Motorbike mayhem: Pattaya’s underpass crackdown sparks debate

In a recent traffic enforcement blitz, the Pattaya City Peacekeeping Division, alongside the Pattaya City Police Traffic Division, brought the contentious issue of motorbikes using the underpass into the limelight. The crackdown, resulting in numerous prosecutions, has ignited a fiery debate among residents.

Many locals have thrown their weight behind the operation.

“Good deeds should be appreciated. This should be done consistently and should have been implemented long ago. It should be enforced daily with heavy fines.”

Another commuter highlighted the dangers posed by motorcycles in the underpass.

“We see motorcycles in the underpass daily, which is very dangerous. There are only two lanes for large vehicles. Clear signs prohibiting motorcycles should be installed, but some people are aware of the prohibition and still violate it.”

However, not everyone is on board with the new measures, reported Pattaya Mail.

A disgruntled citizen questioned the fairness of the restrictions.

“Can’t we share the road? The 1-kilometre Pattaya Central Underpass is meant to relieve straight-through traffic. However, it makes motorcycles take a risk with vehicles coming from Soi Nern Plub Wan, which is very crowded, not to mention those returning from the motorway. Motorcycles are treated unfairly. They are subjected to laws that are 45 years old.”

In related news, Mayor Poramet Ngampichet of Pattaya delivered an update on the ongoing and upcoming infrastructure projects aimed at improving the city’s drainage systems. These initiatives, funded by the previous budget allocation, represent a concerted effort to enhance the city’s infrastructure and overall livability.

Highlighting key accomplishments, Mayor Poramet announced the successful completion of drainage installation on Thepprasit Road. Work on Pattaya Second Road and Sukhumvit Road is also nearing completion, signalling significant progress in the city’s drainage improvement efforts.

In other news, in a fiery city council meeting, Pattaya City Councillor Jidapha Suwathaphon spotlighted a troubling oversight: the Dolphin Roundabout fountain on North Pattaya Road remains an unsightly eyesore.