Pattaya residents have raised concerns over the apparent malfunction of 5G-enabled smart poles along Pattaya Beach, which have reportedly been inactive for several weeks. The issue, observed as of June 10, 2025, includes non-operational display screens and public information systems that were previously active along the beachfront.
During a site visit on June 10 by local reporters, it was noted that the smart infrastructure—spanning from the northern to southern ends of the beach—was unlit and inactive. The display screens, which had been used to promote tourism and public messaging, were not functioning.
A local resident, Mr. Surat, told reporters that the system had previously operated without issues, with the screens active daily. He noted the screens have remained dark for about a month, and said he was unaware of the cause. He expressed hope that authorities would address the issue promptly to restore the systems to working order.
The smart poles were part of a broader initiative under the 5G Pattaya Smart City project. National Telecom Public Company Limited (NT) had entered into a memorandum of understanding with Pattaya City to deploy 5G technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT) applications aimed at enhancing urban services and quality of life for both residents and tourists.
The initiative is designed to support city management through improved connectivity and data-driven services. The poles, installed as part of this collaboration, are intended to be a key feature of the city’s digital infrastructure.
Officials and project partners involved in the development and oversight of the Smart City initiative have not yet issued a public statement on the reported technical issues.
