PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya’s bustling tourist areas have long been a favorite destination for both locals and international visitors. However, the city is now grappling with growing traffic issues, particularly on Dongtan and Jomtien Beach roads. These issues not only affect the day-to-day lives of residents but also hinder the experience of tourists and business owners alike.
One of the main problems along Dongtan Beach Road is the increasing number of speeding motorbikes and double-parked cars on walkways. The road, which serves as a key link between Pratamnak Hill and Jomtien, has become a popular shortcut for many drivers. However, this has led to dangerous driving behaviors, including speeding, and the blocking of pedestrian walkways by double-parked vehicles. The growing use of this road as a quick and convenient route is further exacerbating the situation, as drivers fail to respect basic traffic laws.
A local resident, who has lived and worked in Jomtien for many years, expressed concerns over the situation, noting that Dongtan Beach Road seems to be ignored in discussions about Pattaya’s traffic issues. “The City Hall never talks about Dongtan Beach Road,” they remarked. “The speeding motorbikes and double parking on walkways are becoming a real problem.”
In addition to this, the one-way system on Jomtien Beach Road has also sparked frustration among residents and business owners. Many feel that the system is detrimental to the area’s economy and accessibility. “I’ve lived here for years, and I know many expats and business owners. None of them have anything positive to say about the one-way system,” one local business owner shared. “It’s killing businesses between Beach Road and Second Road, making travel very difficult.”
The one-way system, initially introduced to reduce traffic congestion, has had the opposite effect, particularly for those running businesses in the area. On weekdays, parking problems are less severe, but irresponsible drivers who double-park still cause major disruptions by blocking lanes and impeding the flow of traffic. However, on weekends, the situation worsens with an influx of day-trippers who contribute little to the local economy while creating massive congestion and parking issues.
Local residents have voiced their frustration with the lack of enforcement of traffic laws, especially considering the presence of police stations at both ends of Beach Road. “It’s disappointing that the police stations are right there but don’t do anything about it. They could easily generate significant revenue from parking fines, but it seems like no one is taking action,” said one frustrated local.
There is a growing sentiment that the voices of residents, long-term expats, and business owners should be prioritized over the interests of weekend visitors. “The people who live here, whether short-term or long-term, deserve priority,” one local added. “The one-way system is unpopular with nearly everyone who lives or works in the area.”
While Pattaya continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination, it is clear that the city needs to address the growing traffic problems, particularly around Dongtan and Jomtien Beach. By listening to the concerns of local residents and business owners and enforcing stricter traffic regulations, Pattaya can improve the quality of life for those who call the city home while ensuring a better experience for visitors.
