Marine authorities shut four unsafe river piers to hold Loy Krathong celebration



BANGKOK: -- The Marine Department today ordered the closure of four passenger piers on the Chao Phraya River after finding them unsafe.

The closure came after MD officials reinspected several river piers to make sure they are safe for passengers to board before the upcoming Loy Krathong festival on November 25.

All river piers are expected to be crowded with people on the day when they will show up at piers to launch candle floats.

MD deputy director-general Nat Chabchai said river piers are unusually crowded during the Loy Krathong festival, particular Sathorn pier.

The inspection today was to ensure that all piers will be safe, he said.

But he said four piers were unsafe and were ordered to be closed.

They are Tha Siphaya, Tha Bang Pho, Tha Wat Muangkae, and Tha Wat Chatkaewjongkolnee.

He said these piers were ordered to shut down because they could not improve safety within the period.

He also said more than 200 marine officials, Police and soldiers will be deployed at river piers to ensure safety for celebrants.

Piers where large number of celebrants are expected to show up to launch floats are Tha Sathorn, Asiatique Pier, and Tha Rama 8.

During the celebration time from 4.00 pm until midnight of November 25, cargo ships and big transport vessels are not allowed to sail except small boats, he said.

He said more river patrol boats will also be deployed during the festival to ensure safety for boat travellers.

Source: http://englishnews.thaipbs.or.th/marine-authorities-shut-four-unsafe-river-piers-to-hold-loy-krathong-celebration


-- Thai PBS 2015-11-17

Gee!! Loy Kratong must of snuck up on these officials??

Must of been busy arranging the overtime roster.

Congratulations to the Marine Department!

Carrying out inspections, and then closing the piers, as they could not have been repaired in time, is a responsible action.

Overcrowding (especially on floating pontoons) could easily lead to a tragedy.