What do you think about the planned changes to Patuxay Park?

The government is planning to extend Patuxay Park for use by the ministries of Agriculture and Forestry, Justice, and Public Works and Transport. Vientiane Times asked some local residents for their thoughts on this move.

Ms Chanxay Chansamone, a resident of Xaythany district: I think it’s a good idea because it will change the face of Patuxay Park and give it more status. The monument there is a symbol of Laos and a great attraction for tourists. I think this area should be turned into a public plaza and a green space. I would like to see lots of flowers, trees that provide shade, and benches. We need places in Vientiane that provide greenness and somewhere for people to escape from the bustle of the city. 
 
Ms Shoudchai, a resident of Sikhottabong district: The monument is important and is a landmark attraction. It’s a highlight of Vientiane for both locals and tourists. The park offers a quiet respite amid the city’s increasingly busy streets. I think the authorities should discuss ways in which the site can best benefit the general public and visitors. We should band together to safeguard special places like this, as one by one they are all being dismantled or overshadowed by ugly developments. If more isn’t done to preserve the few remaining places of charm in Vientiane, there will soon be no reminders of the city’s past, or any attractive buildings.

Ms Tee, a resident of Xaythany district: The monument is a special place that should be preserved, because it is a historic site. I think the authorities should plant more trees and shrubs in the park, and enlarge it, to increase the number of green spaces in the city and give people a place to exercise and relax. I think we should do more to preserve and protect the natural environment.
 
Mr Lea, a resident of Sisattanak district: The installation of the fountain has helped make Patuxay the city’s most prominent landmark. It has been a popular gathering place for many years. But then it was taken over by developers, who completely changed the character of the area. Of course, there must be development but, in my opinion, the public should have a say in the matter and all major changes that are planned, and not be ridden over rough shod by commercial interests.
 
Ms Phimany Buaphan, a government official in Vientiane: I think it is good news that the park will be enlarged. I would like to see it become a public garden, which would offer a pleasant place for a morning or evening stroll. I would also like the authorities to create more parking space to reduce parking on roadsides and footpaths, which is a main cause of traffic congestion and as well as a hazard to road users.  

By Lamphone Pasanthong
(Latest Update October 5, 2022)