Bangkok: Seats for viewing the Royal Barge Procession under the Rama VIII Bridge on the Thonburi side have been completely reserved, as eager spectators flocked to the area. Volunteer officers used loudspeakers to inform latecomers that seating in the front and middle zones was full, but seats remained available in the back rows and on the left and right sides. To accommodate the growing crowd, the Bang Phlat District Office provided additional chairs along the waterfront walkway.
According to Thai News Agency, the atmosphere around the Rama VIII Bridge has been lively since morning, with people donning yellow shirts arriving continuously to reserve spots for the procession. The first arrivals, a group from Nong Bua Lamphu Province, secured their front-row seats as early as 5:00 AM. Eager to witness the royal ceremony firsthand, they prepared for a long day with provisions, including sticky rice and grilled pork, and expressed their intention to remain seated to fully experience the event’s grandeur.
The Di
rector of Bang Phlat District highlighted the location’s appeal as it offers an up-close view of the royal barges, marking the procession’s starting point. To enhance the viewing experience, Bangkok authorities have installed 14 LED screens with sound amplifiers, totaling 18 screens, across six districts: Dusit, Phra Nakhon, Bang Phlat, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok Yai, and Thon Buri. Additionally, accessibility measures include a ramp at the Santi Chai Prakan Park viewing point, providing 40 seats for wheelchair users, contributing to a total of 1,500 available seats.