PATTAYA, Thailand – Authorities in Pattaya have announced strict traffic measures to manage massive crowds expected during the Songkran and Wan Lai celebrations, with key roads set to close and water trucks banned from entering the city.
Pol. Lt. Col. Amorntep Mai-ma, traffic inspector at Pattaya Police Station, said Songkran events will take place from April 17–19, with the highlight being Wan Lai Pattaya on April 19, when large numbers of tourists are expected to flood the city.
During April 17–18, activities will be centered along Pattaya Beach Road, where five concert stages and entertainment zones will be set up. Traffic will remain open during the daytime, but in the evenings, more than 30 traffic police per shift, along with over 800 volunteers, will be deployed across 33 key points covering Pattaya and Jomtien to manage congestion and ensure safety.
On April 19, stricter measures will be enforced. Beach Road will be fully closed from Dolphin Roundabout to Wat Chai Mongkhol intersection—a stretch of more than 3 kilometers—from 12:00 p.m. to midnight. Connecting sois between Beach Road and Second Road (from Soi 1 to Soi 13/4) will also be closed and designated as emergency service lanes.
Residents in these areas are asked to avoid parking along Second Road to allow access for emergency vehicles. The city has arranged parking spaces at shopping malls and public areas across North, Central, and South Pattaya, accommodating around 2,000 vehicles.
Authorities have also banned water trucks and high-pressure water vehicles from entering key areas, including Sukhumvit Road, Beach Road, Pattaya Sai 1, 2, and 3, as well as Thepprasit Road, to reduce traffic congestion.
For those wishing to avoid the celebrations, alternative routes have been recommended, including Highway 331 via Khao Mai Kaew toward Sattahip, and Motorway No. 7 (M7) toward Na Jomtien.
Officials are also urging the public to prioritize safety during the “Seven Dangerous Days” from April 10–16, advising against drunk driving and encouraging motorists to strictly follow traffic laws and watch for pedestrians amid heavy crowds.
Water play is limited to specific hours, ending before 8:00 p.m. from April 13–16, and by midnight from April 17–19, to allow traffic to clear efficiently.
Police warned that strict enforcement will be in place, particularly for drunk driving offenses, which carry both fines and potential jail time. Vendors are also prohibited from selling alcohol to anyone under 18, with inspections to be carried out continuously throughout the festival.
Authorities emphasized that these measures aim to ensure a safe, orderly, and enjoyable Songkran celebration for both residents and visitors.
