The municipality is not complacent and is swiftly addressing individuals who spray-painted "Reserved" to mark spots for selling goods during the "Songkran" festival along Ku Khlong Mueang Road
On 19 March 2026, reporters noted that as the Songkran festival approaches, disorder is emerging in many areas after some residents inappropriately reserved market spaces in advance, affecting the city’s image and cleanliness.
Along Ku Khlong Mueang Road, opposite Wat Na Phra Meru Ratchikaram, spray paint was used to write messages "Reserved" on the walkway extending over 300 meters.
Additionally, A4 papers with handwritten messages were staked with wires forming fence-like lines to claim rights to sell during this year's Songkran festival. These actions disrupt public order and harm the tourist area's image, making citizens and visitors see it as inappropriate and dirtying the city.
Meanwhile, along the Ayutthaya–Ang Thong route near the King Naresuan the Great Monument in Phukhao Thong subdistrict, another key Songkran event spot, there were no spray paint markings this year as in previous years. Instead, people used colorful stickers along the sidewalks and placed or stuck A4 papers with marker-written messages.
Though the method changed, it still reflects the problem of arbitrary public space reservation, potentially disturbing order and possibly violating government regulations if not properly controlled.
Local residents want relevant authorities to promptly inspect and organize the area before Songkran to maintain cleanliness, order, and the positive image of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya’s tourist sites.
Lieutenant Commander Dr. Somthong Sanpakosolkul, mayor of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Municipality, said the area falls under the municipality’s responsibility, which has continuously managed public spaces to accommodate tourists during important festivals.
After reports of spray paint messages and inappropriate space reservations, the municipality is not idle. It will promptly investigate thoroughly and coordinate with relevant officials to find the offenders and strictly enforce regulations and laws.
Such actions constitute unauthorized use of public space and contribute to urban untidiness, damaging the image of important tourist sites. Offenders will face legal penalties if identified.
The municipality requests citizens and all vendors to strictly follow regulations and avoid actions that negatively affect the community, working together to maintain cleanliness, orderliness, and the city’s good image during the upcoming Songkran festival.