PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya officials are continuing their campaign against business owners and residents who place cones, chairs and other objects on public roads and footpaths to reserve parking spaces or block access for their own benefit.
The latest enforcement effort is part of the city’s ongoing push to improve cleanliness, order and public access, under the slogan “Respect each other’s rights and help build a better society.”
City authorities say public roads and sidewalks belong to everyone and should not be occupied for private use without permission.
The move has been widely welcomed by residents, many of whom say the problem has spread across several areas of Pattaya, particularly in busy neighborhoods and market zones.
Residents pointed to areas such as Thepprasit Road, Lan Pho Naklua Market and areas near Big C South Pattaya as locations where cones, chains, chairs and locked barriers are frequently used to block public space.
Some residents called for stricter penalties, suggesting businesses should be fined if blocked spaces are found directly in front of their shops, even if owners deny responsibility.
Others also urged the city to improve the condition of footpaths while carrying out the crackdown, saying pedestrians are often forced onto roads because sidewalks are obstructed by private objects.
The campaign is expected to continue across Pattaya as authorities attempt to reclaim public space and reduce conflicts between residents, businesses and motorists.
