Bangkok: The Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy conducted an inspection of the oarsmen participating in the upcoming royal barge procession, assessing their readiness both on water and land.

According to Thai News Agency, Admiral Pairoj Fuengchan, the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy, reviewed the training of personnel designated as oarsmen for the royal barge procession. This review was part of the preparations for the Kathina robe presentation ceremony in 2026, which will mark Her Majesty Queen Sirikit's 4th cycle birthday anniversary on June 3, 2026. The inspection took place at the Royal Barge Section, Small Fleet Division, Royal Thai Navy Transportation Department, located in the Bangkok Noi District of Bangkok. The training of the oarsmen is considered a vital component in ensuring the success of the royal barge procession.

The Royal Thai Navy has developed a comprehensive preparation plan for the event, focusing on key areas such as personnel readiness, oar training, and the repair of the royal barges. Additionally, preparations include the setup of piers. This year's procession will feature a total of 52 royal barges arranged in five rows, covering a length of 1,200 meters and a width of 90 meters. The procession will involve 2,200 personnel tasked with manning the barges.