Na Jomtien-
Readers and local residents have recently noticed that several new illuminated nighttime sitting areas on Jomtien Beach on the newly expanded beach near several popular seafood restaurants and Na Jomtien have appeared, bringing questions if they are considered “encroaching” on the new beach.
The areas, which include a variety of camping style chairs and beanbags along with tables and illuminated areas, candles, music, and more have attracted many customers and made this part of the beach more lively, but, have brought concerns about potentially violating laws about encroachment.
Mr. Anek Chartchua, a municipality official from Na Jomtien Municipality, inspected the area after videos went viral on TikTok, drawing many customers to the area to enjoy the beach at night while eating and drinking food and beverages from nearby restaurants.
The idea was the brainchild of Mr. Pairot Kanapitapong, 57, who owns seafood restaurants near the beach area. He told Anek and local media he knew the idea was probably against the law but had to think out of the box to attract customers after Covid-19 restrictions had nearly flattened his business over the past two years. He said the area they were using on the beach was well-maintained and they kept it clean.
Anek, for now, has agreed and has not ordered them to stop, noting that the city would need to check with City Hall and local courts, but it was possible an agreement, like with umbrella operators and food cart vendors, could be made in return for keeping the beach clean and avoiding any problems. Anek stated, however, the concern was if too many restaurants and vendors began to copy the idea cluttering the beach, noting that Pairot’s restaurant was one of a few who now had “beach seating areas” and that rules would need to be drafted and put together with local restaurants and business owners.
Pairot noted, however, that if City Hall or the courts said he had to pull the idea he would, but, hoped agreements could be worked out.
Photos: 77kaoded
