Officials in Bangkok are ramping up safety measures ahead of next month’s Songkran holiday, with increased use of AI and security cameras.
City Hall has ordered the installation of extra cameras along Khao San Road, one of the most popular tourism destinations. According to the report, at least 100,000 revellers took part in Songkran activities in that area in the past.
In total, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration plans to install an additional 17,000 cameras (really?!) along major thoroughfares in the capital, with the new cameras connected to existing ones for “greater efficiency”.
Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipunt has also tasked the BMA with dispersing visitors to other venues across the capital, to avoid potentially dangerous overcrowding in the traditional tourist hot spots.
Adit Ngamjitsuksri, an adviser to the governor, says the BMA is also “looking to AI” to increase the safety precautions taken by police in the capital. No further explanation was provided about how AI could be used in this context.
He said that CCTV footage from cameras installed along Ratchaprasong Road will be regularly reviewed. The route is popular with tourists and officials want to ensure taxis and other public transport vehicles don’t take advantage of Songkran visitors.
This year’s Maha Songkran World Water Festival has been organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, with Anntonia Porsild, first runner-up in Miss Universe 2023, chosen for the role of Mahothon Devi, the Songkran goddess.
Officials have also produced an English version of the festival’s anthem, Roeng Songkran, which will be performed by the hugely popular Suntaraporn Band.
SOURCE: Bangkok Post
