Residents Light Candles to Protest Non-Functional Streetlights in Phatthalung
Villagers in Phatthalung have resorted to lighting candles and torches along a dark tourist route to protest streetlights that have remained off for nearly a year.
On October 18, 2026, residents of Ban Tao Pun in Phatthalung province staged a protest along the road connecting Ban Lampa to Ban Pak Pra, a route frequently used by tourists. Frustrated by the lack of illumination, locals placed candles and traditional torches along a one-kilometer stretch of the road to highlight the danger posed by the darkness.
According to Khaosod Online, the Department of Rural Roads installed new streetlights in the area nearly a year ago. However, the lights were only operational for two days before being turned off indefinitely. Local assistant village headman Wutichai stated that residents were initially pleased with the upgrade, especially since previous local government lighting had been removed to make way for the new installation. The current lack of lighting has caused significant concern for residents who use the road for early morning exercise and for travelers navigating the area at night.
This situation is particularly relevant to tourists and residents as the road serves as a key scenic route along the Songkhla Lake. While the community has attempted to seek answers from the authorities regarding the prolonged outage, they report that no explanation has been provided. It remains to be confirmed when, or if, the Department of Rural Roads intends to restore power to the lighting system, leaving the road currently hazardous for nighttime transit.
