Udon Thani:The Ministry of Agriculture is urgently addressing shortcomings at the World Horticultural Expo, indicating improvements are expected within one week. Minister Watcharaphol has ordered urgent action to resolve issues affecting tourist services at the Udon Thani International Horticultural Exposition, following feedback regarding parking, shuttle services, restrooms, and food and beverage services.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Watcharaphol Khaokham, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, revealed that feedback from the public and tourists highlighted various service issues after the exposition's opening. Consequently, relevant agencies were instructed to address nine key problems, following the policy of Mr. Suriya Jungrungruangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives.
Regarding parking issues, the parking area in front of the ticket counter has been opened for public use. Coordination with Udon Thani Province and the Provincial Transport Office aims to provide additional shuttle buses, with further assistance from Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo. Additionally, waiting tents, chairs, and bus schedule signs are being added to accommodate tourists better.
Plans include upgrading the shuttle system to connect parking areas with the event venue and establishing routes connecting communities and tourist attractions to benefit local businesses. On-site facilities will see increased signage, more mobile restrooms, additional trash disposal points, and solar-powered lighting.
Food and beverage services will be expanded with more vendors and vending machines, along with additional drinking water stations and souvenir shops. The online ticketing system will also be streamlined to eliminate redundant registration processes, following discussions with Udon Thani Rajabhat University.
Mr. Watcharaphol stated that addressing these issues will involve collaboration between the event contractor, the Department of Agriculture, and Udon Thani Province. All feedback will be considered to enhance convenience for the public and tourists, with noticeable changes expected within one week.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives plans to develop the area post-event into a hub for international exhibitions and a permanent public park and eco-tourism destination in the Greater Mekong Subregion. The Ministry will support Udon Thani province in maintaining the area for continued use after the event.