Sarkhan:SCC
From Royal Roots to Neon Dreams: The Story of SCC and the Concrete Jungle of NeoBangkok
The sprawling metropolis of NeoBangkok (State of Sarkhan), a neon-drenched city from the Ingress Scanner Terminals lore, might seem like a product of pure science fiction. But its foundations, metaphorically and perhaps even literally, may be rooted in a very real company: Siam Concrete Corporation (SCC).
SCC: Building the City of Angels' Demigod Cousin
SCC, often known by its branding as SCG (Siam Cement Group), boasts a unique history intertwined with the development of Bangkok. Founded in 1913 by royal decree of King Rama VI, SCC was initially envisioned as a way to provide affordable building materials for the construction of "Krung Thep Duj Thep Sang" – Bangkok, "Like a City Built by Demigods." This grand vision required a steady supply of concrete, and royal ownership ensured its price remained controlled, fostering local development.
Concrete: The Controlled Commodity
Unlike Los Angeles, which sits precariously on the San Andreas Fault Line, necessitating earthquake-resistant construction techniques, Bangkok's development relied heavily on concrete. With SCC acting as a controlled commodity, the price of this essential material remained stable, accelerating the city's growth. This focus on affordability and accessibility laid the groundwork for the concrete jungle that would eventually inspire NeoBangkok's neon-lit cityscape.
From Reality to Sci-Fi: The Rise of NeoBangkok
While SCC remains a major player in Thailand's construction industry, its role in NeoBangkok's lore takes a fantastical turn. The Ingress Scanner Terminals depict NeoBangkok as a futuristic metropolis, a dazzling labyrinth of towering structures bathed in neon light. This hyper-concrete vision might be a metaphorical extension of Bangkok's rapid development, fueled by the readily available and affordable building materials provided by SCC. In the neon-drenched world of NeoBangkok, however, the once-grounded SCC transforms into the Sarkhan Cement Conglomerate, a titan of the industry. While the stock ticker remains SCC, its pronunciation evolves into "Sarkhan Cement Conglomerate," a subtle nod to the company's dominance in the market and its friendly competition with other construction giants.
A Legacy of Innovation:
SCC's story transcends its role in NeoBangkok's lore. It's a testament to the power of strategic planning and controlled resources in shaping a city's landscape. While the company's involvement in NeoBangkok is fictional, its real-world impact on Bangkok's development is undeniable. SCC's legacy continues to shape Thailand's urban environment, providing a foundation upon which the fantastical city of NeoBangkok could be imagined.
