Motorcycle taxis causes traffic gridlock during Pattaya concert

A major hip-hop concert at Legend Siam created severe traffic chaos in Pattaya at the weekend, as hundreds of motorcycle taxis caused gridlock by parking illegally in the streets.

The venue, located roughly 20 kilometres from central Pattaya, drew large crowds that overwhelmed the city’s already tourist-heavy traffic system on Saturday, November 23.

The situation deteriorated when motorcycle taxi drivers parked their vehicles in traffic lanes, significantly reducing road capacity and creating kilometres-long traffic jams. Multiple lanes were rendered unusable, leaving minimal space for regular traffic flow.

Residents expressed their discontent with both the lack of organised parking arrangements and proper registration systems for the event. The problems were compounded by the existing heavy tourist traffic in the area.

Many questioned whether concert organisers had obtained the necessary permits and implemented adequate traffic management plans.

Of particular concern was the behaviour of local motorcycle taxi drivers, who were reported to be blocking not only roads but also access to residential properties. With the concert scheduled to continue for another evening, residents braced for a second night of traffic disruption.

The incident sparked calls for enhanced regulations, with residents demanding better event management practices. Proposed solutions include implementing a formal registration system for motorcycle taxi drivers and ensuring they hold proper public licenses.

There is also a push to prioritise local drivers to better serve community needs, reported Pattaya Mail.

In similar news, Patong’s traffic woes continue to frustrate local government agencies as Mayor Chalermsak Maneesri highlights the challenges faced due to private ownership of Soi Saensabai. The notorious Phuket street is known for traffic congestion and safety hazards and has seen several pedestrian injuries, including those involving foreign tourists.

The inability of Patong Municipality to impose any regulations or initiate improvements on this privately owned road remains a primary concern.

Chalermsak explained that the municipality’s attempts to alleviate these issues have been consistently thwarted by the fact that Soi Saensabai is privately owned.