PATTAYA, Thailand – Police in Banglamung have rolled out strict traffic and safety measures for the upcoming “Wan Lai Naklua” festival on April 18, aiming to prevent city-wide congestion and improve safety during one of Pattaya’s busiest water celebrations.
At a planning meeting held at Banglamung Police Station, led by Police Colonel Sarawut Nuchanart, authorities confirmed that water play will be limited to 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with more than 120 officers deployed across key areas.
Traffic police outlined a series of strict controls, including a one-way system on Sawang Fa Road from Sawang Fa intersection to Namchai intersection during event hours. Large vehicles, including water trucks and six-wheel trucks or larger, will be banned from entering the area.
A dedicated service lane for emergency vehicles will also be established along a 300-meter stretch near Pattaya Memorial Hospital, ensuring rapid response access for medical teams.
In a key adjustment from last year, Pattaya–Naklua Road will return to normal two-way traffic up to the vicinity of the police station, reducing confusion for drivers.
Authorities have also introduced a lane separation system on Sukhumvit Road to ease congestion. Non-participating motorists will be directed to use the right lane (near the median), while those engaging in water play must remain in the left lane to reduce accident risks.
Officials said the measures were developed based on lessons from previous years, when severe congestion—particularly on Sukhumvit Road—caused major disruptions.
The preparations come ahead of Pattaya’s main Wan Lai celebration on April 19, which is expected to draw even larger crowds across the city following the Naklua event.
Police warned that anyone violating traffic rules or failing to follow officers’ instructions will face legal action, as authorities aim to ensure a safe and orderly festival for both residents and visitors.
