PATTAYA, Thailand – Footpaths in Pattaya, meant for pedestrians, have increasingly become dominated by motorcycles and even larger vehicles, sparking frustration among local residents and pedestrians alike. The city’s municipal officers have begun enforcement operations, targeting motorcycles parked on sidewalks, issuing fines, and conducting public awareness campaigns emphasizing that riding or parking on footpaths is strictly prohibited.
Authorities have also called for special attention to red-and-white parking zones near popular areas like Beach Road and Naklua sois 16 and 18, as vehicles frequently block these spaces. Residents report that motorcycles drive on sidewalks daily, particularly along South Pattaya and Sukhumvit Road, creating dangerous conditions for pedestrians, especially those using wheelchairs or pushing strollers. One local observer sarcastically remarked that sidewalks are meant for pedestrians, but with footpaths blocked by parked vehicles, groups of Indian tourists are forced onto the roads, highlighting public frustration at the ongoing misuse of sidewalks.
While many residents praised the authorities for taking action, applauding enforcement efforts as “excellent” and “correct,” others pointed out that the problem persists throughout Pattaya beer bars and shopping arcades as well as the Jomtien Immigration Office, where vehicles not only occupy sidewalks but also extend into the streets, creating additional hazards. Commenters criticized vendors placing goods outside their shops, further narrowing pedestrian paths, and stressed that enforcement must go beyond occasional inspections.
Calls for permanent measures are growing louder, with residents urging City Hall to implement stricter monitoring and consistent penalties to ensure sidewalks remain safe and accessible for everyone. The message is clear: Pattaya’s footpaths are for people, not vehicles, and temporary enforcement alone will not solve the problem. City authorities are being challenged to act decisively and remove this bad habit for good, for the safety and convenience of all citizens and visitors.
