Protesters add to traffic chaos

PAD protesters have closed down parts of Rajdamnoen Nok Avenue, from Makkhawan Rangsan Bridge to the Royal Plaza, and a portion of Phitsanulok Road, from Wang Daeng to the Royal Turf Club of Thailand.

Yesterday's gridlock forced about 2,000 students to walk for a kilometre to reach Rajavinit Matthayom School.

"Traffic slowed down from 6am," Deputy Metropolitan Police Commissioner MajGeneral Panu Kerdlarpphol said.

He complained that the PAD now occupied more road surface than at the time of its demonstrations at Makkhawan Rangsan Bridge.

The PAD has promised to remove the blockade on Sundays when rehearsal processions and parades for HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana's Royal Cremation will take place.

Meanwhile, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is removing tents, stalls and utensils of vendors from Sanam Luang.

"We've already informed vendors they must vacate the area by October 25," said Prasert Chaweein, the city lawenforcement chief at Phra Nakhon District Office.

He said vendors could get their possessions back, but must pay fines first.

"Strictly, vendors can't ply their trade in Sanam Luang on November 2, November 14, November 15 and November 16," he added.

The Royal Cremation ceremonies will run from November 14 to November 16, while November 2 is a dress rehearsal. The royal crematorium is located inside Sanam Luang.

Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance Against Dictatorship (DAAD) has received permission to erect its tents at Sanam Luang until October 31.

A number of people yesterday showed up at the Metropolitan Police Bureau near Royal Plaza to collect "solve the country's crisis" coins from staff helping retired police officer, General Salang Bunnag's progovernment activities.

The Metropolitan Police Bureau denied having anything to do with Salang's plan, saying that it just gave Salang some utility space.