Tourism Authority: Beefing up security

Security for tourists is a top priority at this  popular northern destination according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand Chiang Mai Office director, Chalermsak Suranant. He told TTR Weekly late last week that tourist safety was a hot issue that demanded provinces tighten measures. “To raise security and safety, TAT is supporting the set up of CCTV surveillance at popular tourist spots such as Tha Phae area and the city’s walking street. The project should be ready in two months.” CCTV cameras will be used as a deterrent against violent crime in tourist districts and could possibly reduce theft and bag snatching. Once the cameras are operational, travellers and residents will be able to gain a real-time situation report on TAT’s website www.tourismthailand.org, he said. “The website should help us to track fraud and tour operator scams as well as troublesome Song-Teaws that are over charging tourists.” Earlier in mid-June, Chiang Mai governor Panadda Disakul instructed security units to beef up measures to improve confidence. Police patrol units have been increased particularly during the weekends when there is a large influx of tourists. There are more than 200 volunteers who patrol the areas and report to police officers if they witness tourist related incidents. From ttrweekly