What can be done to ensure security during the Boat Racing Festival?

The Boat Racing Festival is hugely popular but regrettably the large crowds and heavy traffic lead to a spike in thefts and road accidents. Vientiane Times asked some members of the public for their thoughts on this troubling issue.

Ms Kee Xayyalath, a resident of Savannakhet province: Unpleasant incidents always happen during festivals, including pickpocketing, other types of theft and road accidents. The authorities always warn people to take more responsibility for their belongings, but the problem persists. I think there should be more publicity campaigns to inform people about the regulations and persuade everyone to comply with them. Many people don’t understand or know about the regulations, and the authorities are lax in enforcing them. It would also be good if everyone helped the police with their investigation of crimes.

Mr Khampan, a resident of Naxaithong district, Vientiane: The boat racing festival is a big and important event and many people from around Vientiane and the provinces come to enjoy the fun. With all of the crowds on the streets, it’s a good opportunity for thieves. I have heard about houses being burgled while people were out, so we should make sure someone stays at home to take care of everything and not leave the house empty. And before leaving the house everyone should check that there’s no fire risk in the kitchen and make sure all electrical appliances are turned off to prevent an accident of some kind.

Ms Na Vorarath, an employee in Sikhottabong district, Vientiane: I know that the police always warn the public in an attempt to reduce the number of crimes and accidents during the festival. But this is a very difficult problem to tackle, especially traffic congestion. Many road users don’t respect the traffic laws or take any notice of the measures put in place by the police. Everyone should pay more attention to announcements and act more responsibly so that fewer unwanted incidents occur. People should take more responsibility for their belongings and not just rely on the police to sort things out.

Ms Tamon Sonesavanh, an employee from Huaphan province: As we all know, there are many road accidents during this festival because people drink more than usual, despite the police taking steps to reduce the number of accidents. I think the police should strictly monitor drivers’ alcohol levels, and authorities should enforce the law. Drinking and driving is one of the main causes of accidents. I urge everyone to drive safely and considerately so there are fewer accidents.

Ms Phaivah, a resident of Xaythany district, Vientiane: Many people come to this festival and the streets and riverside get very crowded, which makes it easy for thieves to pick pockets and steal mobile phones. Fighting and other problems also occur. Although the police do their best to maintain security, including being on standby during the festival, unpleasant incidents happen every year. I think that if everyone worked together to maintain social order there would be fewer problems. We should keep an eye on our pockets, bags, phones and other valuables to make sure we don’t fall victim to thieves.

By Lamphone Pasanthong
(Latest Update October 6, 2022)