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Pattaya sees record tourist surge during Songkran Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail As the extended Songkran holiday wrapped up on Tuesday, tourists bid farewell to the sun-kissed islands surrounding Pattaya, turning the Bali Hai Pier area into a buzzing hub of activity. Local authorities ramped up services to cater to the influx, ensuring convenience for visitors throughout the holiday period. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325290-pattaya-sees-record-tourist-surge-during-songkran/

As the extended Songkran holiday wrapped up on Tuesday, tourists bid farewell to the sun-kissed islands surrounding Pattaya, turning the Bali Hai Pier area into a buzzing hub of activity. Local authorities ramped up services to cater to the influx, ensuring convenience for visitors throughout the holiday period. Officers stationed at the pier witnessed a remarkable influx of tourists from April 12 to 15, with an average of 30,000 Thai visitors and foreign tourists per day seeking leisure and relaxation on the islands. On April 12 alone, 8,102 tourists set sail on island adventures via 42 ferry services. The numbers surged the following day, reaching 16,885 visitors served by 87 ferry trips. April 14 and 15 saw 7,462 and 9,259 visitors respectively, with ferry services numbering 36 and 48. This tallied up to 41,708 passengers traversing the islands over the four days, with ferry fares holding steady at 30 baht per person per trip. Factoring in speedboat excursions, the total could surpass 120,000 visitors over the five-day holiday. Amidst the festivities, reports surfaced of unscrupulous individuals exploiting the tourist influx. Some fell prey to fraudulent accommodation bookings on the islands, where deceptive online platforms duped tourists into transferring money for non-existent reservations. These incidents posed challenges to Pattaya’s tourism sector during the Songkran festivities, reported Pattaya Mail. Despite these hurdles, the extended Songkran holiday proved to be a boon for tourism in Pattaya, offering both locals and visitors a chance to unwind and immerse themselves in the vibrant celebrations. In related news, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) declared the recent Songkran celebrations at Sanam Luang in Bangkok a resounding success, drawing in a staggering 784,000 participants. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool shared the triumphant news at a press conference, unveiling the splashing success of the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024. The vibrant celebrations, spanning from April 11 to 15 on Rajdamnoen Klang Road and Sanam Luang, welcomed a whopping 784,883 attendees, with over 693,000 Thais joyously partaking, a whopping 72.18% of whom were proud Bangkok residents. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Caption: Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok commuters to ride electric trains for just 20 baht Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit pledged that by September 2025, electric train rides throughout the metropolitan area will cost a mere 20 baht, fulfilling a longstanding promise of the ruling Pheu Thai Party. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325289-bangkok-commuters-to-ride-electric-trains-for-just-20-baht/

Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit pledged that by September 2025, electric train rides throughout the metropolitan area will cost a mere 20 baht, fulfilling a longstanding promise of the ruling Pheu Thai Party. This initiative, initially implemented on select lines last year, faced scepticism from opposition figures like Surachet Pravinvongvuth of the Move Forward Party. Yet, Suriya remains steadfast, asserting that this policy is essential for enhancing transportation infrastructure and alleviating financial burdens for citizens. Addressing naysayers, Suriya emphasised the government’s commitment. “All train fares will indeed be capped at 20 baht.” To achieve this ambitious goal, the ministry plans to introduce a joint-ticket system, simplifying travel across the entire public transport network. Furthermore, a dedicated fund will compensate operators for revenue losses incurred by this fare cap. With a draft bill in the works, Suriya anticipates swift approval from the Cabinet, ensuring the seamless implementation of this groundbreaking policy, reported The Nation. Beyond affordability, Suriya underscores the environmental benefits, envisioning increased usage of eco-friendly electric trains to combat greenhouse gas emissions and hazardous PM2.5 particles. “The government remains steadfast in its promise. We’re determined to cap all train fares at 20 baht within two years, revolutionising urban transportation for the betterment of all.” In related news, the State Railway of Thailand‘s (SRT) Red Line electric commuter rail network is set to undergo a significant expansion, according to Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote. The Transport Ministry will put forth proposals for the construction of three extensions this week: the Taling Chan-Salaya extension, the Rangsit-Thammasat University, the Rangsit Campus extension, and the Taling Chan-Siriraj extension. In other news, Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) embarks on an initiative to replace its ageing fleet with 3,390 electric buses, announced Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri. During a recent board meeting, it was revealed that the BMTA has prioritised the urgent acquisition of new electric buses, aligning with its commitment to mitigate environmental impact across the metropolitan area. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Caption: Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Sand Pagodas Created Along Bangsaen Beach CHONBURI, April 18 (TNA) – The local authorities organize the tradition of building sand pagodas along Bang Saen beach to celebrate the Wan Lai festival in the eastern province of Chonburi. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325288-sand-pagodas-created-along-bangsaen-beach/

CHONBURI, April 18 (TNA) – The local authorities organize the tradition of building sand pagodas along Bang Saen beach to celebrate the Wan Lai festival in the eastern province of Chonburi. The Wan Lai festival is part of the Thai New Year celebration mainly held in some eastern and central provinces after the main Songkran Thai New Year events, celebrated in mid-April across the country. There are activities such as pouring water over Buddha images, building sand pagodas, splashing water, and traditional Thai folk games. Full story: Thai News Agency 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai PM’s Phuket visit focuses on traffic projects and foreign mafia Picture courtesy of PR Phuket Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is set to visit Phuket tomorrow, where he will be updated on the local police’s efforts to combat the so-called foreign mafia. Chai Watcharong, a spokesperson for the prime minister’s office, revealed the agenda for the prime minister’s Phuket visit yesterday, which will primarily revolve around progress reports on construction projects designed to ease traffic congestion in Phuket. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325260-frequent-flyer-thai-pm-returns-to-phuket-tomorrow/?do=findComment&comment=18852583

Thai PM’s Phuket visit focuses on traffic projects and foreign mafia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is set to visit Phuket tomorrow, where he will be updated on the local police’s efforts to combat the so-called foreign mafia. Chai Watcharong, a spokesperson for the prime minister’s office, revealed the agenda for the prime minister’s Phuket visit yesterday, which will primarily revolve around progress reports on construction projects designed to ease traffic congestion in Phuket. Joining the 62 year old prime minister, who also serves as the Minister of Finance, will be Suriya Juangroongruangkit, the Transport Minister, and Chayatan Phromsorn, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport. The delegation will also include Phongsaran Asavachaisophon, Secretary to the Prime Minister; Jatuporn Buruspat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment; and Chatchai Promlert, former Permanent Secretary of the Interior Ministry who currently chairs the Board of Directors of PTT Public Company Limited. Additionally, Police General Kittirat Panphet, Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, who currently serves as the Acting National Police Commissioner, will also join the official visit. PM Srettha and other high-ranking officials will depart from Military Airport 2 at Don Mueang in Bangkok around 9am, landing at Phuket International Airport for a meeting scheduled for 10.30am. The prime minister is expected to be updated on the status of the project to upgrade and expand Route 4027, a major artery running through Pa Khlok, which includes the expansion to four lanes and the progress of the elevated interchange at the northern end of Route 4027, where it intersects with Thepkrasattri Road. Sarasin Bridge Details about the new Sarasin Bridge project will also be briefed to the Bangkok-born Srettha, according to Chai, although no specifics about the project were provided. Afterwards, the prime minister will travel to the Region 8 Police headquarters near the Phuket Check Point at Tha Chatchai, where he will be briefed on the local police’s performance. The agenda includes tackling the drug problem, resolving issues related to informal and foreign debt, dealing with the online gambling and foreign mafia issue, tightening restrictions on alcohol-serving venues, addressing illegal immigration, and solving housing issues for police officers, reported The Phuket News. After the meeting, PM Srettha and his entourage will visit the site of the proposed Route 4027 interchange and the Heroines Monument to assess the traffic situation. They will also witness the constant traffic delays at the Koh Kaew Intersection and the U-Turn points just south of the Heroines Monument. The team is expected to return to Bangkok by 4.40pm, although changes to the schedule may occur if necessary, according to Chai. By Mitch Connor Caption: Picture courtesy of PR Phuket Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Shell-shocked: Poacher nabbed for selling rare turtle in Chiang Mai Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A poacher has been apprehended for hunting protected big-headed turtles in Pha Daeng National Park, with 17 of the creatures discovered in his possession. The suspect confessed to having been commissioned to sell the turtles for 2,400 baht per kilogramme. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325287-shell-shocked-poacher-nabbed-for-selling-rare-turtle-in-chiang-mai/

A poacher has been apprehended for hunting protected big-headed turtles in Pha Daeng National Park, with 17 of the creatures discovered in his possession. The suspect confessed to having been commissioned to sell the turtles for 2,400 baht per kilogramme. The head of Pha Daeng National Park, Prakasit Rawiwan, yesterday revealed a successful joint operation with the military’s Chaiyanuphap Task Force. The collaboration resulted in the establishment of a checkpoint to screen individuals entering the forest area near Ban Rin Luang, Chiang Dao district, Chiang Mai province. Around 9.30pm yesterday, April 17, a man on a motorcycle was spotted behaving suspiciously as he passed through the checkpoint. Upon inspection, park officials found 17 big-headed turtles concealed in a fertiliser sack, with a secondary backpack hiding an additional layer. Unfortunately, one of the turtles had already perished, and the total weight of the haul was 7.8 kilogrammes. The big-headed turtle is a category 1 protected species under the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act of 2019, which prohibits hunting, trade, or possession of the species. During the investigation, 50 year old Yuda, admitted that he had been hired by a person known only as Daeng, an acquaintance from Chiang Mai. Communication between them had occurred over Facebook Messenger. The transaction details and appointment to deliver the turtles emerged from the chat history. Daeng had contracted Yuda to source big-headed turtles at the price of 2,400 baht (US$65) per kilogramme. Yuda recounted that since April 6, he had spent approximately 10 days hunting and had agreed to deliver the turtles to Huay Pa Hom, Chiang Dao district. Following the arrest, Yuda led the officials to the capture site in the headwater forests of Ban Na Siri, in the area of Hua Nam Hueng, Huay Pha Daeng, located within the boundaries of Pha Daeng National Park. The authorities have charged Yuda with several offences, including taking wildlife from a national park, entering a national park without compliance with the orders of park officials, hunting protected wildlife, and possession of protected wildlife, all of which carry heavy penalties, including imprisonment and fines, reported KhaoSod. Yuda is currently in the custody of the Na Wai Police for further legal proceedings, and efforts are underway to identify and prosecute the rest of the poaching syndicate. Meanwhile, the surviving turtles will be released back into their natural habitat by the park officials. By Nattapong Westwood Caption: Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai woman crashes pickup into traffic cop in Lop Buri Photo via Facebook/ โจโฉ A 26 year old Thai woman crashed her pickup into a traffic police officer on Highway No. 21 in the central province of Lop Buri on April 16, causing serious injuries to the officer. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325286-thai-woman-crashes-pickup-into-traffic-cop-in-lop-buri/

A 26 year old Thai woman crashed her pickup into a traffic police officer on Highway No. 21 in the central province of Lop Buri on April 16, causing serious injuries to the officer. The accident occurred at Ban Deelang Intersection on Highway No. 21, also known as Saraburi-Lomsak Road, in the Pattana Nikhom district of Lop Buri province. A traffic police officer from the Highway Police, 39 year old Piyanan Siseu, sustained severe injuries. Due to heavy traffic congestion during the Songkran festival holiday, a helicopter was sent to the scene to transport Piyanan to the Police General Hospital in Bangkok. However, the helicopter had to make an emergency landing shortly after takeoff because Piyanan’s condition deteriorated due to the change in air pressure. His pulse dropped significantly, and his blood pressure became unstable during the flight. An emergency vehicle from Pattana Nikhom Hospital transported Piyanan, but the hospital lacked the necessary equipment to treat him. Consequently, Piyanan was transferred to King Narai Hospital, which was 40 kilometres away. Medical workers reported that Piyanan had lost a significant amount of blood and suffered brain swelling. He underwent emergency surgery on the day of the incident, prompting the hospital to issue a call for blood donations to support his treatment. Thai PBS reported today, April 18, that Piyanan’s condition has improved, although he remains unconscious. He was transferred to the Police General Hospital in Bangkok at 10 am today for further treatment. The driver of the pickup truck, a 26 year old Thai woman whose identity was not disclosed, claimed to police and the media that the police had closed traffic lanes upon her arrival at the scene, leading to her collision with Piyanan, who was on duty at the spot. According to Thai PBS, as reported, some of the traffic lanes were closed, with signage notifying motorists 1 kilometre before the closure. The driver was taken to Pattana Nikhom Police Station for further questioning. Police suspect she was driving at high speed and may not have been familiar with the route. She was initially charged with reckless driving, and the legal consequences will depend on the assessment of the severity by the traffic police officer. By Petch Petpailin Caption: Photo via Facebook/ โจโฉ Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

ASEANNOW is Joining The Thaiger BANGKOK: -- We have some fantastic news to share with all of you today! Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325285-aseannow-is-joining-the-thaiger/

BANGKOK: -- We have some fantastic news to share with all of you today! ASEANNOW has officially joined The Thaiger family, following the acquisition of all our digital assets by The Thaiger from Choice Group Asia Co., Ltd. This marks a significant milestone as we combine forces with one of Thailand’s top English language news publishers. This new chapter is not just about growth; it’s about enhancing the experience for all our forum members and readers. Darren Lyons, CEO of The Thaiger, shared his thoughts about the acquisition: “We’ve always held ASEAN NOW in high regard, particularly during its days as Thai Visa. The synergies between our platforms are clear, and we’re excited to start working together with ASEAN NOW's team to drive forward innovations and improvements across the board.” George Anderssen, ASEAN NOW's COO, commented on the opportunities ahead: “This is a thrilling time for ASEAN NOW. With the increased emphasis on forums by search engines like Google, our platform's growth is accelerating even faster. We’re ready to leverage this momentum and achieve new heights.” In response to recent discussions, we want to assure our community that our core team and moderators will continue to be an integral part of ASEANNOW. The Thaiger is committed to enhancing site speed, evolving our news style, expanding our social media activities, increasing video content, and above all, enriching your experience on our platform. Thank you for being such a vital part of ASEAN NOW. We are excited to embark on this journey together and look forward to what we can achieve as part of The Thaiger family. -- The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Questions? Please email George Anderssen, COO, george[at]aseannow.com

Elderly man drowns in Samut Prakan amid financial woes Picture courtesy of Sanook Tragedy struck in Samut Prakan when a 63 year old man from Buriram, was found drowned in a water pit near a local road in the early hours of today. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325284-elderly-man-drowns-in-samut-prakan-amid-financial-woes/

Tragedy struck in Samut Prakan when a 63 year old man from Buriram, was found drowned in a water pit near a local road in the early hours of today. Responding to a distress call around 12.30am today, Wanuspong Madha, a deputy investigator from the Mueang Samut Prakan Police Station, arrived at the scene with paramedics from Samut Prakan Hospital and volunteers from the local charity foundation. They discovered Kaew unconscious, pulled to the side of the water pit by residents. Despite about ten minutes of CPR, they were unable to revive him, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident has highlighted the plight of older workers in Thailand. A Facebook post by the deceased yesterday read… “When we work, we get cheated. No one wants to hire us because of our age. Lying in a room like a bedridden patient, what is there to live for? I can’t take it anymore; I don’t want to live.” This statement, along with a conversation between Kaew’s son and his employer regarding unpaid wages, paints a picture of the desperation that Kaew may have felt. Drinking alcohol Eyewitnesses from the neighbourhood reported seeing Kaew by the water pit close to midnight, drinking alcohol. One local, who had been playing with their phone in their car around 9pm, noticed only Kaew’s shoes when they next looked, prompting them to find Kaew in the pit. They suggested that Kaew was not intoxicated, having consumed only a small amount of alcohol. The 34 year old middle son of the deceased shared that his father worked as a security guard. He recounted how he had helped his father find this job but, due to his father’s age and lack of proper documentation, the employer had failed to pay him. The son had confronted the employer regarding the unpaid wages earlier yesterday evening. After a confusing phone call with his father, who seemed drunk, the son later learned of his father’s tragic fate. The 22 year old youngest son revealed that his father had been stressed about several issues, including work, finances, and funeral expenses for a relative that they couldn’t afford. Although Kaew often expressed a desire to die when he was drunk, he never acted on it, raising questions about why this time was different. The son was informed of his father’s death when someone came to notify him at his residence, on his 22nd birthday, reported Sanook. The police plan to further investigate the incident, including reviewing CCTV footage from the area to determine the true cause of the tragedy. The body has been sent to Samut Prakan Hospital for an autopsy, after which it will be released to the family for religious rites. By Samantha Rose Caption: Picture courtesy of Sanook Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Sleep-deprived driver’s tragic lapse leads to monk’s death Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic accident in Pathum Thani province today resulted in the death of a monk and injuries to two others when a delivery truck driver, who had not slept since midnight, fell asleep at the wheel and crashed into a group of monks on their alms round. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325283-sleep-deprived-driver’s-tragic-lapse-leads-to-monk’s-death/

A tragic accident in Pathum Thani province today resulted in the death of a monk and injuries to two others when a delivery truck driver, who had not slept since midnight, fell asleep at the wheel and crashed into a group of monks on their alms round. The peaceful morning ritual today, April 18, turned into a scene of chaos and tragedy on the outskirts of Bangkok, as a black Isuzu D-Max pickup truck, driven by 21 year old Benjamine, ploughed into a group of monks collecting alms in the Klong Luang district. Among the victims was Areesak Pathumya, a 69 year old monk from Wat Tawan Rueang, who sustained fatal injuries. Another monk, Phra Phapasphon Juntara, 21 years old, and a local almsgiver, 52 year old Sukanya, were also injured in the incident. Arriving at the scene on the road along Canal 4, Moo 11, near Soi Tawan Ok 59, in Klong Si subdistrict, Police Lieutenant Colonel Siroj Naebnian and the volunteer team from the Po Tek Tueng Foundation discovered the catastrophic aftermath. The pickup truck lay in the canal, completely wrecked, while the white Honda City, struck by the truck, was flung more than 10 meters away. The police immediately began their investigation, documenting the scene as evidence. During the initial questioning, Benjamine, who sustained minor injuries, recounted his gruelling work schedule, admitting he had been awake since midnight delivering goods and was en route to his home near Klong Si when he succumbed to sleepiness and lost control of the vehicle. He awoke only to find himself amid the accident’s aftermath. The police have since charged him with reckless driving resulting in death and further legal proceedings are underway, reported KhaoSod. The remains of the deceased monk have been entrusted to the Po Tek Tung Foundation for transport to the Thammasat University Hospital’s Forensic Science Institute for a detailed autopsy. By Nattapong Westwood Caption: Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket’s reservoirs promise adequate water supply until rains Picture courtesy of NBT Phuket Phuket‘s three primary reservoirs are sufficiently water-filled to ensure the island’s inhabitants have enough water until the annual rains due next month, confirmed Krirksak Leenanon, the Chief of Phuket Irrigation Office. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325282-phuket’s-reservoirs-promise-adequate-water-supply-until-rains/

Phuket tourism market edging towards recovery in 2024 Phuket’s tourism industry is undergoing an ongoing rebound, with last year’s airport passenger arrivals edging towards pre-pandemic figures according to a new report from consulting group C9 Hotelworks. While hitting 7 million, it was still short of the 9 million mark set in 2019. This year the trend is continuing with 1.62 million arrivals to date in February, compared to 1.77 million recorded in the same period of 2019. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325281-phuket-tourism-market-edging-towards-recovery-in-2024/

Phuket‘s three primary reservoirs are sufficiently water-filled to ensure the island’s inhabitants have enough water until the annual rains due next month, confirmed Krirksak Leenanon, the Chief of Phuket Irrigation Office. Currently, Bang Wad Reservoir, located in Kathu, holds 2.12 million cubic metres of water, indicating it is 20% full. Meanwhile, Bang Neow Dum Reservoir, situated in Srisoonthorn, is 45% full with 3.57 million cubic metres of water. The Klong Kata Reservoir in Chalong is 32% full, having 1.32 million cubic metres of water. Krirksak confirmed these figures were up to date as of yesterday. He noted that the water volume in Bang Wad Reservoir in Kathu this year is slightly lower than in previous years. However, it hasn’t reached a critical level and can continue to provide water to the population, including business owners, till the end of May. Krirksak expressed some optimism, however. “Assuming the rains arrive as anticipated in May, we should not encounter any issues.” Krirksak also mentioned that they have identified several alternative water sources, originating from both the private sector and various water mines, reported The Phuket News. Additionally, he revealed they have a plan to request aid from royal rainmakers if required. He concluded by stating that they would continue to execute their short-, medium-, and long-term strategies. In related news, the Phi Phi Islands, a prominent tourist attraction in Krabi, are grappling with a severe shortage of freshwater. The local authorities are exploring potential solutions, with two options under consideration – a pipeline bringing water from the mainland or the production of freshwater from the sea, according to the Ao Nang Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor). Phankham Kittitorakul, President of Ao Nang OrBorTor, highlighted the recurring lack of tap water during the dry season. This period coincides with the tourist high season, exacerbating the situation over the past few years. To address this, Ao Nang OrBorTor has received funding to investigate these two possible solutions. By Mitch Connor Caption: Picture courtesy of NBT Phuket Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket’s tourism industry is undergoing an ongoing rebound, with last year’s airport passenger arrivals edging towards pre-pandemic figures according to a new report from consulting group C9 Hotelworks. While hitting 7 million, it was still short of the 9 million mark set in 2019. This year the trend is continuing with 1.62 million arrivals to date in February, compared to 1.77 million recorded in the same period of 2019. The Chinese market is slowly recuperating, with last year’s figures at 650,000, still a stark contrast to the 2 million arrivals pre-pandemic. Nonetheless, the introduction of visa exemptions for Chinese and increasing flight connectivity is anticipated to bolster these numbers. Regional Southeast Asian markets are outperforming previous records, with Singapore’s arrival numbers doubling and Malaysia experiencing a 67% boost. These statistics underscore the potential of short-haul tourism in a world adjusting to post-pandemic travel norms. Hotel metrics mirror this positive trajectory, with hotel occupancies soaring to nearly 78% in 2023. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) has reached a new historical peak, climbing 43% from the previous year. This uptick is attributed not only to returning tourists but also to Phuket’s ability to attract a higher-spending demographic. The hotel sector’s development pipeline has slowed but is highlighted by 19 projects with 3,719 keys market, among which 3 properties are hotel conversion with 821 keys. Branded properties represent 91% of the pipeline. Based on C9’s market research incoming supply has been reduced by over 50%, as Phuket’s real estate market has seen land cost skyrocket and an overheated property sector. Many hotel owners and developers have shifted focus from greenfield projects to conversions and repositioning via renovations. By Bill Barnett Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fare fight: Phuket tuk tuk driver attacks Thai woman Photo via Facebook/ เศรษฐี ก้อย ศรีสุวรรณ์ A Thai woman took to social media to accuse a tuk tuk driver on Bangla Road in Phuket of overcharging her foreign friend and attacking her after they refused the service. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325280-fare-fight-phuket-tuk-tuk-driver-attacks-thai-woman/

A Thai woman took to social media to accuse a tuk tuk driver on Bangla Road in Phuket of overcharging her foreign friend and attacking her after they refused the service. The Thai woman, Kanyasiri Sisuwan, shared the story about the tuk tuk driver on Facebook on April 15. She said she wanted to seek justice for herself and for tuk tuk drivers in Phuket to respect passengers’ choices. Kanyasiri explained that her male foreign friend asked her to call a tuk tuk for him as he wanted to travel from Bangla Road to the Kamala neighbourhood in Phuket. She asked a nearby tuk tuk driver about the transport fee, and the driver requested 700 baht. The trip from the Bangla Road to the Kamala area is about 11 kilometres, and the actual transport fee, according to the Grab application, is between 400 to 500 baht. Kanyasiri said her foreign friend decided not to use the service due to the high price and opted for an app-based driver instead. She then helped the foreigner book the car using the application. Their refusal angered the tuk tuk driver. Kanyasiri revealed that the driver verbally abused her with vulgar language, sparking a heated argument. Subsequently, the driver physically assaulted her by beating and kicking her in front of other tuk tuk drivers present at the scene. Kanyasiri denounced the inaction of the other tuk tuk drivers, stating that no one intervened during the attack. She added that some of them even criticised her for declining the service. Mafia tuk tuk drivers The tuk tuk driver fled the scene following the attack but she managed to capture a photo of his vehicle and its registration plate. Another driver present at the scene chastised her for photographing his friend’s car and threatened further violence against her. According to Kanyasiri, another tuk tuk driver said… “Why are you taking a picture? If you want to take a picture that badly, you should take a picture of my car. You’ll see what I can do!” Kanyasiri reported that she sustained wounds and scratches from the attack and experienced pain throughout her body. She asserted that passengers have the right to decline service if the transportation fare is deemed too high, and the driver had no justification for assaulting them, as he did to her. Numerous Thai netizens voiced concern for her well-being, while others recounted their negative encounters with tuk tuks in Phuket. “All of the tuk tuk on Bangla Road are mafia. I experienced it myself. The fee was very expensive.” “I won’t go to Phuket anymore! It’s too scary!” “Tuk tuk drivers in Phuket are so aggressive. I parked my car in a public parking area, but a tuk tuk driver asked me to leave, claiming it was only for tuk tuk drivers.” “My foreign friends told me that Phuket is beautiful but it’s not a good place to live.” “Only mafia live in Phuket!” “A good tuk tuk driver in Phuket advised me not to help anyone who was in trouble with mafia drivers, warning that the mafia group would attack me.” As of now, no relevant departments have stepped forward to solve the matter or help the woman seek justice. By Petch Petpailin Caption: Photo via Facebook/ เศรษฐี ก้อย ศรีสุวรรณ์ Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Sanam Luang Songkran bash smashes records Photo courtesy of The Nation Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) declared the recent Songkran celebrations at Sanam Luang in Bangkok a resounding success, drawing in a staggering 784,000 participants. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool shared the triumphant news at a press conference, unveiling the splashing success of the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325279-sanam-luang-songkran-bash-smashes-records/