Bangkok: “Pipat” has directed the Marine Department to conduct stringent inspections of ports nationwide in preparation for Loy Krathong Day on November 5th, ensuring public safety.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, has mandated the Marine Department and its affiliates to assess the readiness of ports, Loy Krathong locations, and waterways. This initiative aims to ensure that both the public and tourists can participate in the Loy Krathong tradition with confidence and safety on November 5th.
Mr. Pipat has instructed the Marine Department to collaborate with both public and private sectors to facilitate and ensure water safety during the 2025 Loy Krathong festival, which falls on Wednesday, November 5. A large turnout of citizens and tourists is expected to partake in the festivities at major piers, including Saphan Phut Pier, Rama VIII Bridge Pier, Asiatique Pier, and ICONSIAM Pier. The Marine Department has put forth a safety plan and issued three announcements to regulate navigation and alert vessels to exercise caution during Loy Krathong night. These include Announcement No. 1046/2025, designating the Chao Phraya River as a restricted navigation area; Announcement No. 1047/2025, detailing safety measures for Loy Krathong; and Announcement No. 1048/2025, cautioning vessel navigation. Additionally, Order No. 1049/2025 establishes a working group to inspect passenger boat safety in Bangkok, while Order No. 1050/2025 enforces safety measures as per the plan.
Simultaneously, Mr. Kritphet Chaichuai, Director-General of the Marine Department, has inspected piers along the Chao Phraya River to evaluate the readiness of passenger piers and waterway traffic. The Marine Department has announced the temporary closure of seven pontoons, including Spicy Pier, Wat Awut Pier, and Sathorn Pier, to name a few.
Mr. Pipat further stated that on November 5, 2025, at 4:00 PM, the Ministry of Transport, through the Marine Department, will host a Loy Krathong safety parade ceremony. This event will feature participation from agencies such as the Royal Thai Navy and the Marine Police. The ceremony underscores the collaboration between government and private sectors in maintaining water safety at various piers, ensuring the convenience and safety of the public and tourists on the Chao Phraya River. He stressed the importance of coordination among central and regional Marine Departments, government agencies, the private sector, and civil society networks to provide comprehensive assistance. The public and tourists are urged to wear life jackets while traveling by water and to adhere to official instructions. Any unsafe water situations should be reported to the Marine Department’s 24-hour hotline at 1199.