Locals say parked rental bikes dominate Beach Road, pushing out everyday users. PATTAYA, Thailand – After years of mounting complaints and congested roads, Pattaya officials have launched a renewed campaign to rein in unregulated motorbike rental operations along the city’s beachfront. But instead of praise, the move is being met with deep skepticism from local residents — many of whom believe the problem runs deeper than just parked scooters. Rows of rental bikes have long dominated Beach Road, particularly near Soi 13/3, Central Festival, and the Krungthai Bank. Residents say these operations take over entire stretches of public curb space, leaving tourists, locals, and delivery drivers with nowhere to park. “Finally!” said one long-frustrated driver. “I could never find a space. If it wasn’t the taxis, it was 200 rental bikes taking up every spot. People were fed up for years.” City Hall’s inspections come with a strong message: public areas are not for private gain. Yet, many Pattaya locals remain unconvinced. “Good luck with that,” one social media user quipped. “They’re cutting into their own arrangement — once those bikes are cleared, so are the under-the-table benefits that kept them there.” While officials have not directly addressed such claims, many believe the real issue isn’t just the bikes — but who enables them. For years, rumors have persisted about rental businesses paying unofficial fees or favors in exchange for being allowed to operate without interference. Locals doubt that these operations could so openly occupy public land without some level of protection or complicity. Crackdown or Cosmetic? – Residents question whether City Hall’s latest effort will lead to lasting reform. “Bravo, get them out of there,” one commenter cheered. “And while you’re at it, do the same with the taxis and motorbike taxis that block up the roads.” Some residents have suggested that enforcement should go beyond Beach Road. “About time they moved the rental cars and bikes off the sois too,” wrote another. “These streets are for everyone — not just for businesses turning a public space into a showroom.” Still, despite the City’s public statements, doubts remain. Locals say unless the root causes — including favoritism, lack of enforcement, and questionable informal arrangements — are addressed, the situation is unlikely to improve. “Public space should belong to the public,” said a resident. “Not to those who happen to know the right people.” In the eyes of many, the challenge isn’t launching another short-lived campaign, but dismantling what they see as a well-established system of influence and control. As one observer put it bluntly: “Nothing will change unless the whole racket is taken down — from the street level all the way up.”