Tourists and locals continue to face traffic disruptions from double-parked vans and motorcycles along major streets and beachside areas. PATTAYA, Thailand – With traffic congestion remaining a sore point in the resort city, many are wondering whether Pattaya’s illegal parking problem — especially around tourist zones — is improving or simply being tolerated. While the city occasionally clears sidewalks and tows offending vehicles, enforcement tends to be inconsistent, frustrating both residents and visitors. Elsewhere in the country, however, authorities are taking stronger steps. In Bangkok’s bustling Pathumwan district, police have launched a rigorous campaign targeting illegal parking by tuk-tuks and other vehicles blocking roads in front of shopping malls. Between July 1–15, Pathumwan Police apprehended 824 vehicles under this crackdown. Pol. Col. Sirichart Janpromma, Superintendent of Pathumwan Police Station, said the effort followed direct orders from national police chief Pol. Gen. Kitirat Phanphet, with a clear goal: to restore traffic order, especially in high-traffic commercial areas like Rama I and Phayathai Roads. More than 300 tuk-tuks operate in the district, and many were reportedly parking illegally or waiting in no-stopping zones, disrupting the flow of vehicles and pedestrians alike. While Bangkok enforces drop-off zones and traffic laws, Pattaya remains lenient, fueling chaos near tourist hotspots. Police now require all three-wheel vehicle drivers, including tuk-tuk operators, to strictly comply with new regulations aimed at improving traffic flow and public safety. Drivers must possess a valid public vehicle license, operate only at designated pick-up and drop-off points, and refrain from obstructing traffic or engaging in reckless driving behavior. Authorities warn that violators will face immediate fines and possible license suspensions. Violators will face strict penalties, with no tolerance for repeat offenses. Back in Pattaya, where similar issues arise around Walking Street, shopping malls, and Jomtien Beach, such sustained and targeted enforcement remains sporadic. Locals have often raised concerns about double-parked tour vans, baht buses blocking lanes, and motorcycles cluttering sidewalks. If Pathumwan’s example shows anything, it’s that consistent enforcement works — and Pattaya may benefit from applying the same level of discipline to keep its streets safer and more accessible for everyone. With police in Bangkok targeting more than 300 tuk-tuks, Pattaya residents are asking: When will we see the same order here?