BMA calls off Songkran celebrations at Sanam Luang

BANGKOK, 29 March 2010 (NNT) – The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has called off the Thai calendar’s New Year celebration (Songkran) plan, which has been held every year at Sanam Luang Ceremonial Ground due to the prolonged demonstrations by the anti-government United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD).

According to the Director-General of the Department of Culture Sports and Tourism, Somsak Chantawattana, the Department’s Board Meeting had agreed to cancel all entertainment activities during Songkran Festival. The religious ritual however, will be held at the venue.

During 12-15 April, Phra Buddha Sihing, the important Buddha statue will be relocated from the National Museum to the ritual venue for the water pouring and homage paying ceremonies, while the morning alms offering ceremony will be held on 13 April.

Mr Somsak added that any celebrations will be taken care of by the security units of each area. However, the Bangkok Governor will announce the official schedule in early April.