Bangkok: “Pipat” has instructed the Marine Department and affiliated agencies across the country to conduct thorough inspections of ports, Loi Krathong sites, and waterways in preparation for Loi Krathong Day on November 5th. This move is aimed at ensuring the safety and convenience of both the public and tourists as they participate in the traditional festivities.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, has directed the Marine Department to collaborate with both public and private sectors to enhance water safety during the Loy Krathong festival in 2025. As the festival will occur on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, a significant influx of citizens and tourists is anticipated at major piers like Saphan Phut Pier, Rama VIII Bridge Pier, Asiatique Pier, and ICONSIAM Pier. In response, the Marine Department has rolled out a comprehensive safety plan, including three key announcements to regulate navigation and advise vessels to remain cautious on Loy Krathong night. Notably, Announcement No. 1046/2025 designates the Chao Phraya River as a restricted navigation zone during the festival, while Announcement No. 1047/2025 outlines specific safety measures. Furthermore, Announcement No. 1048/2025 serves as a cautionary notice for the festival period. Additionally, Order No. 1049/2025 has been enacted to establish
a working group to assess the safety conditions of all passenger boats in Bangkok, complemented by Order No. 1050/2025 to ensure stringent adherence to safety measures.
Simultaneously, Mr. Kritphet Chaichuai, Director-General of the Marine Department, has been actively inspecting Chao Phraya River piers to evaluate the readiness of passenger piers and manage waterway traffic. The department has announced the temporary closure of seven pontoons, including Spicy Pier, Wat Awut Pier, and Sathorn Pier, among others.
Mr. Pipat further mentioned that on November 5, 2025, at 4:00 PM, the Ministry of Transport, through the Marine Department, will organize a Loy Krathong safety parade ceremony. This event will see participation from various agencies, including the Royal Thai Navy and the Marine Police, as well as the Ruamkatanyu and Poh Teck Tung Foundations. The ceremony underscores a collaborative effort between government bodies and the private sector to ensure water safety at multiple piers, thereby safeguarding the well-being of the public and tourists on the Chao Phraya River. Mr. Pipat highlighted the importance of integrated operations between central and regional Marine Departments, government agencies, private sector entities, boat and hotel operators, volunteer foundations, and civil society networks to fully support the public and tourists. He also urged individuals traveling by water to wear life jackets and adhere strictly to official guidelines. For any observed unsafe water situations, the public is encouraged
to report to the Marine Department via their 24-hour hotline at 1199.