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Photo courtesy of The Nation The Ministry of Industry has launched an urgent investigation into the illegal importation of over 10,000 tonnes of radioactive waste inaccurately labelled as zinc concentrate. This material, tainted with hazardous caesium-137, was clandestinely brought into Thailand, raising serious concerns about the nation’s waste management protocols. Industry Minister Akanat Promphan disclosed the investigation on March 25, following discovery of counterfeit documentation utilised to evade customs. The focus is on KMC 1953 Co., accused of importing the hazardous material from various countries between July 2024 and January 2025. Preliminary findings reveal the use of 33 falsified documents by the company to mislead customs officials. Caesium-137, a dangerous byproduct from iron smelting, demands careful handling and strict adherence to Thai law and international controls, such as the Basel Convention, governing hazardous waste. Under Thailand's regulations, specific authorisation from the Department of Industrial Works is mandatory for such imports, which KMC 1953 Co. lacked. Further investigation into how these imports occurred highlights the falsification of documents issued by the Chon Buri Provincial Industrial Office, allowing the import of caesium-137 disguised as “red dust.” Minister Akanat expressed concerns about potential involvement of officials with the company, committing to a comprehensive probe to hold accountable those responsible. As authorities unravel the extent of the breach, efforts are underway to assess any further illegal imports threatening public and environmental safety. The Ministry of Industry is determined to rectify this serious protocol violation, pledging necessary measures to safeguard both public health and the environment from such hazardous incidents, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-26

Anti-Corruption Raid Arrests Two in Veterans’ Hospital Drug Scam Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a major crackdown on a fraudulent drug network linked to a veterans’ hospital, authorities arrested two central figures today, March 26. The early morning operation spanned 18 locations across Bangkok, Lop Buri, Prachin Buri, and Chon Buri. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355866-anti-corruption-raid-arrests-two-in-veterans’-hospital-drug-scam/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a major crackdown on a fraudulent drug network linked to a veterans’ hospital, authorities arrested two central figures today, March 26. The early morning operation spanned 18 locations across Bangkok, Lop Buri, Prachin Buri, and Chon Buri. The raid, led by Police Major Generals Charunkiet Pankhaew and Prasong Chalermphon, along with Police Colonel Permwut Patumrach, was supported by the National Anti-Corruption Commission and the Office of the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission. The task force targeted those involved in unlawfully distributing hospital drugs to external buyers. Kanyarat, a retired government official, was the first key figure apprehended in the Kiakkai area. Arrested under a warrant from the Central Criminal Court, the charges against her include dereliction of duty and embezzlement. She is accused of leading the network, sourcing individuals from Lop Buri to collect drugs from the hospital. These drugs were exchanged with the network’s coordinators for a commission of 10% and a payment of 1,500 baht per participant. Brinda, a specialist doctor at the veterans’ hospital, was the second significant arrest. Found in Lat Phrao 71, Brinda allegedly exaggerated patients’ conditions in prescriptions to aid the fraudulent drug sales. This scheme flourished since 2018, with Brinda facilitating drug acquisition for resale. The operation followed complaints from General Dechnitith Lueangngamkham, director of the War Veterans Organisation, highlighting the prolonged malpractice. An investigation revealed over 40 million baht entered Kanyarat’s account from 2018 to 2025, indicating financial damages around 80 million baht. Kanyarat and Brinda remain in custody, undergoing questioning by anti-corruption officials as the investigation continues, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-26

Transport Minister Denies Secret Multi-Billion Rail Deal Allegations Photo courtesy of Thailand Construction and Engineering News Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has categorically denied opposition claims that the government is secretly negotiating high-value agreements related to the high-speed rail project linking Bangkok’s main airports. The allegations surfaced during a censure debate led by Surachet Pravinvongvuth of the People’s Party, targeting Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's administration. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355863-transport-minister-denies-secret-multi-billion-rail-deal-allegations/

Photo courtesy of Thailand Construction and Engineering News Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has categorically denied opposition claims that the government is secretly negotiating high-value agreements related to the high-speed rail project linking Bangkok’s main airports. The allegations surfaced during a censure debate led by Surachet Pravinvongvuth of the People’s Party, targeting Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's administration. Surachet accused the government of manipulating the original contract with Asia Era One, a consortium spearheaded by the CP Group, signed on October 24, 2019. According to him, these amendments could unfairly favour transport investors, with a proposed contract modification involving a 159.8 billion baht concession. Additionally, Surachet alleged plans to allocate significant state-owned plots in Bangkok and Si Racha to the concessionaire for development, which he argued could lead to government losses. Suriya refuted these claims, clarifying that no finalised plans exist and highlighted ongoing reviews by state agencies like the Office of the Attorney General. The minister distanced himself from any contract-related delays, blaming them on previous administrations. The pandemic exacerbated issues, causing Asia Era One to seek adjustments due to dwindling passenger numbers. The current slow progress is attributed to land acquisition delays necessary for the project's continuation. According to Suriya, further contract assessments are underway, and possible cabinet approval could herald project commencement by mid-year. Despite setbacks, officials aim to launch the rail line by 2029 or 2030, marking a crucial transport milestone for Thailand, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-26

Bangkok Gears Up for 2028 Formula One Grand Prix with New Plans Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand is on track to host a Formula One (F1) race in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district by 2028, following a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) and F1. This announcement comes after F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali’s meeting with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to discuss the potential Grand Prix. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355861-bangkok-gears-up-for-2028-formula-one-grand-prix-with-new-plans/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand is on track to host a Formula One (F1) race in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district by 2028, following a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) and F1. This announcement comes after F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali’s meeting with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to discuss the potential Grand Prix. Dr Kongsak Yodmanee, SAT Governor, unveiled the MOU at a recent press briefing, expressing optimism about Chatuchak as the primary venue. “Our focus is Chatuchak first. If all proceeds smoothly, it will be pivotal for F1 and Thailand,” he noted. Alternative locations, such as other areas of Bangkok and Chon Buri, are also being considered to accommodate any logistical challenges. The project seeks to elevate Thailand's profile in global motorsport. Enthusiasm from F1 officials suggests Chatuchak could host one of the world’s most captivating races. However, organisers emphasise community support as essential. Dr Kongsak assured, “We aim to benefit all, especially locals, by mitigating environmental and noise impacts.” Details of the MOU are under wraps, yet it signifies a three-year collaboration focusing on data analysis, design, and scheduling. With engines revving and plans accelerating, Bangkok is inching closer to hosting a thrilling new chapter in the F1 saga, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-26

File photo for reference only The HCM City High People’s Court has commenced the appeals trial for Trương Mỹ Lan, the former chairwoman of Vạn Thịnh Phát Group, in one of Vietnam's largest financial fraud cases. This high-profile trial involves Lan and 27 accomplices who have been implicated in massive embezzlement and fraud schemes. Lan, now 69, originally received a life sentence for defrauding bondholders of over VNĐ30 trillion (US$1.18 billion), in addition to 12 years for money laundering and eight years for illegally transporting $4.5 billion across borders. Her case is widely noted for affecting 42,000 victims and inciting significant public unrest nationwide. To date, authorities have committed to recovering and returning fraudulent funds to the affected bondholders, having seized millions in assets associated with Lan, including real estate, shares, vehicles, and bank accounts. A compensation plan is in place, and the Department of Civil Judgment Enforcement has earmarked over VNĐ8 trillion ($315 million) for this purpose. They have also established a hotline and are coordinating with Tân Việt Securities Company to guide victims in documenting claims for compensation. Previously, Lan faced a separate trial where she was sentenced to death for embezzling $27 billion from Saigon Commercial Bank (SCB), an amount equating to 6% of Vietnam’s GDP in 2023. Although she appealed this sentence, the appeal was denied due to the substantial impacts of her actions. Under Vietnamese law, Lan could avoid execution by returning 75% of the embezzled funds and fully cooperating with legal authorities. While officially holding 5% of SCB’s shares, Lan was found to control over 90% through a network of family and associates. Her arrest was part of an intensified anti-corruption drive that Vietnam has pursued since 2021. Founded in 1992, Lan’s company, Vạn Thịnh Phát, is a major player in Vietnam’s real estate scene, reputed for owning prime properties like Times Square Saigon, Windsor Plaza Hotel, and Sherwood Residence Hotel, where Lan resided before her arrest. The appeals trial is set to continue until April 21, determining if Lan’s sentences will be upheld or modified, reported Vietnam News. -- 2025-03-25

File photo for reference only In response to a recent safety incident, Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air have officially prohibited the use of lithium-based power banks during flights. On March 21, a Hong Kong Airlines flight had to make an emergency landing due to a power bank explosion. This incident has prompted these Vietnamese carriers to tighten regulations to prevent similar events. Starting this week, passengers on both carriers cannot use power banks in-flight unless they are removed from carry-on luggage, placed visibly, and not utilized for charging devices. Previously, power banks were already banned from checked luggage due to fire risks. Passengers can carry up to 10 batteries, each with a maximum capacity of 100Wh. For power banks with 100-160Wh capacity, only two devices are allowed per passenger. Airlines now stress the importance of turning off power banks and protecting them separately to prevent accidental activation. This precaution aligns Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet with other global carriers, such as Thai Airways, Air Asia, and Air Busan, who have also restricted in-flight power bank usage to reduce fire hazards. The new guidelines reinforce passenger safety without compromising their ability to travel with necessary electronics, reported Vietnam News. -- 2025-03-25

File photo for reference only Vietnam has been named the fourth safest country in Southeast Asia, trailing only Singapore, Brunei, and Thailand, according to Numbeo's latest report. This global database, which relies on user-contributed data, evaluates safety perceptions based on factors such as public comfort walking alone at night and the prevalence of crimes like murder, robbery, and assault. With a safety index of 59.2 out of 100, Vietnam surpasses regional neighbors like the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Cambodia. This solidifies its standing as a secure destination, appealing to foreign tourists. In contrast, Singapore topped the Southeast Asian list with a safety index of 77.4, attributed to its stringent laws and low crime rate. Vietnam’s political stability and high safety levels have significantly contributed to its allure among international travelers, enhancing its reputation as a top spot for solo travel. Last year marked a strong recovery for Vietnam’s tourism sector, which welcomed 17.6 million foreign visitors, close to pre-pandemic figures. The country now aims to attract 22-23 million international tourists this year. Globally, Andorra earned the distinction of being the safest country in the world, while Venezuela was deemed the most dangerous, as per Numbeo's findings. Vietnam's commendable safety ranking emphasizes its role as a peaceful destination, attracting tourists seeking both adventure and tranquility in Southeast Asia, reported VN Expresss. -- 2025-03-25

File photo for reference only The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 6 is rolling out an innovative initiative aimed at enhancing energy access on small islands, starting with Barangay Botlog in Concepcion, Iloilo. This effort, known as the Driving Advancement, Generating Access, and Transforming Small Island Communities (DAGAT) project, focuses on the deployment of a small-scale wind turbine to supply electricity. In collaboration with local partners including the Central Philippine University, Northern Iloilo State University Affiliated Renewable Energy Center, and Concepcion town, this project highlights the region's capabilities in producing and utilizing renewable technologies. According to Keithlyn Sarah Bernardino, DOST-6 assistant director for technical operations, the project's primary target is to energize essential public infrastructure such as the barangay hall, gymnasium, church, daycare center, and street lighting, rather than individual households. The installation commenced last year with the aim of becoming fully operational within the current year. This pilot project could potentially serve as a model for similar initiatives on other small islands, showcasing effective local solutions for energy needs. Beyond energy provision, the DOST has also emphasized building community resilience through disaster risk reduction initiatives. Residents have undergone training in disaster preparedness and basic first aid, and they've developed an emergency and evacuation plan, establishing a dedicated corner for disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) essentials. This comprehensive approach reflects a commitment to sustainable development and community empowerment in Western Visayas, setting a precedent for future projects across similar rural communities, reported Philippine News Agency. -- 2025-03-25

File photo for reference only The Philippine Supreme Court has affirmed the life imprisonment sentences of Australian national Peter Gerald Scully and his Filipina accomplice, Carme Ann Alvarez, for their involvement in qualified trafficking under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003 (Republic Act 9208). This decision, originally made in November 2024, was only made public in March 2025. Scully and Alvarez each face a fine of PHP 5 million and must pay PHP 600,000 in damages for each victim. The ruling underscored that explicit pornographic evidence is not necessary for a human trafficking conviction. The pair's conviction is rooted in a 2014 incident where Alvarez enticed two minors, aged 9 and 12, with promises of food and took them to a property rented by Scully. There, the girls were given alcohol, forced to undress, photographed, and subjected to sexual exploitation. Their ordeal was documented on a laptop. After four days, the victims escaped and alerted authorities. Initially convicted by the Regional Trial Court in 2018, with the Court of Appeals upholding the decision in 2022, Scully and Alvarez appealed to the Supreme Court. They argued that their constitutional rights were violated, as they were allegedly prevented from presenting evidence, and contended that their actions did not meet the definition of trafficking. The Supreme Court rejected these claims, confirming that the elements of trafficking were present as outlined by RA 9208. The law defines trafficking to include the coercive transportation or transfer of individuals for exploitation, such as prostitution or slavery, regardless of the victim's consent. Given the victims were minors, the case was categorized as qualified trafficking, meriting a life sentence. The court also noted that the defendant's repeated absences and requests for hearing postponements led to a waiver of their right to present evidence. The Supreme Court concluded there was no violation of their constitutional rights, as opportunities to present their case had been duly granted. This verdict reinforces the Philippines' commitment to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation, reported Phil Star. -- 2025-03-25

File photo for reference only Philippine Ambassador to Washington, Jose Manuel "Babe" Romualdez, has acknowledged the growing number of undocumented Filipinos facing deportation in the US amidst President Donald Trump's intensified immigration enforcement. In an interview on March 25, Romualdez disclosed that many Filipinos are currently detained across various US states, although he withheld specific figures for confidentiality reasons. The ambassador noted that around 30 individuals had been recently reported for deportation processing, with more cases emerging as ICE continues its operations. Romualdez urged undocumented Filipinos to voluntarily return to the Philippines if legal residence in the US is unattainable, as this option potentially allows for a future return and avoids the challenging conditions of detention centers. Romualdez also highlighted the case of Lewelyn Dixon, a 64-year-old permanent US resident, who was detained despite being a green card holder for 50 years. Her legal status is under scrutiny due to her past conviction for embezzlement in 2001, though she fulfilled her penalties. The issue arose upon her recent return to the US from a vacation. Her lawyer believes she has a robust case to retain her residency, given her longstanding ties to the country. The envoy's comments spotlight the ongoing challenges faced by undocumented Filipinos in the US and underscore the importance of legal strategies and voluntary departure to mitigate the risks associated with immigration enforcement, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-03-25

Traffic Cop in Udon Thani Delivers Eighth Baby in Roadside Rescue Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a heartwarming display of dedication and skill, Police Lance Corporal Charern Chantharak transformed into a temporary midwife to assist in the delivery of a baby in Udon Thani's Mueang district. This remarkable act marked the eighth successful delivery by the traffic cop, enhancing his reputation for exceptional public service. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355755-traffic-cop-in-udon-thani-delivers-eighth-baby-in-roadside-rescue/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a heartwarming display of dedication and skill, Police Lance Corporal Charern Chantharak transformed into a temporary midwife to assist in the delivery of a baby in Udon Thani's Mueang district. This remarkable act marked the eighth successful delivery by the traffic cop, enhancing his reputation for exceptional public service. On March 24, Charern responded swiftly to a report of a woman in labour in a pickup truck at Ban Huai Market. Arriving alongside an ambulance from Udon Thani Central Hospital, he used his training to perform the emergency delivery of a baby girl, ensuring her safe arrival into the world. Charern expertly cleared the newborn's airway, employed a bulb syringe to remove amniotic fluid, and stimulated her to cry, before wrapping the infant in a cloth for warmth. Once the hospital's emergency team arrived, he handed over the baby and led the ambulance to the hospital on his motorcycle, ensuring their safe and swift journey. Community members have hailed Charern's dedication and ability to remain composed during emergencies. His actions were applauded, highlighting the compassionate and multifaceted role of police officers beyond traditional duties. Charern expressed gratitude to his colleagues and supervisors for providing a motorcycle equipped with emergency tools, enabling him to assist the community effectively. This incident not only celebrates a successful delivery but also underscores the vital role of police in community emergencies, reflected in Charern's commendable service record, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25

High-Speed Drama: Jealous Wife Pursues Alleged Mistress in Songkhla - video Photo via Channel 3 In a scene akin to an action film, the wife of a Thai school director engaged in a high-speed car chase and subsequent attack on her husband's alleged mistress in Songkhla province. Social media influencer Guntouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet shared footage of the dramatic pursuit, drawing widespread attention online. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355753-high-speed-drama-jealous-wife-pursues-alleged-mistress-in-songkhla-video/

Photo via Channel 3 In a scene akin to an action film, the wife of a Thai school director engaged in a high-speed car chase and subsequent attack on her husband's alleged mistress in Songkhla province. Social media influencer Guntouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet shared footage of the dramatic pursuit, drawing widespread attention online. The incident unfolded near the Central Mosque in Songkhla, where the director’s wife recklessly pursued her target – a 36-year-old teacher who had previously worked with the director. The confrontation began at a café where the teacher, meeting the director to discuss work matters, was accused of having an affair with him. Fearing for her safety, the teacher fled in her car, but was chased down and rammed, causing injuries. The altercation escalated as the attacker used a car part to strike the teacher's vehicle after it was stopped. Urged by the director to step out and talk, the teacher was assaulted until police intervened. This wasn't the first incident; the teacher revealed past harassment, including threats with a gun, claims dismissed by local police due to the wife’s influence in the area. Despite receiving a heart emoji from the director, the teacher denied romantic involvement, stating interactions were work-related. Seeking justice, she turned to Gun for support, leading him to pledge assistance and challenge the wife to substantiate her affair claims. The incident highlights both personal turmoil and the importance of protective measures and response efficiency from local authorities, reflecting broader issues of influence and accountability within the community, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25

Phuket Bar Association Refutes Claims of Inaction Over Lawyer Misconduct Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News The Phuket Provincial Bar Association has responded to public backlash, asserting its commitment to addressing allegations against a local lawyer accused of misconduct, including abuse, borrowing a large sum from his former girlfriend, and issuing threats. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355752-phuket-bar-association-refutes-claims-of-inaction-over-lawyer-misconduct/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News The Phuket Provincial Bar Association has responded to public backlash, asserting its commitment to addressing allegations against a local lawyer accused of misconduct, including abuse, borrowing a large sum from his former girlfriend, and issuing threats. The situation gained nationwide attention when the victim highlighted the lawyer's conduct on the TV programme Hon Krasae, leading to accusations that the bar association was shielding its member. In retort, Association President Rungnapa Phutkaew clarified that the association has not ignored these charges and that the matter is under review by the Ethics Committee - a separate body responsible for investigating misconduct. According to Rungnapa, the victim initially lodged her complaint with the National Lawyers Council in Bangkok rather than the Phuket Bar Association. While she sought advice locally, she chose to pursue her case through central channels. Rungnapa confirmed the association's assistance in expediting her complaint and providing ongoing guidance. Rungnapa addressed reports of a complaint supposedly ignored since December 18, stating that the Ethics Committee formally received the case only in February. The investigation adheres to due process, involving notifying the accused and gathering necessary evidence. She noted that the Phuket Bar Association lacks direct punitive authority, but forwards cases to the Ethics Committee which can recommend penalties, ranging from warnings to permanent disbarment. The victim had previously discussed threats and domestic violence with the association two years ago but did not file an official ethics complaint then. The association reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining legal standards and urged the public to report any lawyer misconduct through proper channels. Rungnapa assured that they stand for accountability and justice, encouraging continued vigilance against unethical behaviour. The Phuket Provincial Bar Association remains steadfast in its resolve to uphold justice and professional integrity, ensuring that any breach of conduct by lawyers is fully investigated and addressed appropriately, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25

Search Underway for Missing Man on Phuket Mountain Photo via Facebook/ มูลนิธิกุศลธรรมภูเก็ต A search operation is underway for 61-year-old Surin Yadee, who went missing on Ket Nee Mountain in Phuket on Sunday afternoon. The disappearance occurred after Surin called his wife, Tararat Payu, expressing extreme fatigue and the sensation of faintness, before the call abruptly ended. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355751-search-underway-for-missing-man-on-phuket-mountain/

Photo via Facebook/ มูลนิธิกุศลธรรมภูเก็ต A search operation is underway for 61-year-old Surin Yadee, who went missing on Ket Nee Mountain in Phuket on Sunday afternoon. The disappearance occurred after Surin called his wife, Tararat Payu, expressing extreme fatigue and the sensation of faintness, before the call abruptly ended. The couple, residents of the Bang Tao community in the Thalang district, had set out on a trek at 9am to collect fruit for a ritual they believed would assist in selling their land. During their descent, Tararat paused to rest due to exhaustion, while Surin continued ahead. The last visual contact she had was of him waving from a distance. After Surin's distress call, Tararat attempted to reach him multiple times without success, fearing he may have lost consciousness or become disoriented on the mountain. Concerned family members, aware of Surin's occasional mountain hikes, conducted an initial search to no avail, leading them to perform a spiritual ritual for guidance. The search resumed today after being paused at 4pm yesterday. Police and rescue teams, alongside Surin's family, met this morning to strategise the search effort, suspecting he might have wandered towards the Kamala district side of the mountain. Efforts are focused on exploring potential routes Surin could have taken, with hopes of finding him safe and sound. The ongoing operation reflects both community support and concern for the well-being of Surin, as rescuers and family members remain determined in their search, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25

Thailand's Land Bridge Project Gains International Interest Photo courtesy of Global Times Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to the ambitious Land Bridge megaproject, designed to connect the Gulf of Thailand with the Andaman Sea. This trillion-baht initiative is attracting significant interest from international players, particularly from China and the Middle East. Notably, Dubai Port World has expressed strong interest in participating in the bidding process. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355750-thailands-land-bridge-project-gains-international-interest/

Photo courtesy of Global Times Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to the ambitious Land Bridge megaproject, designed to connect the Gulf of Thailand with the Andaman Sea. This trillion-baht initiative is attracting significant interest from international players, particularly from China and the Middle East. Notably, Dubai Port World has expressed strong interest in participating in the bidding process. Unveiled on March 24, the project aims to enhance Thailand’s global economic competitiveness through improved maritime transport. The Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) is currently drafting the Southern Special Economic Development Zone (SEC) Bill. Available for public inspection since March 21, the bill precedes a public hearing and seminar in Bangkok and Surat Thani scheduled for next month. Feedback from these sessions will inform the bill's review by the Ministry of Transport. The government plans to submit the SEC Bill to the Cabinet in May, with the aim of parliamentary approval later this year. Once approved, the bidding process is anticipated to begin next year. The project is set to follow a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, granting the private sector a 50-year concession to oversee development and management. Key components of the Land Bridge include modernising Chumphon Port into a deep-sea facility and upgrading Ranong Port into a significant freight container hub. This transformation is expected to bolster trade links under the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) framework and enhance connections with Middle Eastern and African markets. The SEC Bill is crucial for establishing an agency tasked with development planning, land use management, and industrial zoning, facilitating the effective implementation of this significant infrastructure endeavour. With proactive international engagement and strategic planning, Thailand's Land Bridge project promises to redefine the nation's economic infrastructure landscape, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25

Thailand Faces Worsening Air Pollution: PM2.5 Levels Alarmingly High Picture courtesy of Thaipost Thailand continues to struggle with critical air pollution, as PM2.5 levels exceed safety standards in 61 provinces. According to the Pollution Control Department, stagnant air and atmospheric conditions akin to a lid are trapping pollutants, worsening air quality particularly in Bangkok and the northern regions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355749-thailand-faces-worsening-air-pollution-pm25-levels-alarmingly-high/

Picture courtesy of Thaipost Thailand continues to struggle with critical air pollution, as PM2.5 levels exceed safety standards in 61 provinces. According to the Pollution Control Department, stagnant air and atmospheric conditions akin to a lid are trapping pollutants, worsening air quality particularly in Bangkok and the northern regions. As of March 24, the 24-hour average concentration of PM2.5 particles ranged from 15 to a staggering 132.8 µg/m³ across affected areas, far surpassing the safe standard of 37.5 µg/m³. Bangkok, Pathum Thani, Chiang Mai, and many other provinces are witnessing dangerous pollution levels that pose significant health risks. Northern Thailand is particularly affected, recording levels up to 132.8 µg/m³, while northeastern areas report figures between 50.2 and 130.1 µg/m³. Central and eastern regions aren't spared either, with readings reaching up to 115.0 µg/m³. In contrast, the south maintains air quality within safe limits. Forecasts from March 25 to March 31 indicate an upward trend in PM2.5 levels, with specific increases anticipated in 17 northern provinces and parts of the northeastern and eastern regions. Bangkok's air quality is also expected to worsen. The situation has prompted calls for reduced outdoor activities and the use of protective gear, especially for those with existing health issues. Residents in severely affected areas are advised to minimise outdoor exposure and consult healthcare professionals if symptoms arise. Criticism has been levied against government responses, with allegations of ineffective measures and data manipulation. For real-time updates, residents can rely on Air4Thai.com and airbkk.com, or their respective applications, to stay informed about current air quality conditions. The persistent pollution highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies and effective governance to tackle this environmental crisis, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25