Pattaya tourism boom leads to a traffic nightmare

As tourism in Pattaya continues to recover at an incredible pace, the city is faced with a downside – heavy traffic. Two significant bottlenecks were observed this month: one on Thepprasit Road, close to the Kaan and Colosseum theatres, and another on Second Road close to the South Road intersection. Additionally, areas such as Soi Regional Land in south Pattaya experience enormous traffic queues, especially during afternoons and early evenings. Major sois connecting the so-called Dark Side with Pattaya City also face the same issues.

City Hall has placed the blame on road repair companies for not honouring contract dates, and these firms, in return, criticise electricity and water companies due to lack of cooperation. The resurgence of large coaches and the growth of U-Tapao Airport are contributing factors, while Beach Road continues to be dug up with no completion in sight. According to meteorologists, the daily smog is due to crop waste burning both nationally and internationally, though emissions from the traffic certainly raise health concerns.

Despite plans to increase international tourist numbers in Thailand to 80 million by the end of the decade – with projections for 2023 being around 20-25 million – it seems no authorities are worried about the environmental consequences. With a General Election on the horizon, no party appears to be addressing these issues. Unfortunately, the more congested and polluted the city becomes, the less likely international visitors will want to return.

In other news, a reader wonders why Pattaya’s superstores have resumed the distribution of plastic bags, questioning if the environmental crisis has ended. Meanwhile, British visit (tourist) visa applications currently process in approximately three weeks. There have been notable improvements at the Jomtien immigration bureau since the arrival of a new colonel, including more seating, increased staff, and better queue management. Sadly, the Pig and Whistle in Jomtien closed at the onset of the pandemic, and the Soi 7 branch in Pattaya is now confirmed as permanently shut.

Additionally, some bar owners blame the availability of cannabis for decreasing their profits, as stoned patrons tend to drink less. Airfares from Europe to Thailand have risen significantly – cattle class by around 40% and business class by 100%, costing around £4,500 (192,000 baht) for a return ticket. Also, Thailand is contemplating the decriminalisation of some sex toys to reduce sex crimes, but blow-up dolls requiring considerable effort are excluded from the list.

As the city continues to adapt and grow, with new experiences and challenges presenting themselves, residents and visitors can only hope authorities address pressing issues and strive to maintain the vibrant atmosphere Pattaya is known for.