The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has made comprehensive preparations to accommodate the large number of people expected to pay their respects to the body of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother at the Grand Palace on Nov 9.
Thaiwut Khankaew, a deputy city clerk, attended a meeting at the command centre near Sanam Luang on Friday to inspect arrangements for those who will pay tribute before the royal portrait and sign the condolence book.
He said the preparations were mostly complete. Facilities such as waiting areas, restrooms, and food services have been arranged for up to 3,000 people within Sanam Luang and another 2,000 in the waiting area near the Na Phra Lan tunnel. There will be 70 lavatories available for public use.
These also take into account the tourists visiting the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, with designated zones separating the two groups, Mr Thaiwut said.
The area near the Defence Ministry will be reserved for tourists. Should the number of mourners exceed expectations, more tents will be set up along Na Phra That Road in front of Thammasat University.
The BMA said it could comfortably accommodate around 10,000 people, Mr Thaiwut said.
He urged visitors to use public transport when travelling for the utmost convenience. Those arriving by boat will also find it easy to walk to the main command centre from the pier.