Pattaya Cracks Down on Beach Chaos and Homelessness
Pattaya City officials are intensifying efforts to restore order to the city’s beaches and tackle the growing homelessness problem, aiming to improve public safety and maintain the city’s reputation as a top tourist destination.
Stricter Beach Regulations
In a recent high-level meeting at City Hall, chaired by Deputy Mayor Wutthisak Rermkijakarn, authorities discussed the implementation of stricter regulations for beach umbrellas, deck chairs, and sunbathing areas.
Key measures include:
- Designated sunbathing areas to ensure foreign tourists have clear and unobstructed spaces on Pattaya’s beaches.
- Mandatory rest days for beach operators, with the Health Department tasked with improving communication to ensure compliance.
- A coordinated crackdown on unauthorized beach chair and jet ski rentals, set to begin next week.
Addressing Homelessness in Pattaya
Pattaya continues to face challenges with homelessness, as municipal officers and the Social Welfare Office patrol the streets to relocate homeless individuals. However, logistical difficulties, including staff shortages at night, have slowed the process of transferring individuals to the Chon Buri Provincial Homeless Protection Centre.
To resolve these issues, Deputy Mayor Wutthisak has ordered closer collaboration between the Social Welfare Office and the Protection Centre to establish a sustainable approach for managing homelessness, particularly during non-working hours. The goal is to:
- Improve public safety
- Reduce distress for local residents
- Enhance Pattaya’s reputation as a clean and well-organized tourist hub
Crackdown on Drug Hotspots
In a related effort, Pattaya police recently launched a raid on a known drug hotspot in Soi Bongkot after repeated complaints from frustrated residents.
On February 6, under the leadership of Police Colonel Nawin Thirawit, officers inspected the area following reports that homeless drug users were setting fires, endangering nearby homes.
During the operation:
- Several suspected drug users were identified
- Urine tests confirmed drug use
- At least one individual tested positive and was taken into custody for legal action
A Step Toward a Cleaner, Safer Pattaya
With these initiatives, Pattaya City aims to restore order to its beaches, address homelessness, and crack down on illegal activities. By balancing tourism growth with social responsibility, officials hope to maintain Pattaya’s status as a safe and welcoming destination for both locals and international visitors.
