Everything concerning the event was carried out carefully to promote openess and transparency. The project is aimed at promoting tourism in the city as there will be a large influx of tourists during the festive season, she said.
About39 million baht had been spent on the event. It is derived from the budget for 2016, not from the civil contingencies fund, Ms Pranee said. Illuminations are not new, a BMA source said. It is a City Hall tradition to put up New Year light displays each year to allow people to enjoy a beautifully decorated city centre.
Last year, locations along the Chao Phraya River were lit up. This year the light display is at Lan Khon Meuang, the source added. A total of 5 million LED lights and crystal light fixtures are being used to light up Lan Khon Muans turning the square into a lavishly decorated spot.