PATTAYA, THAILAND – Officials and social workers cleared Pattaya Beach and spoke with homeless people as the city sought to protect its clean image.
Major sweep along the resort beach
Deputy mayor Damrongkiat Pinitschkan personally led the latest operation along the sandy strip in central Pattaya. He was joined by officers from the social development department and law enforcement, who moved section by section along the shoreline.
The aim of the action was clearly defined. Authorities wanted to improve the appearance of the beach while at the same time extending a helping hand to people in need.
Support offered to people sleeping rough
Teams encountered 19 people living in the open along the beach area. Social workers offered each of them counselling and a way out of what officials described as hopelessness.
Seven accepted the offer of support. They were immediately referred to rehabilitation programmes and social care facilities to begin a new phase of their lives.
Drug problem uncovered during checks
Not every case proceeded smoothly or peacefully. Twelve people were required to leave the beach area after they rejected direct assistance.
One man drew particular attention from investigators. Officers determined that he had a severe addiction problem and took him away for further assessment.
Struggle to restore legal identity
Many of the homeless had lost all personal documents. Without an identity card, they had no entitlement in Thailand to state support or medical care.
Officials helped those affected to apply for new papers. With these documents, they would again gain access to the social security system of their home country.
Garbage and makeshift shelters removed
After discussions with the homeless people, city cleaning crews moved in. They cleared away abandoned rubbish, derelict carts and temporary sleeping places from public areas along the beach.
Pattaya aims to shine as a global holiday destination. Cleanliness and order remained top priorities for the city administration, which feared that visible neglect could deter tourists.
Legal limits on tougher action
A key problem for authorities continued to be the legal framework. Many of the homeless were familiar faces who returned to the beach after every previous clearance operation.
Officers were not allowed to detain or expel anyone permanently. Respect for personal rights prevented a harsher crackdown on those who repeatedly came back.