Thailand: Disruptions planned in Bangkok for coronation ceremonies May 2-6 /update 1

Event

Maha Vajiralongkorn, better known as King Rama X, will hold his coronation ceremonies in Bangkok from Saturday, May 4, to Monday, May 6. The official coronation ceremony will be held on Saturday with a procession scheduled on Sunday, May 5. The new king will meet public figures and foreign dignitaries on Monday. Heightened security measures are likely in Bangkok, particularly near Rattanakosin Island and the Paruskavan Palace.

Officials will close roads near Rattanakosin Island and the Paruskavan Palace from Thursday, May 2, May 6. Closures beginning on Thursday include Sanam Chai, Maharat, Chatuphon, and Ratchadamnoen Nok roads. From 05:00 (local time) on Friday, May 3, until 23:59 on Saturday, Rachini, Sanam Chai, Na Phra That, and Maharat roads will be closed, among others. Beginning at 00:00 on Sunday, most roads on Rattanakosin Island will be closed for the royal parade, including Khao San, Ratchadamnoen Nok, Phra Sumen, Maha Chai, and Nakhon Sawan. On Monday, road closures and partial closures will be in effect for most of Rattanakosin Island from Somdet Phra Pin Klao Bridge south to Phra Pokklao Bridge. Increased congestion is expected in nearby areas until Tuesday, May 7.

Context

This will be the first coronation ceremony held in Thailand since 1950. King Bhumibol, the father of Rama X, reigned from 1950 until his death in 2016 and was well regarded in Thailand.

Advice

Individuals in Bangkok are advised to adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate crowded conditions, associated transportation disruptions, and a heightened security presence during the coronation period and ceremonies, and refrain from discussing politics, particularly regarding the royal family, in public or on social media.