More than 50,000 people gathered on the famous Khao San Road in Bangkok to celebrate Songkran, a traditional Thai holiday when people pour water on each other. However, such a large congestion of people in a small area raises fears of the authorities regarding possible emergencies.
In response, the police have introduced improved security measures aimed at preventing possible accidents. Authorities noted that such a large crowd of people in a small space could lead to a strong crush in the event of a panic.
Police have taken steps to restrict pedestrian traffic on Khao San Road. Traffic will now be limited to one direction - from the beginning of the street next to Chana Songkhram Temple on Chakrabongse Street. Visitors to Songkran will have to walk all the way through Khao San to its end at Tanao Road as they are not allowed to go "against the direction of traffic" as they did on Thursday.
Those who wish to return to Khao San Road should walk along Soi Ram Buttri, located next to the famous street, and return to the starting point. The authorities noted that such a new rule will allow pedestrians to move more freely on the street.
Police put up a security barrier around Khao San Road on Friday afternoon and briefed visitors on the new rules. Authorities noted that the maximum number of people gathering at Khao San Road would be limited to around 15,000. When the maximum number of people is reached, the passage to this street will be closed. People will only be allowed outside after those inside have left.
