The New Year countdown on Khao San Road may be cancelled if the protest on Ratchadamnoen Avenue becomes prolonged and the Internal Security Act (ISA) remains in effect until then, says the Khao San Road Business Association.
Tourists gather on Khao San Road. Business in the backpacker haven has declined since the turmoil began. PATTARAPONG CHATPATTARASILL
Khao San Road, long a Bangkok attraction for foreign backpackers and looky-loos, has seen business dip after the government announced enforcement of the ISA in Bangkok, Nonthaburi province, Samut Prakan's Bang Phli district and Pathum Thani's Lat Lum Kaeo district until Dec 31.
Association president Sanga Ruangwattanakul said if the demonstration continues on Ratchadamnoen until year-end, the countdown may not be staged due to a lack of tourists in the area.
Sanga: Staff lay-offs a possibility
Traffic closures nearby would also severely inconvenience revellers.
Guesthouses and restaurants on and around Khao San Road have already seen their business decline, said Mr Sanga.
He said average occupancy last month was only 50%, down from previous projections of 80%, while sales at many restaurants dropped by 70%.
Tourists from major markets such as China and Japan have disappeared, while European travellers are taking a wait-and-see attitude, said Mr Sanga.
He said forward bookings for December are at 30%, only half the typical rate.
The Khao San Road area is home to 8,000 hotel rooms.
If the protests become prolonged, tourism-related operators will have to adjust their business plans and cut costs such as by reducing staff levels and giving more holiday or annual leave.