Abandoned Places

Abandoned Bangkok Mall Transformed into Unlikely Fish Habitat

History of the Abandoned Mall

In 1994, the New World shopping mall in Bangkok closed its doors due to safety concerns. The Thai Supreme Court had deemed 7 of the mall’s 11 floors out of compliance with building codes. Following a partial demolition and a fire, the mall was left roofless, allowing rainwater to flood the ground floor and basement.

Mosquito Problem and Local Solution

The stagnant water in the abandoned mall quickly became a breeding ground for mosquitoes, posing a significant threat to the surrounding community. In the early 2000s, locals devised a unique solution to the mosquito problem: they purchased fish of various species to consume the mosquitoes and their larvae.

The fish thrived in the pond created by the flooded mall, and residents regularly visited to feed them. A local coffee shop owner witnessed the growth of the fish population firsthand: “We even bought carp and raised them. At first, there were not many, but the number grew after several years.”

Surge in Popularity and Concerns

Recent photos posted on Facebook brought a surge of interest in the abandoned mall’s fish habitat. Visitors flocked to the site to witness the thriving fish population. However, this popularity also brought a new problem: the theft of larger fish, including carp.

Safety Concerns and City Response

Concerns about the safety of visitors to the fish habitat prompted city officials to close the building off. The administration is currently assessing whether the mall can be made safe for public use.

Ongoing Challenges and Future Solutions

The theft of fish has raised concerns among locals, who are now seeking a solution to protect the remaining fish population. Some have suggested introducing larger predators to deter fish thieves, while others advocate for increased surveillance and security measures.

Impact on the Community

The abandoned mall’s transformation into a fish habitat has had a significant impact on the local community. It has provided a unique and unexpected attraction for visitors, while also addressing a serious health hazard posed by mosquitoes.

The ongoing challenges facing the fish habitat highlight the need for creative and sustainable solutions that can balance the interests of the community, the environment, and the safety of visitors.

Ghost Town Photography: Capturing the Essence of the American West

Exploring the Crystal Mine: Colorado’s Haunted Gem

Nestled amidst the towering peaks of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, the Crystal Mine beckons photographers with its haunting charm. This abandoned ghost town was once a thriving mining hub, but its glory days have faded into history, leaving behind crumbling ruins that whisper tales of the past.

Photographer Berthold Steinhilber embarked on a journey to capture the essence of Crystal Mine through the lens of his camera. Armed with his light painting techniques, he sought to illuminate the town’s forgotten beauty and reveal its hidden secrets.

The Art of Light Painting: Illuminating the Darkness

Light painting, also known as Lichtmalerei, is a unique photographic technique that involves using a single light source to selectively illuminate portions of a scene. Steinhilber wielded this technique like a brush, walking through the darkness and painting with light.

By carefully controlling the movement and intensity of his light, Steinhilber transformed the ruins of Crystal Mine into ethereal landscapes. The Sheep Mountain Tunnel Mill, perched precariously on a crag overlooking the Crystal River, became a symbol of the town’s indomitable spirit.

Bodie: A Well-Preserved Ghost Town in California

Venturing beyond Colorado, Steinhilber turned his lens toward Bodie, California, a ghost town renowned for its remarkably preserved buildings. Unlike many abandoned towns, Bodie’s interiors have remained untouched, offering a glimpse into the lives of its former inhabitants.

Steinhilber spent several nights exploring Bodie’s dilapidated structures, marveling at the details that had survived the passage of time. Playing cards, a roulette table, and even a bottle of whiskey left untouched on a piano hinted at the town’s bustling past.

Haunted Encounters and the Paranormal

Steinhilber’s photographic journey was not without its share of eerie encounters. While photographing a bedroom in a well-preserved house in New Mexico, he was warned of its haunted reputation. Legends spoke of a ghost who would touch visitors, leaving an icy chill on their skin.

Undeterred, Steinhilber set up his equipment and waited patiently. However, the ghost remained elusive, and no trace of its presence could be found on his photographs. Perhaps, he mused, his photographic gear had scared it away.

The Challenges and Joys of Ghost Town Photography

Ghost town photography presents unique challenges. Abandoned buildings are often fragile and unstable, requiring careful navigation. Adverse weather conditions can also hinder progress, as Steinhilber experienced during his visit to Crystal Mine.

Despite the obstacles, Steinhilber embraced the challenges with enthusiasm. He relished the opportunity to capture the essence of these forgotten places, preserving their stories for generations to come.

Tips for Capturing Ghost Towns in Photographs

For aspiring ghost town photographers, Steinhilber offers some valuable advice:

Be patient: Ghost town photography requires patience and perseverance. Wait for the right light and weather conditions, and don’t be afraid to revisit locations multiple times.
Respect the environment: Abandoned buildings are fragile remnants of the past. Treat them with respect and avoid causing any damage.
Learn about the history: Research the ghost towns you plan to visit. Understanding their history will help you appreciate their unique character and tell their stories through your photographs.
Experiment with light: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different lighting techniques. Light painting can add a touch of magic to your ghost town images.
Embrace the unexpected: Ghost town photography is full of surprises. Be prepared for the unexpected and embrace the challenges and opportunities that come your way.

Abandoned Bangkok Mall Finds New Life as Unlikely Fish Habitat