As crowds of mourners begin reserving pavement space in the vicinity of the royal cremation site, His Majesty the King has advised authorities to ensure they are protected from the heat and to give them a warm welcome.
People were sitting on pavements along local roads around Sanam Luang, especially near Rattanakosin Hotel, Khlong Lot canal and Chang Rong Si Bridge. They were waiting for security screening at checkpoints that will open early Wednesday morning, hoping to get a place as close as possible to the royal cremation of the late King Rama IX on Thursday.
Umbrellas and raincoats were out in abundance as it rained heavily early Tuesday morning.
Some people said they had arrived on Monday afternoon with clothing, raincoats, plastic sheeting, food, cough syrup and drinking water. Local householders let them use their shower rooms and toilets. The waiting people said they were determined to see off their beloved king to heaven.
Hotels in the vicinity of the royal crematorium at Sanam Luang are fully booked until the end of this month, especially along Khao San, Phra Sumen, Ratchadamnoen, Phra Arthit and Lan Luang roads.
Army chief Chalermchai Sittisad said on Tuesday that King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun was concerned about people having to endure the sun and the heat from the road surface while waiting for the ceremonies.
His Majesty told the government, the military and concerned organisations to protect them from the heat building up on the road surface.
"We are considering laying rubber mats or mattresses on the ground to reduce the heat," Gen Chalermchai said.
"His Majesty the King is much concerned about the people and also instructed officials to treat them nicely and not to be too strict," the army chief said.
Pol Maj Gen Montree Yimyam, deputy Bangkok police chief, said more areas adjacent to ceremonial venues would be opened to mourners and the number of people allowed there would be increased from about 40,000 to 90,000.
He identified additional areas as the pavements of Ratchadamnoen Nai Avenue from a road in the middle of Sanam Luang to Pom Phadet Datsakorn Fort, along the walls of the Grand Palace from Tha Chang pier to Tha Tien pier and opposite the Saranrom Park, along Thai Wang Road, and in front of Wat Phra Chetupon Wimon Mangkhalaram.
High-level representatives of 42 countries were set to attend the royal cremation. They include the leaders and royalty of 24 countries. Eighteen other countries would be represented by deputy leaders, heads of government and special representatives, the Foreign Ministry said.
Mourners shelter under umbrellas and raincoats as they wait by the Khlong Lot canal, reserving a spot near Sanam Luang, early Tuesday morning. (Photo by Patipat Janthong)
- Earlier report: King orders more space for mourners
