Fire is a major problem that causes loss of life and property. Fire incidents eventually occur with the old community neighborhoods that have landmarks within. Small communities and slums in the inner area of Bangkok, Thailand, are risk because, in many cases, they are also historical art and cultural sites. In some cases, important government agencies that driving the development of Bangkok were also built in such area. However, most Bangkok slums still lack measure or guideline for managing the accessibility and fire safety. To prevent fire damage as well as redundant accidents that may occur from fires, we need a specific study. This research has three objectives including 1) to find the potential traffic and access into Devarajkunchorn Temple Community, the case study area 2) to find the relationship between ‘space syntax model’ and the levels of space usage in the area and 3) to create fire-evacuation route map so that future victims can leave the area safely. The research findings are useful for security planning agencies, fire mitigation agencies, local people as well as the public. It would help reduce loss of life and property of people in slum communities with similar characters and, therefore, increase public safety. This research concludes that the Space syntax models highlighted the streets that are suitable for evacuating fire victims particularly by small vehicles. Finally, recommendations for physical and environmental adaptations are proposed