Bangkok: Mr. Chatchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform the Songkran Festival into a world-class event by 2026. The initiative aims to boost infrastructure, manage the area efficiently, and uphold environmental standards to enhance the festival's global appeal.

According to Thai News Agency, the Songkran festival already attracts a significant number of international tourists, especially to areas like Silom Road, where nearly 700,000 people participate annually. The festival's smooth and safe execution underscores Bangkok's potential as a top international destination. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) plans to further develop infrastructure, including renovating sidewalks and building skywalks to connect key locations such as Silom Road and Lumphini Park, thus improving convenience and safety for visitors.

The BMA is also focusing on enhancing waste management, drainage systems, and installing CCTV cameras to elevate the festival's standards. An innovative environmental initiative involves recycling plastic water guns into naphtha, which is then used to create food-grade plastic pellets. Currently, nine collection points are operational throughout Bangkok, with plans to collect over 1,000 pieces.

The success of the Songkran festival is attributed not only to government efforts but also to the collaboration of various sectors that contribute to the event's unique atmosphere. Bangkok is preparing a long-term roadmap to develop the festival into a major tourist destination, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and sustainable experience for all participants.

Governor Sittipunt emphasized that Songkran is more than just a festival; it is a "People Festival" that involves everyone and plays a significant role in driving the economy, benefiting small vendors, transport operators, hotels, and various service providers.