(the Lao New Year) in Vientiane from April 13-15, citing the need to ensure public security and social order in keeping with Lao custom.
The Nang Sangkhan beauty contest will be held on the That Luang esplanade on April 10-12 before the main procession on New Year’ s Eve, according to a notice issued by Vientiane Mayor Soukanh Mahalath.
That Luang esplanade will also be the site of a street fair, selling Lao goods produced in different regions of the country. Local businesses can reserve a pitch at the fair.
Meanwhile Lao-ITECC will host another trade fair exhibiting Lao products for sale, as well as goods from China, Vietnam and Thailand.
At Don Chan beach, authorities will organise sporting events. The public can also gather here to make sand stupas and cool off in the Mekong shallows.
The area from Vat Chan to That Khao village will be dedicated to water throwing, with people from other localities encouraged to gather here for the celebrations.
Water throwing will only be permitted over the three days of the Lao New Year holiday between the hours of 9am and 6pm.
Vientiane Police Traffic Advertisement Unit Head Major Bounmark Soundalay told Vientiane Times yesterday that Fa Ngum Road has been designated the site for New Year celebrations.
Setthathirath Road will be closed to traffic for a limited time to create a pedestrian zone and to ensure traditional water-throwing activities are carried out in safety. The authorities have not yet discussed in detail which areas will be set aside for parking.
The notice says the authorities will promote road safety by seeking to ensure that motorists don’t drink and drive. The throwing of water containing coloured dye and dirt will be banned, as will the use of ice and water-filled plastic bags as missiles. The use of such items can cause injuries and traffic accidents.
The notice also prohibits the lighting of fireworks and street parties that hinder traffic flow. Each district is required to set up a committee to organise celebrations in such a way that safety, enjoyment and social order prevail.
Mr Soukanh called on households to celebrate the New Year thriftily so as to avoid eating into family finances.
Everyone should be on their guard against crimes such as house break-ins, as well as road accidents, larceny and property damage.
The mayor urged local residents to clean up public areas and ensure they are litter-free ahead of the event.
Lao New Year is a time when young people take the opportunity to show respect for their elders. Many people also take the opportunity to visit their hometowns and spend time with their relatives.
The Nang Sangkhan beauty contest will be held on the That Luang esplanade on April 10-12 before the main procession on New Year’ s Eve, according to a notice issued by Vientiane Mayor Soukanh Mahalath.