PATTAYA, THAILAND – A temporary one-way system on Jomtien Beach Road continued to cause confusion even as major roadworks were nearly finished, prompting residents and business owners to demand an immediate return to two-way traffic.
Temporary traffic rule outlived construction phase
The one-way regulation on Jomtien Beach Road had been introduced as a temporary measure during extensive construction works. According to local accounts, the city invested heavily in infrastructure in recent months, including beach widening, a 2-metre-diameter drainage pipe to tackle flooding and a completely renewed, broader sidewalk for pedestrian safety.
Residents criticise lack of follow-up
Although the works were described as almost complete, the one-way system remained in force. Residents and business operators complained that the temporary rule had not been lifted in time and accused the authorities of poor organisation.
Poor signage leaves drivers unaware
One key problem was the poor visibility of traffic signs, with important signs reportedly missing or placed where they were easily overlooked. Many road users, both locals and tourists, were said not to realise that a one-way rule was still in effect.
“How are you supposed to follow rules you can’t see?”
said a frustrated resident.
Traffic lights send conflicting signals
Confusion increased because traffic lights at junctions continued to operate correctly in both directions. This gave many drivers the impression that oncoming traffic was permitted, even though the road was officially designated as a one-way street. The contradictory signals led many motorists to drive against the prescribed direction.
“The light is green, so I drive. How am I supposed to know that’s forbidden?”
said one frequent reaction reported from drivers.
Pedestrian risks described as “highly dangerous”
The unclear traffic layout also created what locals viewed as a serious hazard for pedestrians. People were reportedly misjudging where vehicles were coming from.
“People look to the left when the first danger comes from the right,”
said a resident, warning that the daily accident risk was increasing.
Shops report loss of customers
Business owners along Jomtien Beach Road said the ongoing confusion hit the local economy, as potential customers avoided the area or no longer knew how to reach the shops.
“We got through the construction phase, and now this. There finally has to be a clear solution,”
said one shop owner, calling for swift action.
Clear call for return to two-way traffic
According to locals, most residents and business operators wanted one thing: the immediate end of the temporary construction-related rule and a return to normal two-way traffic. They acknowledged that the infrastructure projects, including the new drainage pipe, wider beach and improved sidewalk, were sensible and beneficial, but argued that the lack of proper follow-up undermined these gains.
Pressure on city to restore order
People in the area said the situation would remain chaotic on Jomtien Beach Road as long as the city administration failed to provide clarity. They demanded either the prompt lifting of the one-way system or unmistakable signage and traffic light settings that matched the official traffic rules.