Sanam Luang Opens To Public

Sanam Luang opens to public

By The Nation

Closed since last July for a massive revamp, Sanam Luang is finally opening to the public - but it may never see a political rally again.

Bangkok Governor MR Sukhumbhand Paribatra said yesterday he personally did not wish to see any political groups using these Royal grounds for their activities.

"This is because after the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration [bMA] allowed some groups to use Sanam Luang, they made their supporters camp out there and prolong their protest," the governor said. "They did not follow the rules."

However, Sukhumbhand admitted this was just his personal opinion.

"I won't officially have a say on the matter, because I think it may prompt criticism since I come from a political party as well. So, I have assigned permanent officials to make a decision on the matter instead," he said.

Sukhumbhand said the committee in charge of revamping the Rattanakosin Island will decide on regulations governing the use of Sanam Luang on Friday.

The draft suggests that Sanam Luang should be open to the public from 5am until midnight daily and that more than 60 guards should be put on duty to keep an eye on the vast grounds at night. BMA will rely on its own officials during the day.

Sukhumbhand, speaking to the press after attending a ritual to bless the grounds, added that the BMA was planning to have the Agriculture Ministry oversee the preparation of the grounds for the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, which will take place on May 13.

"This year, His Majesty will celebrate his 84th birthday, and BMA wants to use Sanam Luang only for activities that celebrate the monarch," Sukhumbhand said.

-- The Nation 2011-05-04