Pattaya boosts Songkran safety with drones and freebies

Tourists heading to Koh Larn for Songkran got more than just a splash this year, they were greeted by high-tech patrols, free gifts, and a full force of security personnel as Pattaya rolled out a slick operation to keep visitors safe and smiling.
The action unfolded at the Multi-Purpose Hall on Laem Bali Hai Pier, South Pattaya, where senior officials led by Police General Saksira Phuakam, Commander of the Tourist Police, launched a major Songkran safety operation.
He was joined by Police Lieutenant Colonel Torlap Tinamat, Inspector of the Tourist Police Division 4, as well as teams from the Pattaya Police, Chon Buri Immigration, Pattaya City Municipality, and the Marine Department.
With thousands of locals and tourists flooding the area to catch ferries to Koh Larn, the mission was clear: boost safety and smooth out the chaos.
Officers conducted detailed checks at the pier, keeping a close eye on ferry operations and assisting visitors heading to the island. To add a festive touch, they also handed out water-resistant envelopes to tourists, a thoughtful gesture to protect phones and valuables during Songkran’s infamous water fights.
“The aim is to make sure everyone enjoys the festival safely and conveniently,” said Pol. Gen. Saksira.
Officers also promoted the TPB mobile application, designed to help tourists connect directly with the Tourist Police.
“It’s available in eight languages and offers 24/7 support,” officials said, encouraging visitors to download the app in case of emergencies or assistance.
In a show of appreciation, Pol. Gen. Saksira personally awarded certificates to those who had provided helpful tips and reports to the police, playing a part in boosting overall safety during the celebrations.
But the highlight of the operation was the unveiling of an “intelligent aerial patrol system,” a futuristic surveillance tool that uses autonomous aerial drones to monitor crowd safety from above.
Officials demonstrated the system’s capabilities, showing how real-time aerial views could support law enforcement in managing public spaces more efficiently, reported Pattaya Mail.
The initiative reflects Pattaya’s growing focus on tech-driven tourism safety, proving that in 2025, Songkran isn’t just about water fights, it’s also about smart policing, digital tools, and keeping the fun flowing safely for everyone.