Thailand gears up for coronation of King Rama X

Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn – Rama X (Photo: Reuters)

More than 200,000 people are expected to attend ceremonies during the coronation of King Maha Vajiralongkorn – Rama X in May, estimated Thai authorities. 

According to Lt. Gen. Kraiboon Suadsong, commissioner of Thailand’s Police Strategy Office, the Sanam Luang open field and areas along the Grand Palace’s wall will be open to the public to watch royal processions during May 5-6.

To prepare for the coronation, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has set up 12 committees to provide food, drinking water and public toilets for the public.

Mobile kitchens will be installed at six locations to serve free food, including Lan Khon Muang Plaza which is opposite the City Hall and Museum Siam near the Grand Palace.

The BMA also prepares 80 clean water tanks and eight vehicles carrying water, while calling the private sector to distribute free water in other 90 spots.

Forty-eight mobile toilets will be available at the site. In addition, government buildings will open their lavatories for public use.

Those who want to stay the night may come to Kilawet gymnasium in the Thailand-Japan Bangkok Youth Centre, which could accommodate up to 1,000 people.

Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn became King Rama X in December 2016, after his farther King Bhumibol Adulyadej – Rama IX – passed away in October the same year, at 88.

On the occasion, Thai authorities had 1,000 commemorative coins minted from platinum valued at 1 million baht, the highest so far. Besides, other commemorative coins made of copper, silver and gold valued at 3,000 baht, 5,000 baht and 19,000 baht are also circulated.

VNA