Thais flock to Grand Palace at weekends to pay last respect to late King

BANGKOK, Nov 5 (TNA) - Buses had lined up the Rajdamnoen Klang Road in front of the Rattanakosin Hotel since the early morning, as they dropped off passengers who were set to queuing up at the Grand Palace to pay their last tribute to His late Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej's body. Black-clad mourners from across the nation have lined up to enter the palace since 4.30 am this morning, and since today is Saturday, the Grand Palace has opened its gates since 4.30 am as well, to allow public members to pay their final respect to the beloved and revered monarch. A report said 17 buses from Phichit province carrying 750 passengers had set out from the heart of the province since 10 pm last night and only arrived at the palace at 5.30 am. Meanwhile, strict screening of visitors at the palace continued to be carried out. Authorities have been searching through bags and belongings to ensure that no weapons or dangerous items have been brought into Sanam Luang area. After 7 am this morning, traffic on 27 roads located around the Sanam Luang ground and connected roads would be closed for the rest of the day to cater to the expected higher volume of the people during the weekend, who have been arriving at the Grand Palace to say their last farewell to HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej. (TNA)