Bangkok: The Marine Department is gearing up to ensure water safety for the annual Loi Krathong festival in 2025, in collaboration with public and private sectors. The preparation efforts aim to facilitate the safe participation of locals and tourists in this widely celebrated tradition along the Chao Phraya River. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Kritphet Chaichuai, the Director General of the Marine Department, has directed Mr. Pitak Wattanapongpisan, Director of the Water Safety and Environment Office, to lead a meeting on operational preparations for the festival. The gathering, which included Marine Department officials, government agencies, private sector representatives, water operators, and hotel operators, took place at the Wisut Sakhondit Conference Room. This year's Loy Krathong festival is set for Wednesday, November 5, 2025. The festival traditionally attracts many participants who engage in the ritual of floating krathongs on the river. Key piers like Saphan Phut, Rama VIII Bridge, Asiatique , and ICONSIAM are expected to host a significant number of visitors. The Marine Department has developed a comprehensive safety plan which includes recent announcements to regulate navigation and advise caution for vessels during the festival. These include Announcement No. 1046/2025 regarding navigation control, Announcement No. 1047/2025 on safety measures, and Announcement No. 1048/2025 on navigation warnings. Additional orders have been issued to ensure the inspection of passenger boat safety and strict adherence to the safety plan. On the day of the festival, the Marine Department will ceremonially deploy officers and patrol boats to oversee safety at major piers along the river. This initiative is part of a broader effort to collaborate with various sectors to maintain water safety. A significant deployment of personnel and patrol boats will be in place, with 164 security personnel and eight patrol boats already assigned to the Chao Phraya River, complemented by regional personnel totaling 645 securit y staff and 64 patrol boats. In light of recent announcements from the Bureau of the Royal Household and the Office of the Prime Minister regarding the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother, the festival's activities will be adjusted to honor her memory. Fireworks and loud festivities will be omitted, and participants are encouraged to wear life jackets and follow safety instructions. The public is advised to report any unsafe incidents to the Marine Department's 24-hour hotline at 1199.
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