During yesterday's show of force and readiness at the expo site in Mae His district, Colonel Atthakit Kornthong, deputy provincial police commissioner, said he had to prepare his men for any eventuality.

"We don't know what could happen. Normally during construction there are often rallies or gatherings of onion and garlic growers. We have to get ready in case those people go on protest during the event," he said.

Most of the police are from Chiang Mai and some are from nearby provinces. They would work on rotating shifts of about 110 men a day.

Visitors to the international horticultural exhibition would not be overawed by the police presence, as the anti-riot and hostage-release police would remain on standby at the Provincial Police Region 5 office, Atthakit said.

Those on duty at the 470-rai site would look presentable in uniforms of white T-shirts screened with flowers on the front and the word "Police" on the back.

Police had a Bt24-million budget to protect festival-goers.

Adisak Sreesunpagit, director-general of the Agriculture Department, the co-organiser of the event, said security was a grave concern as about 100,000 people would cross the turnstiles daily.

Hundreds of security guards hired from a company would also strive to ensure a safe, educational and enjoyable time for all.

Pennapa Hongthong

The Nation

Chiang Mai