Khao San Road in Bangkok will be closed from April 13-15 from noon to 8pm for water splashing events during Songkran, which is expected to generate 30-40 million baht a day.
More people are expected to throng Khao San as Silom Road will not be closed during the first full-scale Songkran party since 2019.
Business operators on Khao San Road and nearby areas have prepared activities to mark the return of celebrations, said the president of the Khao San Business Association.
Authorities have allowed shophouses to turn on music and set aside areas for water splashing, but there will be no stages on the road itself, he said.
Authorities will be on hand to ensure safety for partygoers and regulate traffic in the area. They will also be checking people for weapons and any attempts to smuggle in alcohol. Also on the banned list this year: nudity, revealing clothing, powder smearing and high-pressure water guns.
About 30,000 to 40,000 Thai and foreign tourists are expected on Khao San Road each day during Songkran with average spending of 1,000 baht each, or 30-40 million baht, said the president.
Hotel room bookings on Khao San Road and nearby areas are already at 70% occupancy, he added.
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said on Monday that Silom Road would not be closed for Songkran but people would be free to splash water and indulge in other fun-filled activities as usual.
