STRICT PROTOCOL
The princess’ body is due to be transferred from Chulalongkorn Hospital, where she was treated, to the Grand Palace on Saturday afternoon – a customary procedure for deceased members of the royal family.
Thai police and public transport operators warned people to expect heavy traffic along the procession route and advised motorists to avoid affected areas where possible.
When King Bhumibol Adulyadej passed away in October 2016, his body was also taken to the Grand Palace, where it lay in state before an elaborate royal cremation ceremony the following year.
The Thai government has yet to announce details of the princess’ funeral, but it has instructed state officials to wear black and ordered that flags be flown at half-mast for 15 days.
The proceedings were carried out under tight security and strict protocol, where attendants wore formal attire, media access was restricted and dozens of police officers stood guard.
Tourists at the palace grounds, one of Bangkok’s most popular attractions, also had to find workarounds.
“It’s something quite unique that someone can be this much loved,” Maria Marcais, a 22-year-old visitor from Canada.
“It’s profound,” she said.
Read the full article here
