PATTAYA, Thailand – The controversial one-way system on Jomtien Beach Road has sparked frustration among residents and motorists, who say the arrangement has failed to curb traffic chaos and may even be increasing safety risks.
Installed to manage congestion and improve traffic flow, the one-way system has instead become a magnet for lawlessness, with drivers—both locals and foreigners—routinely defying traffic directions. Many ride motorbikes the wrong way, some posing as vendors while carrying packages, while cars frequently attempt unsafe maneuvers.
“Most of the roadwork is done, open it back up for two-way traffic. They just upgraded the traffic lights, which are already designed for two-way,” one local driver observed. Others argue that the system is little more than a revenue-generating scheme disguised as traffic management.
“Don’t blame foreigners. I watched from Soi 11 for an hour and counted 25 to 30 Asians going against the traffic direction,” said another observer. “Many are residents themselves. Everyone does it, but here it’s ten times worse.”
Critics point to minimal law enforcement as the root cause. Suggestions include doubling fines, providing police incentives for tickets issued, seizing motorbikes until fines are paid, and applying the same rules to both Thais and foreigners. Many argue that strict enforcement—not the road layout—is the only way to make Jomtien Beach Road safer.
Motorbike noise and reckless driving aren’t limited to Jomtien. Nearby Pratumnak Hill Road has reportedly become a racetrack for motorbike revs day and night, with little interference from authorities. “Never enforced. If they do, it’s just for show or a photo opportunity,” one resident said.
The one-way system has also caused confusion and near-misses for pedestrians. “Crossers look left when the first hazard is coming from the right. Pure idiocy,” noted another observer.
Residents overwhelmingly call for a return to two-way traffic. “Open up two-way traffic again. This one-way system is a totally stupid idea,” said one longtime Pattaya resident. Others agree that the system, combined with weak enforcement, is worsening road safety and encouraging a culture of impunity.
Until Pattaya authorities commit to consistent enforcement, many believe the one-way experiment on Jomtien Beach Road will remain a cautionary tale in traffic planning.
