BANGKOK – The committee overseeing the royal barge procession says preparations for accommodating spectators along the route on the Chao Phraya River are complete. The procession is part of nationwide celebrations of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua’s coronation earlier this year.
The Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, Pol. Maj. Gen. Jirasan Kaewsaeng-ek, said a meeting of the committee overseeing the event on December 12 reports that all units are prepared to perform their duties and take care of the spectators, using the experience gained from previous royal processions. Every effort has been made to ensure the convenience and safety of the public. There will be 19 security checkpoints in six zones. People arriving to watch the royal barge procession are advised to carry their identification cards with them. They should also avoid bringing valuables, as the event is expected to attract a large crowd. Stringent security screening will be conducted to check for weapons and other prohibited items.
Rama VIII Bridge and Phra Pinklao Bridge will be closed to traffic from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. The bridges will reopen to traffic after the procession reaches Ratchaworadit Pier. Eight routes around the Grand Palace will also be closed to traffic for the rab yai foot procession. For more information, please call the 1197 hotline.
The Director of the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA), Surachai Eamvachirasakul, said his agency has prepared 221 shuttle buses on 19 routes to serve commuters this Thursday. The buses will be located near Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS) and Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT) stations as well as Hua Lamphong Railway Station. The shuttle bus service will start at 9 a.m. and continue until the royal event is over. Those who wish to watch the procession are advised to avoid using personal vehicles.
