Bangkok is turning old buildings into temporary accommodation for new graduates looking to start their life in the city.

College graduates are having a hard time finding affordable accommodation in the capital amid the rising cost of living and recovering economy. One solution that will help these first jobbers stand on their feet faster is providing low-price temporary lodgings in the city’s heart.

Realising the urgency of the problem, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has launched the “Housing Incubator” project as part of governor Chadchart Sittipunt’s “good urban structure” policy.

The project aims to turn old buildings in central business districts that have no commercial use or are still waiting for development into temporary accommodation for new graduates. Candidates aged 18-25 years will be offered affordable rent to help them save on the cost of living in the city.

BMA said the “Housing Incubator” project has multiple benefits:

– It will help new graduates save on rent and travel expenses, granting them more free time for second and third jobs, or a chance to gain new vocational skills.

– Building owners will also enjoy free renovations under city standards that increase the value and usage of their properties. Having tenants will also help attract more potential customers in the future.

– New graduates will be allocated buildings closest to their workplace, which will help reduce crowdedness in the city centre, cut air pollution caused by commuting, promote balanced urbanisation, and eliminate abandoned buildings that could become hotbeds of crime.

The “Housing Incubator” essentially helps improve the city’s infrastructure to suit the current economy and lifestyle of modern people, BMA said. City Hall said its benefits can be further enhanced with campaigns to build a comprehensive public transport network and expand green spaces in the city to make Bangkok a truly liveable city for all.