“Rainbow roads, pothole problems – Pattaya paints over priorities ahead of Pride Parade.” PATTAYA, Thailand – As Pattaya gears up to welcome the Pride Festival 2025 this week, city workers have been busy unveiling bold new rainbow road markings along major routes, including the Dusit Curve in North Pattaya, aiming to brighten up the streets and show support for inclusivity and diversity. But not everyone is cheering. While the bright stripes may look good in photos, many residents are asking a more practical question: Why not fix the potholes first? “Many dangerous hole in the road but no have money for repair…,” one longtime local wrote online. Another remarked, “Obviously too much cash left in the budget, so let’s paint the road pretty colors instead of doing something useful, like repairing the roads.” Critics have voiced concerns not only about misplaced priorities but also about the potential hazards. “That should be good for the bikes when it’s wet,” one motorcyclist joked, while another added, “Hopefully slippery enough to cause some parade goers broken ankles.” Some residents have taken aim at the artistic execution itself: “What I find more irritating is that it’s not really a rainbow. No pink in rainbows and they’re missing the violet at the far right. So really more rainbow-themed. If you are going to do it, at least do it right!” “Colorful stripes but crumbling streets – locals ask why not fix the potholes first?” And in true Pattaya style, the snark came in strong: “Perfect for doing burnouts,” one person quipped. “It’s getting boring,” said another. “So stupid and unnecessary,” echoed a frustrated driver. Still, amid the backlash, others defended the initiative. “Love it. Troll the smooth brains,” commented one supporter, viewing the rainbow road as a cheerful addition and a symbol of progress—however flawed its paint job may be. As Pattaya prepares to host thousands for the Pride Parade, the city continues to walk a fine line between celebration and civic frustration. Festive as it may be, the question lingers on many lips: Do we really need rainbow roads, or just safer ones?