PATTAYA, Thailand – Chonburi Governor Naris Niramaiwong has ordered an immediate fire safety inspection of entertainment venues across Pattaya following the deadly Bangkok beer hall fire that killed 28 people and injured 74 others. Deputy Governor Isara Charoenchasri led a joint operation on July 13 with Banglamung district officials, Pattaya City engineers, Pattaya police and fire officers to inspect bars, clubs and entertainment venues throughout Pattaya and Walking Street. The inspections were prompted by the July 12 fire at a beer hall near Lat Phrao Soi 1 in Bangkok, where rapidly spreading flames, toxic smoke and limited escape routes contributed to one of Thailand’s deadliest entertainment venue fires.
Officials examined fire alarm systems, electrical installations, emergency lighting, fire extinguishers, exit signs, emergency escape routes, building permits and occupancy limits. Venues inspected included The Garden 168, Mahanakhon Pattaya, Jerdjarus 90’s Bar & Restaurant, and five Walking Street entertainment venues: JANNAAT Club Pattaya, JALWA Club, BOSS Club, LEELA Club, and KAMAA Club Pattaya.
Inspectors found that while most venues had basic fire protection equipment, many require improvements, including clearer illuminated exit signs, unobstructed emergency exits, additional emergency lighting, properly positioned fire extinguishers and improved evacuation planning. Operators were instructed to train staff in the use of firefighting equipment, maintain functioning fire alarm systems and ensure customer numbers do not exceed legal occupancy limits. Authorities will return within one week to verify that required improvements have been completed. Venues failing to comply could face legal action.
