Chiang Rai tightens boat safety ahead of Songkran

CHIANG RAI, 11 March 2016 (NNT) – Chiang Rai province has begun tightening safety and security measures of its transport boats to prepare for the Songkran holiday.

Chiang Rai Boat Authority Sub Lt. Thammathon Pulperm has joined a meeting with Chiang Rai Mekong Riverine Unit Head of Strategies and Intelligence Naval Commander Nanthapol Naksuwan held to consolidate efforts to ensure the safety of boats during the Songkran period.

Naval Commander Nanthapol pointed out that as the Mekong River connects Thailand, Lao PDR, Myanmar and China and sees a large amount of traffic, its handling must match international standards.

Officials have been dispatched to make sure boats on the waterway are well maintained and adhere to safety standards. The measure is being implemented to prepare boats to accommodate the large amount of tourists expected to use them during Songkran.


-- NNT 2016-03-11

Forget about boat safety. The owners of these boats have been running them for years. What we need is for the police to get out of the office and enforce the traffic laws. Year after year I never see any police controlling the traffic. I don't mean taking money from motorcycle operators at check point. They need to get out and enforce the law.