A network of closed-circuit television cameras and radio-dispatch centers are helping police keep Pattaya safer.
The Pattaya Disaster Relief and Mitigation Department opened its command center last year, allowing staff to monitor cameras centered around eight areas: Lan Po Public Park, the Nong Yai neighborhood, Wuthichot School, Soi Sukhumvit 34, the Pattaya city borders, Bali Hai Pier, the Lan Po Market and Pattaya School No. 8.
The Disaster Relief Center is staffed with officers 24 hours a day, ready to help.
According to the department, the busiest areas are at Walking Street Soi 14 and either end of Soi Buakaow. The most dangerous areas, however, are the Thepprasit housing projects, Lan Po Market, New Naklua market and Bali Hai clock tower area.
In the future, the department plans to work with the Srikham Radio Station to improve response times to crimes and accidents.
City hall’s Maj. Gen. Jeerawat Sukhonzup said the CCTV control room focuses on helping people with issues involving everything from crimes to minor transportation problems.
In addition, he said, the Pattaya and Thappraya civil-defense volunteer networks are now broadcasting news to help residents learn of problems or the progress in resolving issues.
Department staffer Thanadda Sukhsaket said she joined the control room team to help Pattaya reduce crimes and accidents.
“Even though I have worked for only a couple of months, I feel happy to be helping people,” she said, recalling how a camera helped her locate a man who called for help after he ran out of gas.
The Disaster Relief Center can be contacted around the clock through the city call center at 1337 or directly at 038-042-866-7 ext. 17.
