PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya’s sidewalks, long touted as part of the city’s push to become a world-class tourist destination, are coming under renewed criticism from residents and visitors alike. Despite plans and promises from local authorities, many sidewalks remain cluttered, unsafe, and largely unusable, raising serious questions about the city’s commitment to pedestrian infrastructure.
Critics point out that enforcement—or the lack thereof—is a central problem. Motorcycles routinely use sidewalks as racetracks, often weaving between pedestrians, while cars occasionally encroach in certain areas. Sidewalks are also blocked by random objects, street vendors, and “creative” business extensions that make walking difficult or impossible. Residents note that while city officials may discuss beautification projects, practical issues such as safety, accessibility, and flood control are often ignored.
Attempts to improve sidewalks using sand and cheap pavers are also questioned. Flooding remains a recurring issue in many areas, washing away sand bases and undermining pavement stability. Experts emphasize that effective drainage—ideally directing rainwater into the sea every 100 meters—is crucial to maintaining sidewalks in a functional and safe condition.
Observers suggest that Pattaya’s city officials could learn from international tourist destinations like Cancun, Florida, or European resorts, where pedestrian safety, accessibility, and enforcement are taken seriously. In contrast, Pattaya’s sidewalks remain a mix of partially completed projects, poorly maintained areas, and legal loopholes that favor motorized traffic over pedestrians.
For many locals and long-term visitors, the question is simple: can Pattaya provide sidewalks that are safe, functional, and flood-resistant, or will law enforcement continue to lag behind, leaving pedestrians at risk every day? With the city aiming to attract more tourists, the condition of its sidewalks could become an increasingly visible and embarrassing mark of neglect.
