Pattaya police are implementing strict controls on motorcycles with loud exhausts in an effort to reduce noise pollution in the city. Motorcyclists who exceed the legal noise limit are fined and in some cases have their vehicles impounded until the exhaust is fixed. While this measure has received support, residents wonder why the same strictness is not applied to noisy nightclubs.
Action against noisy engines
In an attempt to restore order to Pattaya, police have set up checkpoints in recent months, especially late at night. Motorcyclists with excessively loud exhaust systems are immediately fined and vehicles that do not meet regulations can be temporarily impounded. The maximum permitted noise limit is 95 decibels, but some imported exhausts can produce up to 140 decibels, prompting residents to wonder why these exhausts are even allowed to be sold.
One resident cynically noted: “The louder the pipe, the lower the IQ.” This underscores the frustration over a problem that many believe has been going on for years and has still not been resolved.
Inequality in enforcement
In addition to criticism of the motorcycle nuisance, residents also point to another problem: while the police are cracking down on noisy motorcycles, nightclubs seem to be less strictly controlled. Especially venues outside the official nightlife zones play music at a deafening volume, without any action being taken against this.
One resident stated: “It seems easier to fine a few motorcyclists than to tackle big clubs that are supported by influential people.” This raises questions about enforcement priorities and possible arbitrariness in tackling noise pollution.
Broader traffic problem
In addition to the noise problem, residents also criticize the general driving behavior in Pattaya. Some Thai motorcyclists ride without rear-view mirrors, without license plates, without helmets and sometimes even under the influence. Motorcycles are also regularly overloaded with multiple passengers. This not only causes noise pollution, but also serious safety risks.
In other countries, strict noise regulations are enforced to protect the quality of life. This raises the question of whether Pattaya needs more robust regulations to structurally reduce noise pollution.
Balance between enforcement and interests
Pattaya police are committed to reducing motorcycle nuisance and improving the quality of life for residents and tourists. However, critical voices from the community show how complex this enforcement is. An effective approach requires not only policing motorcycles, but also a fair and broad approach to all forms of noise pollution, including that from nightclubs.
Source: Pattaya Mail
A few years ago I had to flee from a perfectly good hotel in Jomtien because there was a daily, all night noise from racing motorbikes with terribly loud exhausts.