The festivities have kicked off in Chiang Mai’s Old City, with both locals and tourists enthusiastically engaging in water play, amidst the scorching heat and lingering haze of PM2.5 particles. Despite warnings against the use of talcum powder, street vendors continue to sell the item alongside other water play equipment.
Reports indicate that as of noon on April 12, the atmosphere around Chiang Mai’s Old City is bustling with people and tourists enjoying water splashing activities. Many are seen driving around in pickup trucks equipped with water play gear, while others have gathered at various spots, particularly women dressed in colorful and sometimes revealing attire, adding vibrancy to the scene.
Despite the hot weather and the ongoing air pollution issue, the high levels of PM2.5 have not deterred people from joining in the Songkran festivities.
Meanwhile, both inside and outside the Old City, vendors are seen setting up stalls to sell various goods, predominantly water play equipment such as water guns, buckets, and waterproof pouches. Additionally, there are vendors selling ice blocks for cooling off during Songkran, as well as various food items. However, it’s noted that some vendors are selling talcum powder, both in its regular form and mixed with colorful dyes, despite the municipality’s annual request to refrain from using it during Songkran festivities. (TNA)
