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Workers Protest at Government House Over Unpaid Wages File photo for reference only On November 12, hundreds of workers gathered in front of Government House to protest delays in wage payments. Around 10,000 workers have not been paid for the past eight months due to subcontractors involved in a clean fuel project in Chon Buri. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343461-workers-protest-at-government-house-over-unpaid-wages/

On November 12, hundreds of workers gathered in front of Government House to protest delays in wage payments. Around 10,000 workers have not been paid for the past eight months due to subcontractors involved in a clean fuel project in Chon Buri. Representatives from 28 firms in the Federation of Subcontractors submitted a petition to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The petition was received by Justice Minister Police Colonel Tawee Sodsong and Somkid Chueakong, Deputy Secretary-General to the Prime Minister for Political Affairs. Thitapat Reewatpatthananan, the federation’s secretary, explained that the main contractor, a group including Petrofac South East Asia Pte Ltd, Saipem Singapore Pte Ltd, and Samsung E&A (Thailand) Co Ltd, was hired by Thai Oil for the Clean Fuel Project (CFP) in Si Racha district. However, they have not paid the subcontractors for their work on the oil refinery, which is worth billions of baht. The subcontractors have completed their work from February until now without receiving due payment, affecting over 10,000 workers' livelihoods. The issue is further complicated by the subcontractors’ financial difficulties and contracts that force them to continue without payment. Some subcontractors risk facing lawsuits if they halt operations due to non-payment, according to Thitapat. Thitapat stated, “We ask the government to step in and ease the burden of our 10,000 workers who have gone without pay for eight months.” File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-13

Unprecedented Worm Invasion Alarms Phuket Villa 3 Residents Photo: The Thaiger Residents of Phuket Villa 3, a housing estate in Wichit, were left bewildered and alarmed yesterday as an unexpected swarm of "norn pradu" worms blanketed their community. The unusual worm invasion swiftly spread across the public park, covering roads, infiltrating playgrounds and even breaching some homes. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343460-unprecedented-worm-invasion-alarms-phuket-villa-3-residents/

Residents of Phuket Villa 3, a housing estate in Wichit, were left bewildered and alarmed yesterday as an unexpected swarm of "norn pradu" worms blanketed their community. The unusual worm invasion swiftly spread across the public park, covering roads, infiltrating playgrounds and even breaching some homes. Locals discovered this torrent of worms, measuring about 2 to 3 centimetres each, early yesterday morning and the situation escalated throughout the day. The breadth of the invasion sparked a wave of concern amongst the community, particularly for families whose children frequently visit the local park. Local vendor, Nit, noticed the anomaly at approximately 5:30am. Her early attempts to curtail the infestation were to no avail as the number of worms grew exponentially as the day wore on. Turning to village leaders for assistance, Nit voiced her fear about the expanding reach of the worm population, particularly in relation to the safety of the area's children. Residents now anxiously anticipate action from local authorities. The office of Wichit Municipality has been made aware of the situation and residents now rely upon them to guide the community and hopefully provide a swift resolution. This unusual predicament serves as a startling reminder of the unpredictability nature can bring, as this usually quiet residential area confronts its wriggly invasion. Photo: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-13

Bangkok's Air Quality Hits Red Alert: Hazardous PM2.5 Levels in 49 Districts File photo for reference only As dawn broke over Thailand's capital today, an invisible foe silently blanketed the city; hazardous levels of PM2.5 atmospheric pollutants crept across 49 of Bangkok's districts. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) promptly rang alarm bells, cautioning residents about the health threatening pollution levels surpassing standard safety limits. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343458-bangkoks-air-quality-hits-red-alert-hazardous-pm25-levels-in-49-districts/

As dawn broke over Thailand's capital today, an invisible foe silently blanketed the city; hazardous levels of PM2.5 atmospheric pollutants crept across 49 of Bangkok's districts. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) promptly rang alarm bells, cautioning residents about the health threatening pollution levels surpassing standard safety limits. This ominous revelation, reported at 7am, came as the GISTDA released data collated from cutting-edge satellite technology through their Check Dust application. Disturbingly, it revealed that the air residents inhaled across all but one of Bangkok's districts fell profoundly into a red zone, indicating severe pollution levels detrimental to individual health. Only the district of Nong Chok somewhat escaped, sitting in an orange zone that, while healthier, still poses significant concerns. The upshot? Everyone was advised to sport masks outside, limiting exposure to potentially respiratory disease-inducing air. Always on the side of caution, GISTDA also pointed the public towards their Check Dust application to get real-time updates on air quality and PM2.5 levels. The app, available on both iOS and Android platforms, empowers people to keep tabs on air quality, irrespective of their location. In a parallel narrative, Bangkok has recently witnessed a startling spike in PM2.5 pollution levels. This surge led to 35 regions registering unhealthy air quality, a move that had City Hall bustling. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) initiated immediate warnings, aiming to arm residents in their battle against an enemy as common as air—literally. PM2.5, a term for ultra-fine dust particles that can lodge deep into our lungs, had soared past the safe threshold of 37.5 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³) in various parts of Bangkok, according to data from AirBKK. Several districts, including Nong Khaem, Thon Buri, Klong Sam Wa, and Thawi Watthana endured severe pollution levels, plunging them into the range marked by the city as severely polluted. Even the Dusit area nudged past the safe limit. In these 35 vicinities, PM2.5 levels tipped over the brink, earning them an unwanted orange status on the pollution monitor. The rest of Bangkok, meanwhile, experienced only marginally better air quality—remaining firmly in the grip of moderate pollution. As the city continues its struggle for breathable air, here's a thought—against this silent adversary, every breath counts. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-13

Chiang Mai Tightens Regulation on Sky Lanterns Ahead of Yi Peng Festival File photo for reference only The Thai city of Chiang Mai has amplified safety protocols surrounding the annual release of sky lanterns during the forthcoming Yi Peng Festival. Authorities have reinforced strict limitations in specific high-risk zones to ensure unhampered air traffic and public safety. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343457-chiang-mai-tightens-regulation-on-sky-lanterns-ahead-of-yi-peng-festival/

The Thai city of Chiang Mai has amplified safety protocols surrounding the annual release of sky lanterns during the forthcoming Yi Peng Festival. Authorities have reinforced strict limitations in specific high-risk zones to ensure unhampered air traffic and public safety. Deputy Governor of Chiang Mai, Siwa Thamikanont, in collaboration with local officials and the Chiang Mai Provincial Industry Office, are working closely with lantern vendors to ensure stringent adherence to safety principles. Regular inspections at key locations have been set in motion as part of the city's preparedness for this year's Yi Peng Festival. "Our foremost commitment is to the safety of the public during the festival," Siwa reassured. Authorities are educating local lantern vendors on the importance of these protective measures which include designated air safety zones where the release of sky lanterns is strictly off-limits. Particular areas, such as all subdistricts within Mueang Chiang Mai and Hang Dong and specific subdistricts in other areas like Saraphi, San Sai, and San Pa Tong, fall within these designated zones owing to their proximity to aviation routes. In areas beyond these designated zones, prior approval is required from district officials to release lanterns, a process that must start 30 days in advance. A 2020 provincial ruling stipulates that lanterns can only be sent skyward on two specific days, between 7pm and 1am. Constructed from natural materials, their sizes must also meet specified standards. Unauthorized releases could result in severe penalties, including up to five years imprisonment and a fine of up to 200,000 baht. These repercussions escalate if a lantern causes a fire. Chiang Mai authorities are attempting to weave a delicate balance between maintaining traditional observances and ensuring public safety and smooth air traffic. The spectacle of myriad lanterns lighting up the night sky continues to attract both local and international attention, hence necessitating additional safety measures to mitigate potential accidents this Yi Peng Festival. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-13

Endeavour and Error: Thai Man Finds Meth 'Boost' to Support Family Backfires File photo for reference only In a curious incident that unfolded today, a 43-year-old Thai man was taken into custody for possessing methamphetamine (meth). The man, identified only as Anek, claimed he was using the drug to improve his work capacity and, in turn, support his family and ageing mother. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343456-endeavour-and-error-thai-man-finds-meth-boost-to-support-family-backfires/

In a curious incident that unfolded today, a 43-year-old Thai man was taken into custody for possessing methamphetamine (meth). The man, identified only as Anek, claimed he was using the drug to improve his work capacity and, in turn, support his family and ageing mother. The saddening affair began when the Amphawa Police Station in Samut Songkhram started receiving complaints about meth sales in the Tha Kha subdistrict. Police Colonel Phetkla Thaweekarn promptly assembled a team led by Deputy Police Lieutenant Somchai Kongkanon to probe the matter, resulting in Anek's arrest. During the subsequent search operation, police discovered 48 meth pills neatly tucked away in a ziplock bag, concealed in a backpack tethered to an unregistered motorcycle. Intensified searches at Anek's residence yielded only drug paraphernalia, a finding that led to his grilling at the Amphawa Police Station. Anek, working as a coconut picker, explained his predicament, stating his impelling need for substantial income to look after his family, particularly his 74-year-old mother. He conceded to having procured meth at 20 baht per pill, which he insisted were solely for personal use to amplify his stamina and work output. “I only bought them for my personal use to work harder,” Anek stated, dismissing allegations of drug distribution. Despite his claims, the police remained unpersuaded, considering the evidence compiled during their operation. Anek was charged with possession of a Category 1 narcotic and set for a legal roller-coaster. Meanwhile, local law enforcement is urging the public to report any suspicious activities in their bid to tackle the drug menace more effectively, fostering a climate of cooperation between the community and the police force. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-13

Thailand Celebrates First Thai Fruit Recognised as GI Product in Japan File photo for reference only Huai Mun Pineapple, a tropical fruit native to Thailand, has been registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) product in Japan, marking a landmark stride in the Asian country's agricultural sector. As disclosed by Thailand’s Deputy Minister of Commerce, Naphinthorn Srisampan, this unprecedented development comes after fruitful negotiations with Yoichi Watanabe, Japan's Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343455-thailand-celebrates-first-thai-fruit-recognised-as-gi-product-in-japan/

Huai Mun Pineapple, a tropical fruit native to Thailand, has been registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) product in Japan, marking a landmark stride in the Asian country's agricultural sector. As disclosed by Thailand’s Deputy Minister of Commerce, Naphinthorn Srisampan, this unprecedented development comes after fruitful negotiations with Yoichi Watanabe, Japan's Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries. This recognition places the Huai Mun Pineapple as the first Thai fruit to achieve a GI status in Japan, showcasing the excellent quality attributed to its geographical origin. The Huai Mun pineapple, revered for its dense, rich honey-toned flesh, sweet aroma, and high nutritional value, is an enticing option for Japanese consumers. Over 850 producers, with an annual production capacity of more than 180,000 tonnes, cultivate this unique variety of pineapple in Thailand, generating a market value exceeding 1.2 billion baht. "It is gratifying to see Huai Mun Pineapple being recognised in Japan, further strengthening our trade relations,”, expressed Deputy Minister Naphinthorn. Japan's pineapple market, favouring fresh and succulent pineapples, is witnessing robust growth. Despite the high domestic consumption of over 180,000 tonnes annually, including processed pineapple products, Japan relies largely on imports. Owing to an unfavourable climate for pineapple cultivation, Thailand ranks as Japan's fourth-largest supplier following the Philippines, Costa Rica, and Indonesia. During the recent visit, the Deputy Ministers explored opportunities to increase exports of Thai fruits and vegetables to Japan. They also delved into strategies that could enhance agricultural trade between the two nations, such as protecting geographical indications jointly. "The economic partnership agreement between Thailand and Japan provides a platform to negotiate additional trade benefits for agricultural products, including pineapples from Thailand,” noted Naphinthorn. While there, Naphinthorn observed operations and trade processes at the OTA Wholesale Market, Japan's largest fresh produce market. Armed with insights into space management and agricultural product auctions, the Deputy Minister expressed the potential benefits of these practices for Thai farmers and retailers. He emphasised, "Observing the operations at OTA Wholesale Market allows us to improve our agricultural marketing strategies and further expand the reach of Thai produce in Japan.” This recognition of the Huai Mun Pineapple's GI status not only verifies the product's exceptional quality but presents the gateway for other Thai agricultural products to gain traction in global markets. This development signifies immense potential for economic growth and illustrates a beneficial strengthening of Thai-Japanese trade relations. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-13

Fishing for heroes: Trang fisherman saves boys from drowning Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A heroic act unfolded recently when Witit Yanglang, a 26 year old fisherman from Trang province, courageously leapt into the sea to save two 11 year old boys from drowning. The boys, who had been playing near a pier, were rescued just in time, earning Witit widespread admiration as a hero. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343454-fishing-for-heroes-trang-fisherman-saves-boys-from-drowning/

A heroic act unfolded recently when Witit Yanglang, a 26 year old fisherman from Trang province, courageously leapt into the sea to save two 11 year old boys from drowning. The boys, who had been playing near a pier, were rescued just in time, earning Witit widespread admiration as a hero. On the day following the incident, officials, including the district chief of Hat Samran, Aram Yanakaw, and local police officers, visited Witit to express their gratitude for his brave actions. The boys, who were in Year 5 at school, were absent the day after the incident due to illness from ingesting seawater but are showing signs of recovery. The boys had been fishing near the Tase Pier with two other friends when their lack of swimming skills led to a near-tragic event. As they struggled in the water, fear prevented them from calling for help. Fortunately, Witit was working on his boat approximately 40 to 50 metres away and was alerted by his partner, who noticed the boys struggling. Witit recounted, “Yesterday, around 5.30pm, while fixing my boat’s engine, my partner saw one boy drowning, prompting another to jump in to help. However, panic set in, causing both to struggle. My partner called me to act quickly, and I didn’t hesitate.” Witit described the critical moment: “The boys were exhausted and on the verge of drowning. As I reached them, they went under, but I managed to embrace both and bring them to safety. Although they were scared, they recovered once ashore.” Drowning rescue He added that the rescue took roughly two minutes in water depths of 8 to 9 metres. Witit advised against playing in such perilous waters, citing underwater hazards and urging parents to supervise their children closely if they visit the area. He suggested safer alternatives, like playing in shallow waters along the beach, reported Khaosod. Witit reflected on his actions, saying, “When I jumped in, my only thought was to save them quickly. The recognition is nice, but knowing I helped is enough for me.” Aram, the district chief, expressed profound admiration for Witit’s bravery. He remarked, “I greatly admire the courage shown in saving the boys. I had just left the pier when I learnt about the rescue from the village head. Checking the CCTV footage, I saw the heroic act in a potentially dangerous situation.” Aram continued, “I’ve reported this valiant deed to the Trang governor, who has commended Witit. Plans are in place to honour him at the monthly provincial government meeting for his courageous act in safeguarding the lives of the two boys.” By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-13

Motorcyclist dies after running red light in Bangkok crash Picture courtesy of Matichon A tragic traffic incident occurred at the Wat Samian Nari intersection in Bangkok, where a motorcyclist ran a red light and collided with a passing pickup truck, resulting in the motorcyclist’s immediate death. The accident happened early today, November 13, at 12.30am, leaving police in the capital city to respond swiftly to the scene. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343453-motorcyclist-dies-after-running-red-light-in-bangkok-crash/

A tragic traffic incident occurred at the Wat Samian Nari intersection in Bangkok, where a motorcyclist ran a red light and collided with a passing pickup truck, resulting in the motorcyclist’s immediate death. The accident happened early today, November 13, at 12.30am, leaving police in the capital city to respond swiftly to the scene. Police Lieutenant Vichian Buntan-sen from Prachachuen Police Station received a report about the heartbreaking accident involving a motorcycle and a pickup truck at the intersection of Kamphaeng Phet 6 Road in the Chatuchak district of Bangkok. Upon arrival, along with Ruam Katanyu Foundation volunteers, they found a black pickup truck with severe damage to its front left side. Nearby, a red motorcycle lay in ruins, its front badly damaged, and a white full-face helmet was found on the ground. The rider, a young man estimated to be between 20 and 25 years old, tragically died at the scene, with no identification documents on his person. The driver of the pickup truck, 50 year old Krit, recounted the events leading up to the accident. He was driving towards Si Mum Mueang Market via Thesaban Songkhro Road and stopped at the Wat Samian Nari intersection due to a red traffic light. When the light turned green, he proceeded to drive towards Vibhavadi Road. Suddenly, a speeding motorcycle ran the red light from the opposite direction and crashed into the side of his vehicle, resulting in the motorcyclist’s death, reported KhaoSod. “I was just following the traffic rules and moving on the green light when the motorcycle came out of nowhere and hit my truck.” Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage from the intersection to gather evidence and determine the cause of the accident. The deceased has been sent to the Institute of Forensic Medicine at the Police Hospital, awaiting further action from family members. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Matichon Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-13

Shock and awe: Disabled man electrocuted in fatal fan fire Picture courtesy of Matichon A tragic incident occurred when a disabled man was electrocuted, leading to a fire that consumed him as he lay over a fan. His sister, who was upstairs, was affected by smoke inhalation. Neighbours quickly responded after hearing an explosion and seeing smoke billowing from the house. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343451-shock-and-awe-disabled-man-electrocuted-in-fatal-fan-fire/

A tragic incident occurred when a disabled man was electrocuted, leading to a fire that consumed him as he lay over a fan. His sister, who was upstairs, was affected by smoke inhalation. Neighbours quickly responded after hearing an explosion and seeing smoke billowing from the house. The police in Rattanathibet, Nonthaburi, received a report of a house fire early today, November 13, at 6am. The fire took place at a townhouse on Rattanathibet Soi 24 in Bang Kraso, Nonthaburi. Upon receiving the report, police officers, along with firefighters from Nonthaburi City Municipality, personnel from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, and forensic doctors, arrived at the scene. Inside the two-storey townhouse, the body of 62 year old Chaiporn was found on the ground floor, lying over a fan, severely burnt. Chaiporn, who was disabled, tragically succumbed to the flames. Upstairs, they found 65 year old Thanyaphat, who was once a teacher, suffering from smoke inhalation. Firefighters managed to rescue her safely from the burning house, and she was promptly taken to Phra Nang Klao Hospital. The siblings had been living in the house together without any other company. Thawin, a 49 year old neighbour, described hearing a loud explosion before noticing smoke emanating from the adjacent house. Upon entering, he attempted to extinguish the fire and discovered Thanyaphat struggling with smoke on the upper floor. Firefighters soon arrived and managed to bring her to safety. Thawin then called the police to report the incident. Another neighbour, 61 year old Pla, recounted hearing an explosion at around 5am, followed by the smell of burning electrical wires. She alerted her son to the situation, and together they saw smoke pouring out from the ground floor. Her son used water to try to douse the flames while other neighbours joined in to assist in rescuing those affected by the fire. Unfortunately, Chaiporn was already deceased on the lower floor. Following the incident, forensic officers from Nonthaburi, along with medical personnel, arrived to investigate the scene. Their preliminary examination revealed no visible injuries or signs of physical assault on the body, reported KhaoSod. It is suspected that Chaiporn was electrocuted, lost consciousness, and subsequently perished in the fire. His body was taken to the Institute of Forensic Science for a thorough autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Matichon Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-13

Spring surprise: Flooding ‘washes out’ Chiang Mai roads - video Photo courtesy of Sanook Water springs in Mueang Na, Chiang Dao, Chiang Mai have been causing unusual flooding, leading to road closures. Normally dry for six months, these springs have continuously flowed, affecting multiple areas simultaneously and disrupting local transport. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343450-spring-surprise-flooding-‘washes-out’-chiang-mai-roads-video/

Water springs in Mueang Na, Chiang Dao, Chiang Mai have been causing unusual flooding, leading to road closures. Normally dry for six months, these springs have continuously flowed, affecting multiple areas simultaneously and disrupting local transport. A TikTok user, under the account @j_khamsan, shared videos highlighting the strange phenomenon of multiple water springs in Mueang Na, Chiang Dao district, Chiang Mai province. The relentless water flow has inundated roads and agricultural lands, making them impassable for vehicles. The video footage reveals water bubbling up, flooding roads, fields, and local farms. The water level is deep yet clear, submerging some trees up to their tops. The water shows no signs of stopping, creating a significant disruption in the area. The teacher narrating the video explains that for two months, the main route through Mueang Na, Chiang Dao, has been cut off by water over a stretch nearly 1 kilometre long. Vehicles are forced to detour through Nong Khiew village to reach Rin Luang village. The water springs originate from underground and spread across several areas, with water levels deep enough to submerge tree trunks and steadily rising. Water has reached the road’s edge with no indication of receding. Some trees are submerged to their tops, with springs occurring at multiple points. The springs emerge on one side and flow to another, leading observers to a large hole where clear but potentially dangerous water continuously surfaces and collects in various locations, uncertain of what lies beneath. Additionally, responses to comments indicate that it usually takes around six months for the water to dry. Typically, such events occur every three to four years but this year the springs have been ceaseless, with water levels persistently rising. The area lacks dams or reservoirs, and there are no natural drainage routes like streams or creeks, causing water to accumulate and deepen significantly, with multiple springs appearing simultaneously, reported Sanook. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Sanook Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-13

Bone-chilling discovery: Thai couple ‘dig up’ mystery in old freezer at abandoned farm Photo via Amarin TV A Thai scrap-buying couple unearthed some mysterious bones in an old freezer they were about to purchase from an abandoned pig farm in the central province of Prachin Buri. The bones are under investigation to determine whether they belong to humans or animals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343449-bone-chilling-discovery-thai-couple-‘dig-up’-mystery-in-old-freezer-at-abandoned-farm/

A Thai scrap-buying couple unearthed some mysterious bones in an old freezer they were about to purchase from an abandoned pig farm in the central province of Prachin Buri. The bones are under investigation to determine whether they belong to humans or animals. The couple shared their shocking discovery on a Facebook group for locals in Prachin Buri. They explained that a client contacted them to sell the old freezer and asked them to inspect it. According to the couple, they went to see the freezer and opened its lid for inspection. They spotted an empty fertiliser sack inside and removed it. Unexpectedly, underneath the bag were bones. The couple was convinced they were human bones. They decided not to buy the freezer and immediately left the scene before sharing the story with the online community. Their post garnered attention from netizens, leading Thai media outlets to interview the couple. Following an interview with ThaiRath, the couple revealed that the client who wanted to sell the freezer contacted them by phone. They tried to ask for a Facebook or LINE account but the client refused to provide either, insisting on communicating solely by phone. The client arranged a meeting with them in the Ban Phra sub-district. Upon arrival, they met the client, who was waiting for them on his motorcycle. The client asked them to follow him, and they later arrived at the abandoned pig farm. Owner remains unidentified After agreeing on the price, the couple requested to check inside the freezer and discovered the bones, as they shared online. They found multiple pieces of bone but did not find a skull, so could not confirm whether they belonged to humans. They questioned the client about the bones but he claimed that he was not the owner of the farm or the freezer. The client said he was just a caretaker and could not tell the couple who owned the farm or the freezer. The couple decided not to buy the freezer, fearing further complications and left the farm. However, some suspicious incidents occurred with them. A speaker they were using in the car suddenly fell off its location, shocking the couple. They believed the incident was related to the spirit of the soul in the freezer and planned to make merit for it. On November 12, Mueang Prachin Buri Police Station officers and relevant officials raided the farm to investigate the bones. Officials found two sacks with blood stains and 67 pieces of bone in the freezer. Forensic science officers concluded from their initial investigation that the bones were from animals, not humans. The farm caretaker, or the couple’s client, expressed his belief that the bones were from pigs, as the place was previously a pig farm. Nevertheless, officers will collect all of the bones and related evidence for further investigation to confirm their origin. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Amarin TV Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-13

Thailand plans 14 new floating solar farms to boost renewable energy Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is pushing forward with the development of 14 new floating solar farm projects as part of its strategic efforts to increase renewable energy production. These projects, with a combined capacity of 2,656 megawatts, are set to be constructed on the reservoirs of seven hydroelectric dams under the latest national power development plan (PDP) for 2024. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343448-thailand-plans-14-new-floating-solar-farms-to-boost-renewable-energy/

The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is pushing forward with the development of 14 new floating solar farm projects as part of its strategic efforts to increase renewable energy production. These projects, with a combined capacity of 2,656 megawatts, are set to be constructed on the reservoirs of seven hydroelectric dams under the latest national power development plan (PDP) for 2024. EGAT operates nine dams and has outlined plans for 16 floating solar farm projects, totalling a capacity of 2,725 megawatts, according to the PDP. To date, two of these projects have been completed at two separate dam locations. The PDP serves as the long-term blueprint established by energy officials to guide the development of the country’s power supply. Covering the period from 2024 to 2037, the plan aims to significantly increase the share of energy derived from renewable resources to 51% by the end of the cycle, rising from 20% at the close of 2023. Concurrently, it seeks to decrease reliance on fossil-fuel-based power plants, reducing their contribution to 45% by 2037, down from 70% last year. Thidade Eiamsai, deputy governor of power plant development and renewable energy at EGAT, stated that the organisation is committed to expediting the development of the 14 floating solar farms. These are to be located at Bhumibol, Sirikit, Srinakarin, Vajiralongkorn, Chulabhorn, Bang Lang, and Rajjaprabha dams. EGAT’s inaugural floating solar farm became operational in December 2021 at the Sirindhorn Dam in Ubon Ratchathani, with a capacity of 45 megawatts. A second facility, generating 24 megawatts, was launched at the Ubolratana Dam in Khon Kaen, beginning operations in March 2024. Looking ahead, EGAT plans to commence construction of three additional floating solar farms early next year, with a combined output capacity of 348 megawatts. The most substantial of these projects, boasting a capacity of 158 megawatts, will be developed at Bhumibol Dam. Solar farms Another, with a capacity of 140 megawatts, is slated for Srinakarin Dam, while the third, with a 50 megawatts capacity, will be situated at Vajiralongkorn Dam. The total development cost for these projects is estimated at 13 billion baht (US$374 million), with operations expected to start between 2026 and 2027. Egat is in the process of preparing a proposal for the Energy Ministry’s approval, which will include plans to connect the generated electricity to the national grid. The 2024 PDP maintains the same capacity targets for floating solar farms as were set in the 2018 PDP, comprising a total of 2,725 megawatts from 16 projects across nine dams, reported Bangkok Post. Before the revision of the 2018 PDP, EGAT had envisioned a long-term expansion of its floating solar farm capacity to approximately 5,000 megawatts over the subsequent two decades. However, this ambitious plan did not receive the necessary approval to proceed. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-13

Bangkok to beat the gridlock with new congestion charge Photo courtesy of The Nation Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit revealed that Bangkok could soon join cities like London and Singapore with a congestion charge aimed at unclogging the city’s crowded streets and reducing pollution. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343404-bangkok-adapts-london-model-for-traffic-congestion-fees/?do=findComment&comment=19377691