Security beefed up on Khao San Road to protect Songkran revellers
Almost 1,000 policemen, volunteers and city municipality police were deployed to keep order at the Khao San Road Friday, the first of the three Songkran holidays.
Khao San road is popular with both Thais and foreigners for water fights, which take place over the three-day celebrations.
Deputy Bangkok governor Thaya Teepasuwan visited Khao San Road to inspect the preparations for the celebration at 9.30am. She said almost 1,000 policemen, volunteers and Bangkok city police were deployed to prevent violence and the abuse of women by male Songkran revellers.
Phra Nakhon district director Suwaporn Chirmransi said the 200 city police from his district were deployed to help police ensure security at the popular tourist destination.
Suwarporn said the officials would not allow male revellers to sexually harass their female counterparts by smearing wet powder on them.
Suwaporn said officials would immediately warn revellers who appeared to be sexually intimidating women. Those who refused to heed the warning would be fined Bt500.
Women revellers would not be allowed to dress in revealing outfits, he said.
The district director said vendors would not be allowed to sell alcoholic drinks in the Songkran celebration venue of Khao San Rod.
Suwaporn said the revellers would be allowed to splash water until 10pm or a little later.
