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Traffic in Bangkok | Photo via ThaiResidents.com In an effort to tackle chronic traffic jams and pollution in Bangkok, Thailand plans to introduce a congestion charge in six high-traffic areas of the city. Following successful implementations in cities like London and Milan, the charge aims to relieve gridlock, encourage public transport, and cut down greenhouse gas emissions. Motorists will have to pay a fee during peak hours, starting at 40 to 50 baht per vehicle, expected to increase every five years to reach 80 baht per vehicle. The initiative is projected to generate around 10 billion baht annually, with funds helping to maintain a 20-baht fare cap on certain train services. Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit backs the move, hoping it will lead to less congestion and cleaner air. According to a 2023 survey by the German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ) and the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP), the congestion charge will target the following areas due to their high traffic volumes: Phetchaburi-Thonglor intersection: 60,112 vehicles daily Silom-Naradhiwas intersection: 62,453 vehicles daily Sathorn-Naradhiwas intersection: 83,368 vehicles daily Pathumwan intersection: 62,453 vehicles daily Ratchaprasong intersection: 56,235 vehicles daily Pratunam intersection: 68,473 vehicles daily For context, after London introduced a congestion charge in 2003, traffic reduced by 15%, bringing in 1.2 billion pounds (about 50.33 billion baht) and cutting carbon emissions by 16%. Milan saw similar benefits in 2012, with a 12% drop in traffic, a 48% increase in public transport use, and a 15% reduction in emissions. Bangkok officials hope to see these positive results in the near future, creating a more sustainable and less congested city. -- 2025-02-10

Bold Attempted Taxi Theft Ends in Crash on Thai Highway Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In an unexpected turn of events early this morning, a man tried to steal a taxi during a trip to Nakhon Ratchasima, leading to a collision with a container truck. The incident unfolded at 5:30 a.m. on February 10th, drawing police attention to CCTV footage in search of the suspect. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351388-bold-attempted-taxi-theft-ends-in-crash-on-thai-highway/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In an unexpected turn of events early this morning, a man tried to steal a taxi during a trip to Nakhon Ratchasima, leading to a collision with a container truck. The incident unfolded at 5:30 a.m. on February 10th, drawing police attention to CCTV footage in search of the suspect. Officers from Nong Khae Police Station in Saraburi province rushed to Phahonyothin Road’s kilometre marker 95, where they found a wrecked white GAC taxi from Bangkok's Kan Kanaphisek Taxi Cooperative. The crash blocked traffic as emergency services worked at the scene. The taxi driver, known only as Tua, suffered minor head injuries and received immediate medical attention. Meanwhile, the 38-year-old truck driver, Somkiat, from Nakhon Ratchasima, reported merely a scratched bumper on his vehicle. According to Tua, the trouble began after he was hired for a fare initially set at 3,000 baht (US$90) but negotiated to 2,600 baht (US$77), to take a passenger from Rama 2 to another mall in Nakhon Ratchasima. Mid-journey, his passenger declared his plan to commandeer the taxi, instructing Tua to exit. Tua attempted to delay by stating he needed to charge the car, but the suspect grabbed the steering wheel, resulting in the crash. The would-be thief then fled on foot. Truck driver Somkiat, returning from Khlong Toei Port, described feeling an impact and discovering the collision upon stopping. Police have recorded the incident and are actively reviewing CCTV to capture the suspect and proceed with legal action. The event highlights both the daring nature of the theft and the importance of vigilance while on the road. -- 2025-02-10

Thai Girl Thanks Swiss Saviour a Year After Life-Changing Rescue Photo via Facebook/ โจโฉ In the heart of Thailand's Buriram province, 15-year-old Piyathida and her mother, Rattanaporn, have finally expressed gratitude to Tom, a Swiss man who saved Piyathida during a road accident last year. The mother and daughter had tirelessly sought Tom, whose prompt first aid and quick decision-making at the accident site likely saved the teenager's life. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351387-thai-girl-thanks-swiss-saviour-a-year-after-life-changing-rescue/

Photo via Facebook/ โจโฉ In the heart of Thailand's Buriram province, 15-year-old Piyathida and her mother, Rattanaporn, have finally expressed gratitude to Tom, a Swiss man who saved Piyathida during a road accident last year. The mother and daughter had tirelessly sought Tom, whose prompt first aid and quick decision-making at the accident site likely saved the teenager's life. The incident occurred when Piyathida was on a motorcycle that collided with a pickup truck, resulting in severe injuries. Tom, who witnessed the accident, rushed over from a nearby barber shop to assist, using rescue equipment to stop the bleeding and ensuring she reached the hospital as swiftly as possible. Despite the tragedy of losing her left eye, Piyathida has demonstrated remarkable resilience, embracing life with renewed vigour. Her resolve to "live to honour the foreigner’s help" highlights her gratitude. Recently, the family connected with Tom via video, finally expressing their heartfelt thanks for his bravery and kindness. The story, however, also casts light on frustrating legal proceedings. Rattanaporn revealed that the pickup driver has only compensated them 1,000 baht, an inadequate amount given the injury's gravity. Nonetheless, amid these challenges, the family remains thankful for Piyathida's survival and Tom’s life-saving intervention. -- 2025-02-10

Photos of Monk With Woman on Jomtien Beach Spark Controversy Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Controversial photos of a man dressed as a monk strolling Jomtien Beach with a woman have stirred debate about authenticity and propriety. Captured by a local on February 9, the photos show the man, estimated to be between 35 and 45, in the company of three women aged 35 to 60, as they enjoyed the sunset together. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351386-photos-of-monk-with-woman-on-jomtien-beach-spark-controversy/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Controversial photos of a man dressed as a monk strolling Jomtien Beach with a woman have stirred debate about authenticity and propriety. Captured by a local on February 9, the photos show the man, estimated to be between 35 and 45, in the company of three women aged 35 to 60, as they enjoyed the sunset together. Following their beach stroll, the group visited a roadside market, shopping for souvenirs and food items. Witnesses, including local vendors, reported seeing the monk dressed in white, walking closely with the women and snapping photos together, actions some deemed inappropriate. A vendor noted that the group bought balm for muscle pain relief and mentioned they did not speak Thai, which led to further doubts about the monk's credibility. Despite his attire suggesting religious ties, his actions raised questions within the local community. The incident quickly became a hot topic online, with many urging officials to investigate and verify whether the person is indeed a legitimate monk. -- 2025-02-10

Thailand Celebrates a Day of Clear Skies and Clean Air Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand is experiencing a rare day of fresh air as all provinces report low levels of pollution. According to the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), as of 10am, February 10, the country’s ultrafine dust levels measured between 18.4 and 30.2 micrograms per cubic meter, well below the government safety limit of 37.5. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351384-thailand-celebrates-a-day-of-clear-skies-and-clean-air/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand is experiencing a rare day of fresh air as all provinces report low levels of pollution. According to the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), as of 10am, February 10, the country’s ultrafine dust levels measured between 18.4 and 30.2 micrograms per cubic meter, well below the government safety limit of 37.5. Bangkok, known for its congestion and pollution, enjoyed the cleanest air, with PM2.5 levels dropping significantly. Surrounding areas like Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Pathum Thani, and Samut Sakhon also showed impressively low readings, all under 25 micrograms per cubic meter. Other regions, such as Ayutthaya, Chon Buri, and Phuket, rejoiced under blue skies. Meanwhile, 45 provinces, including Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, recorded moderate air quality but still remained within safe limits. PM2.5, a harmful component of air pollution, includes particles from vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions. These tiny particles can cause serious health problems as they enter deep into the lungs and bloodstream. With Thailand taking a breather from its usual haze, residents hope for more days like this. The big question remains whether cleaner air will become a sustained trend for the Land of Smiles. -- 2025-02-10

Ex-PM Abhisit Warns Legal Casinos Could Harm Thai Society Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Former Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has expressed strong opposition to the government's plan to legalize casinos and online gambling, warning of potential social consequences. Speaking at a recent seminar, Abhisit labeled gambling a major social issue causing harm to both individuals and families. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351383-ex-pm-abhisit-warns-legal-casinos-could-harm-thai-society/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Former Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has expressed strong opposition to the government's plan to legalize casinos and online gambling, warning of potential social consequences. Speaking at a recent seminar, Abhisit labeled gambling a major social issue causing harm to both individuals and families. The legalization initiative was part of the Pheu Thai Party's campaign for the 2023 elections, promising regulation and revenue collection from gambling. However, Abhisit criticized the lack of public discourse and clarity on other activities that might be legalized. Abhisit argued that online gambling, in particular, could increase household debt and crime rates, despite claims from the government that casinos would generate revenue and boost employment. He raised doubts about the potential employment benefits for Thai workers, suggesting that jobs might go to migrant workers instead. Abhisit also emphasized the need for strict law enforcement to prevent money laundering through these establishments. According to a survey from the Centre for Gambling Studies, over 50% of 8,000 people oppose the legalization. Director Nuannoi Trirat criticized the government for not holding a referendum on the issue. Despite opposition, the Cabinet approved a bill on January 13 to establish casino-entertainment complexes. The Council of State has 50 days to review the bill before it goes to the House for discussion. Pakorn Nilprapunt, Secretary General of the council, noted the government's urgency in fast-tracking this policy, sidestepping the need for a referendum given its parliamentary approval during the Pheu Thai campaign. -- 2025-02-10

New Jurassic Film Set to Boost Southern Thailand Tourism Photo via Reddit/r/JurassicPark by Abi_Jurassi Tourism operators in southern Thailand are eagerly anticipating the release of the new Jurassic World Rebirth film, expected to attract tourists all year round. This enthusiasm has sparked discussions on how to manage the upcoming influx of visitors effectively. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351381-new-jurassic-film-set-to-boost-southern-thailand-tourism/

Photo via Reddit/r/JurassicPark by Abi_Jurassi Tourism operators in southern Thailand are eagerly anticipating the release of the new Jurassic World Rebirth film, expected to attract tourists all year round. This enthusiasm has sparked discussions on how to manage the upcoming influx of visitors effectively. The movie’s trailer showcases stunning locations in Krabi and Trang, such as Koh Kradan and Khao Phanom Bencha National Park. With a July release date, this has caught the attention of both domestic and international audiences, including families and nature enthusiasts. Kasmaporn Limpanapongthep, President of the Krabi Hotel Association, highlighted that Krabi is no stranger to movie fame, previously hosting shoots for The Hangover Part II and F9 The Fast Saga. Kasmaporn forecasts a 10% rise in hotel bookings starting in July, traditionally a low season, thanks to the film’s allure. Krabi, offering between 10,000 and 20,000 accommodations, tends to have a 50-60% occupancy rate around this time. The film, featuring less-discovered areas like Ao Luek and Ban Bakan village, is likely to draw explorers to these new spots. With Krabi’s dedication to sustainable tourism, promoting eco-friendly travel remains a priority. During filming last year, hotels experienced an uptick in bookings, with luxury hotels hosting stars and budget hotels accommodating production crews. Kasmaporn also proposed marketing the film in tandem with the upcoming Jurassic World: The Experience attraction in Bangkok, launching mid-year. A movie festival is slated for February 15-16 at the Krabi Maritime Resort to educate locals on tourism opportunities in film. Phithakphong Chaikhot, of the Trang Tourist Association, noted the film's potential to put Trang on the global map, despite it having fewer hotels than Krabi. Local operators must plan carefully to manage increased tourist numbers while maintaining the area’s peaceful charm. To handle the expected rise in travelers, Trang’s agencies are urged to enhance transport links and expand Trang airport beyond its current six daily domestic flights. Most visitors during the high season arrive from southern border provinces or Malaysia via Hat Yai, presenting an opportunity to boost the local economy through tourism. -- 2025-02-10

200,000-Year-Old Hyena Fossils Found in Krabi Cave Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A remarkable discovery of hyena fossils estimated to be over 200,000 years old has been made in a cave in Krabi, Thailand. This finding suggests that the area, now covered in dense rainforests, was once a savannah. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351380-200000-year-old-hyena-fossils-found-in-krabi-cave/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A remarkable discovery of hyena fossils estimated to be over 200,000 years old has been made in a cave in Krabi, Thailand. This finding suggests that the area, now covered in dense rainforests, was once a savannah. On February 9, Assistant Professor Dr. Kantapon Suraprasit from Chulalongkorn University led a team, including the Krabi Cave Lovers Club, on an exploration in To Chong Cave in the Sai Thai subdistrict. The team unearthed fossilized teeth and bones from animals such as hyenas, orangutans, forest deer, porcupines, boars, and cattle. While some remains still need cleaning and analysis, preliminary studies indicate that these fossils are from the late Lower Pleistocene to the early Late Pleistocene, dating back around 80,000 to 200,000 years. The hyena fossils represent the furthest south these animals have been recorded in Southeast Asia. Past fossil studies in Krabi, including isotopic analysis, have shown the environment resembled a savannah, punctuated by dense forests. This habitat allowed mammals to migrate across different landmasses. Researchers believe the hyenas ended up in southern Krabi due to shifts in vegetation patterns during the Pleistocene era. Today, hyenas are only found in the savannahs of Africa. This research provides insights into historical climate shifts and environmental changes, crucial for understanding our planet's ongoing transformation. -- 2025-02-10

Massive Drug Bust: 4 Traffickers Killed, 195kg Ice, 1M Pills Seized Photo via KhaoSod In a dramatic clash in Chiang Mai's Mae Ai district, four members of a drug ring were killed, leading to the major seizure of over 100 kilograms of crystal meth and one million meth pills. The incident unfolded on February 8th near Ban Pang Nok, during a checkpoint operation by the 3206th Ranger Company under the Third Army Region’s Operations Centre. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351379-massive-drug-bust-4-traffickers-killed-195kg-ice-1m-pills-seized/

Photo via KhaoSod In a dramatic clash in Chiang Mai's Mae Ai district, four members of a drug ring were killed, leading to the major seizure of over 100 kilograms of crystal meth and one million meth pills. The incident unfolded on February 8th near Ban Pang Nok, during a checkpoint operation by the 3206th Ranger Company under the Third Army Region’s Operations Centre. Despite the intense gunfire, no officers were hurt. However, investigators delayed probing the site until daylight for safety reasons. On February 9th, authorities uncovered 13 modified backpacks filled with 195 kilograms of crystal meth, alongside weapons and communication devices. Three traffickers were found dead, and all evidence was transferred for further investigation by the Mae Ai district police. Later that day, at another scene in Ban Na Mae Oon, a deadly skirmish with the 3201st Ranger Company injured Sergeant Jakrin Moolkum, who was hit by shrapnel but is now stable. At this location, officials found one deceased trafficker and seized six modified backpacks containing 1,040,000 meth pills, a homemade rifle, and a grenade. The haul was handed over to local police for legal action. -- 2025-02-10

Thailand Rolls Out Free Condoms to Teens for Safe Valentine’s Picture courtesy of Planned Parenthood In a significant move, the Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office in Thailand has announced a new initiative from the Department of Disease Control: free condoms for teenagers. This effort, launched on Valentine’s Day, is designed to emphasize the importance of safe sex and make sexual health resources more accessible to teens and young adults. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351378-thailand-rolls-out-free-condoms-to-teens-for-safe-valentine’s/

Picture courtesy of Planned Parenthood In a significant move, the Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office in Thailand has announced a new initiative from the Department of Disease Control: free condoms for teenagers. This effort, launched on Valentine’s Day, is designed to emphasize the importance of safe sex and make sexual health resources more accessible to teens and young adults. Throughout February, the Ministry of Public Health and its partners are running the "Love, You Can Choose: Youth Choices for SAFE SEX" campaign. This initiative is intended to help young people enjoy romance without the risks. Key Features of the Campaign: Protection Access: Free condoms are available at health service units and through the Paotang app. Government hospitals also offer Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) medications. Counseling Services: Teenagers can receive advice from counselors on everything from HIV screening to contraception. For questions, the hotline 1663 and LINE Chat Bot @teen_club are available. Easy HIV Testing: Youths aged 15-24 can access free, stress-free HIV tests twice a year without the need for parental consent if they're over 18. Rapid Treatment: Those diagnosed with HIV receive immediate antiretroviral therapy, ensuring support regardless of their financial situation. Despite these proactive measures, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) remain a concern for Thai youths aged 15-24. Data reveals a worrying trend with Bangkok seeing infection rates more than double over five years. Syphilis, gonorrhea, and genital warts are the most prevalent, alongside 1,095 new HIV cases and 1,744 related deaths in 2024 among this age group. Thailand's government recognizes that rising STD rates are linked to unsafe sexual practices. Through this initiative, they aim to promote prevention with a touch of humor, encouraging a love life that's safe and fulfilling. For the latest updates on this campaign, visit the AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Disease Division’s website throughout February. -- 2025-02-10

Violent Parents Banned After Playground Assault Caught on CCTV - video A disturbing incident at a local playground has drawn widespread attention after a Facebook user shared shocking CCTV footage. The video shows a couple assaulting a young girl who accidentally bumped into their child while playing. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351375-violent-parents-banned-after-playground-assault-caught-on-cctv-video/

A disturbing incident at a local playground has drawn widespread attention after a Facebook user shared shocking CCTV footage. The video shows a couple assaulting a young girl who accidentally bumped into their child while playing. The altercation occurred on February 9. The young girl accidentally collided with the couple’s child but immediately tried to help them up. However, the parents reacted aggressively. The mother slapped the girl on her back, and the father kicked her. The frightened girl apologized and quickly left the scene. In response, the playground's management has banned the parents, calling their behavior unacceptable. They posted a message expressing disappointment and highlighting the girl's lack of intent to harm, noting that she was already apologetic for the accident. The girl’s parents have been informed, and it's suggested that the couple could face further consequences for their actions. The playground emphasized its commitment to a safe environment and vowed not to tolerate such behavior from any customers. The incident has sparked significant online outrage, with many condemning the parents' violent actions and sharing the video across social media platforms. -- 2025-02-10

Tourist's Airport Encounter with Monks Charms Thai Social Media Photo via TikTok/ @thibo_fockenoy A tourist from abroad became a social media sensation in Thailand after sharing his light-hearted mishap with two monks at an airport. The incident was captured in a TikTok video posted by user @thibo_fockenoy last week. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351373-tourists-airport-encounter-with-monks-charms-thai-social-media/

Photo via TikTok/ @thibo_fockenoy A tourist from abroad became a social media sensation in Thailand after sharing his light-hearted mishap with two monks at an airport. The incident was captured in a TikTok video posted by user @thibo_fockenoy last week. In the video, the tourist, wanting a photo with the monks, mistakenly raised his arms as if to hug them—a gesture that is not customary with monks. The monks, maintaining their composure, gently held his hands to prevent the hug, leading to an amusing scene. The tourist, realizing his mistake, promptly apologized, and the monks graciously accepted. His caption read, “Very loving people, though. #thailand #travel #travelhacks #asia.” He also added a note, “Pro tip: Don’t touch monks.” The video amused many Thai TikTok users, who left playful comments: "You hug monks like a friend, lol." "Monk bro!" "Both the monks and the foreigner look shocked at the same time. Lovely!" "I love how the monk on the right is holding his hand." This light-hearted cultural clash charmed viewers, highlighting both the tourist’s good-natured intent and the monks' tolerance. -- 2025-02-10

Mystery Blaze at Phuket Resort Under Police Investigation Pictures courtesy of Phuket News Phuket City Police are investigating a fire that broke out at the Peach Hill Resort in Karon on February 7th. The blaze started in a storage room on the fourth floor and prompted a rapid response from local police and fire services, who arrived at the scene shortly after the alarm was raised around 6 p.m. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351370-mystery-blaze-at-phuket-resort-under-police-investigation/

Pictures courtesy of Phuket News Phuket City Police are investigating a fire that broke out at the Peach Hill Resort in Karon on February 7th. The blaze started in a storage room on the fourth floor and prompted a rapid response from local police and fire services, who arrived at the scene shortly after the alarm was raised around 6 p.m. The fire was first reported to Police Lieutenant Colonel Charas Lempan, who urgently informed Chief of Karon Police, Colonel Khundet Na Nongkhai, along with Deputy Superintendent of Investigation, Lieutenant Colonel Wivat Chamnankit. Thanks to quick actions from hotel staff armed with fire extinguishers, the flames were contained, preventing further spread. Firefighters from both Karon and Patong Municipalities arrived with six fire engines and swiftly extinguished the fire. The fire affected 21 rooms on the second floor, which suffered smoke and heat damage. Fortunately, all guests evacuated safely, with no injuries or fatalities reported. Authorities are now investigating the incident, keen to uncover the cause of the fire. As tourists breathe a sigh of relief, police continue to search for clues among the charred remains. -- 2025-02-10