BANGKOK, THAILAND – Large parts of central Bangkok were set to be closed to traffic for the CentralWorld Countdown 2026, turning the capital’s main arteries into a pedestrian-only party zone.
Official closure order for key downtown arteries
The Ministry of Transport announced temporary road closures in the Royal Gazette, affecting several of the city’s main thoroughfares. From 31 December 2025 to 1 January 2026, sections of Ratchadamri, Rama I, Phloenchit, Phetchaburi and Ratchaprarop roads were to be closed to general traffic. Only police and emergency vehicles, along with cars holding special traffic police permits, were exempt from the ban.
Staggered shutdowns around Pratunam and Ratchaprasong
The closures were staggered across the core shopping and business district. The stretch between Pratunam and Ratchaprasong was to be closed from 31 December, 12:00 noon, until 1 January, 5:00 a.m., while Chalerm Phao–Ratchaprasong, Ratchaprasong–Chidlom, Makkasan–Pratunam and Chidlom–Pratunam were all to be shut from 31 December, 4:00 p.m., until 1 January, 2:00 a.m. Officials said the measures were intended to move hundreds of thousands of partygoers safely to and from the celebrations.
Mass police deployment and alternative routes
A large contingent of traffic and highway police, supported by other agencies, was scheduled to be on duty from 27 December to 2 January to direct vehicles and maintain safety. Authorities prepared alternative routes, special traffic lanes and selected toll-free sections of the city expressway to ease congestion.
“We expected very heavy traffic, both within Bangkok and on the outbound routes to the provinces,”
said the Royal Thai Police, in an official warning.
Strong appeal to drivers and push for public transport
Officials issued urgent appeals for motorists to check their vehicles before travelling and to plan journeys carefully in advance. Use of public transport – the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway – was strongly recommended to reach the closed-off areas and avoid traffic jams. The BTS stations Chidlom and Siam were designated as the main access points to the party zone, where authorities anticipated huge crowds.
Safety, rescue access and local exemptions
The strict measures were driven by a determination to avoid a catastrophe like those seen in other major cities the previous year, with the safety of revellers declared the top priority. The car-free zone was intended to secure clear rescue routes and space for the crowds, while ensuring the full operational capacity of emergency services in the area. Residents and businesses in the restricted zones were promised special arrangements for local traffic and deliveries, with detailed rules to be announced.
Gigantic party, gigantic logistical test
The CentralWorld Countdown was described as one of the largest free New Year’s Eve events in the world, with the road closures seen as the price of a safe and smooth celebration. Drivers were advised to expect long detours and significant delays, and were urged to leave early, use rail services or stay away from the city centre altogether. Bangkok prepared for a massive New Year party – and an even bigger logistical challenge – as the countdown to potential traffic chaos effectively began.