An aerobics group accused of causing noise pollution and upsetting nearby neighbors at Santiphap Park close to Victory Monument is seeking help from the Bangkok governor, after its 20-year-old exercise ritual was banned.
On Monday, City Hall issued a letter ordering the group to move its activity to another park in the same district.
That order came after a doctor, a resident of an adjacent condominium, lodged a formal complaint about the loud noise from the music.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) admitted someone complained about the blaring noise coming from the the speaker which the aerobic group used from 6-7pm, although they would not reveal the name of the complainant.
After the news went viral and led to widespread criticism of the BMA's reaction, deputy Bangkok governor Thaweesak Lertprapan on Tuesday ordered Ratchathewi district office to allow the aerobic class to resume.
However, group members have not yet seen the written order and so are still worried about the future of their evening workout, said Natthaya Chapsonthip who led 15 group representatives in submitting a petition letter to City Hall yesterday.
They want written assurance from Bangkok governor Aswin Kwanmuang that they can continue their daily one-hour aerobics class, and enlisted his help in dealing with the complaint that is putting them at odds with Ratchathewi officials and people living near the park.
People in the neighbourhood -- most of them newcomers who just moved into a newly built condominium -- view the group as "troublemakers", although aerobic organisers never meant to make any disturbance, Ms Natthaya said. She insisted her group is aware of noise levels and has been trying to solve the problem.
The group said it is helping City Hall carry out its policy to promote healthy lifestyles by hosting its aerobics classes, which draw 300 people on average. If banned at Santiphap Park, more than 800 group members would have to continue their aerobics at Ratchathewi Phirom Park which was described by Ms Natthaya as "inconvenient and looks like wilderness".
