VIENTIANE: The Vientiane Public Security Headquarters has announced wide-ranging measures aimed at curbing noise levels, fireworks, water play, and inappropriate road use to ensure safety, preserve traditions, and maintain public order during the Lao New Year festival.
A notice issued by the security department states that the use of sound equipment must be limited to the hours of 8am to 11pm, with volume levels not exceeding 80 decibels, to ensure local residents are not unduly disturbed.
Any businesses that violate the rules three times face fines of between 5 million and 10 million kip, along with the confiscation of equipment and revocation of their operating licences.
Individuals who fail to comply will be fined between 500,000 kip and 3 million kip, have their equipment seized, and may face legal proceedings.
The measures are set out in Notice No. 168, dated April 7, to ensure everyone enjoys a safe and peaceful holiday, as the year 2569 in the Buddhist calendar begins next week.
Authorities have also tightened controls on fireworks including rockets, and lighted sky lanterns. People found buying, selling or possessing such materials weighing up to one kilogramme will be fined 500,000 kip, while quantities exceeding one kilogramme will incur an additional fine of 500,000 kip per kilogramme.
Anyone caught secretly igniting or setting off these items will face fines ranging from 500,000 to 5 million kip. All items will be confiscated and destroyed immediately.
Strict rules are also in place to reduce the risk of harm during water revelry. People are banned from spraying water onto roads using rubber hoses outside their houses, throwing ice in plastic bags, or using coloured or dirty water. Placing tables, chairs or tents in ways that block footpaths and traffic routes is also prohibited.
Road safety measures have been strengthened to prevent accidents. Drink-driving is strictly banned, along with riding on vehicle rooftops or in pickup truck beds, racing in convoys, and gathering to dance along roadsides. Children below the legal driving age are not allowed to operate vehicles.
The notice also calls for respect for Lao societal norms. People visiting temples to pour water over monks or Buddha images must dress appropriately, with men not allowed to wear shorts and women prohibited from wearing short or revealing clothing.
In addition, swimming or playing in Mekong riverside areas without permission or without safety personnel on duty is banned to prevent drowning incidents.
Mobile defence units, district administrations and village authorities have been assigned to organise patrols throughout the festival period. The notice states that all violators will be strictly prosecuted in line with the Government notice and orders issued by the Vientiane Administration Office. - Vientiane Times/ANN
