Bangkok—
On March 5th, 2024, Pol. Gen. Adis Ngamjitsuksri, the Advisor to the Bangkok Governor, publicly revealed the preparedness for the upcoming Songkran Festival in Bangkok by using AI technology to monitor the safety of tourists.
Bangkok Traffic and Transport officials were issued an order to monitor the safety of tourists during the Songkran Festival, especially in tourist-crowded areas such as Khao San Road, with an estimated 100,000 tourists visiting. The Bangkok government would deploy additional AI technology used in CCTV to assist police officers, said Pol. Gen. Adis.
It was reported that 17,000 CCTV cameras with AI technology would be deployed in the Khao San Road area and aid from local CCTV from street vendors and entertainment venues, said Pol. Gen. Adis.
Furthermore, under Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s policy to the Bangkok government, Traffic and Transport officials would gather information on taxis taking advantage of foreign tourists by charging extra in Bangkok areas from CCTV. The AI technology could detect the driver’s identity on the plate license, according to Pol. Gen. Adis.
The relevant agencies would work proactively to build trust and confidence in tourists starting today until the Songkran Festival, according to Pol. Gen. Adis.
In response to the surging number of tourists during the Songkran Festival, Pol. Gen. Adis held a meeting with local police stations and relevant agencies in various areas in Bangkok including Rattanakosin Island, Nana area, Ratchadamri Road, and Central World to intensify the security measures.
Initially, private vehicles were not allowed in festival zones as it would cause disorder and risk of theft, using public transportation was advised, said Pol. Gen. Adis.
