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Bangkok to beat the gridlock with new congestion charge 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. Suriya announced a six-month timeline for the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) to finalise a study identifying the best model for implementing the charge. “We’re looking at ways to ease Bangkok’s notorious traffic while generating funds to enhance our transit infrastructure.” Suriya explained that fees collected through the congestion charge would bolster an infrastructure fund, enabling the government to potentially buy back electric train projects and introduce a flat 20-baht fare across the capital. According to Suriya, this approach aims to ease commuting costs, reduce traffic jams, and cut down on air pollution, especially in the city centre. Addressing concerns, Suriya noted that over 60% of Bangkok’s public supports the congestion charge, although some residents in affected areas remain wary. To address this, he assured that city centre residents will be exempt from paying the charge. “The final details will be known once the OTP completes its study.” Transport Ministry spokesperson Kritchanon Aiyapunya revealed that Bangkok’s congestion charge model draws from success stories in London, Singapore, Stockholm, and Milan, where policies clearly define charge zones and times. London, for instance, saw a 16% drop in traffic congestion and an 18% increase in public transport use after implementing the charge, he noted. London’s AI-driven camera system records vehicle plate numbers in designated zones, with fees payable through apps or online banking. Highlighting growing acceptance, Kritchanon said, “In Stockholm, public support rose from 21% to 67% after implementation, and in London, support jumped from 39% to 54%.” The OTP, now consulting with the British government, hopes this initiative could usher in a new era for Bangkok’s traffic and transit systems, reported The Nation. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-13

File photo courtesy: Wikimedia The Thai Transport Ministry plans to implement the "London Model" to manage traffic congestion in Bangkok by introducing congestion fees in inner city areas. This move aims to reduce heavy traffic and fund public transport infrastructure. Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, also the deputy prime minister, announced on Tuesday that the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning (OTP) has been tasked with studying successful congestion fee systems from around the world. The study will focus on methods from England, Singapore, Stockholm, and Italy, examining fee rates and collection methods. The ministry anticipates completing the study by 2025. Minister Suriya highlighted that the current law does not allow the government to collect these fees, a responsibility of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). Therefore, new legislation may be required to implement this initiative. An initial ministry-run survey on social media indicated that 60% supported the congestion fee concept, though support waned due to a lack of detailed information. The ministry recognizes the need to clarify details, such as the specific areas affected and the exemptions for residents within these zones. While those living in the designated congestion areas will be exempt from fees, funds raised will be directed into an infrastructure fund managed by the Ministry of Finance. Some proceeds will support the government’s goal of reducing electric train fares to 20 baht across all routes. The London Model, bolstered by support from the UK Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions (UK PACT) project, utilises Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology to manage toll collection, reported Bangkok Post. London’s scheme covers a 21 square km area, charging £15 per day and operates on weekdays and weekends, excluding public holidays. This system has successfully decreased congestion by 16%, noted ministry spokesman Kritchanon Aiyapanya. -- 2024-11-13

Thai Hotels Alarmed by Foreign Business Practices File photo courtesy: Wikimedia The Thai hospitality industry is raising alarms about the infiltration of foreign businesses leveraging local nominees, a practice perceived as damaging to Thailand’s esteemed tourism image. The Thai Hotels Association (THA) has sounded the alarm as concerns mount that these activities could trigger detrimental price wars, particularly amongst lower-tier hotels. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343403-thai-hotels-alarmed-by-foreign-business-practices/

File photo courtesy: Wikimedia The Thai hospitality industry is raising alarms about the infiltration of foreign businesses leveraging local nominees, a practice perceived as damaging to Thailand’s esteemed tourism image. The Thai Hotels Association (THA) has sounded the alarm as concerns mount that these activities could trigger detrimental price wars, particularly amongst lower-tier hotels. Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the THA, articulated that approximately 50% of Thai hotels are uneasy about these illegal enterprises, notably Chinese-run establishments, as revealed by the association's business sentiment index for October. Higher-end hotels, though targeting distinct markets, foresee potential harm to Thailand's tourism image due to these activities, which may, in turn, depress market prices. Chaiyapatranun has urged government agencies to intensify efforts against these unlawful operations, highlighting their potential to undermine the integrity of the entire tourism sector. Hotels rated three stars or lower feel the pinch more acutely as these unauthorised competitors directly threaten them by impacting pricing and reputation. As November approaches, coinciding with peak tourist influx, occupancy rates appear buoyant yet uneven. October ended with a nationwide hotel occupancy of 57.6%, a noticeable increase from last year’s 54%. However, higher-rated hotels reported a more robust performance at 60.2% occupancy, compared to 52.7% in the lower bracket. Amidst rising visitor interest, top-tier establishments confront staff shortages, impacting service quality despite being able to host more guests. Hoteliers are calling for government training initiatives to attract crucial roles like cleaners and waiting staff, addressing labour deficits. Furthermore, the industry appeals for stable foreign exchange rates to sustain operational stability. Prompt financial aid for those affected by recent floods is also essential to ensure swift recovery during the high season. The collective efforts aim to safeguard Thailand’s tourism sector, preserving its reputable allure, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-13

Israelis in Thailand on Alert After Security Warning File photo Full Moon Party - Wikimedia Commons Israeli authorities have cautioned their citizens in Thailand to be extra careful due to reports of a potential threat targeting them. This warning comes ahead of the famous Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan this Friday. As reported by the Times of Israel, the alert stems from a possible terror attack during the event. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343402-israelis-in-thailand-on-alert-after-security-warning/

File photo Full Moon Party - Wikimedia Commons Israeli authorities have cautioned their citizens in Thailand to be extra careful due to reports of a potential threat targeting them. This warning comes ahead of the famous Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan this Friday. As reported by the Times of Israel, the alert stems from a possible terror attack during the event. The Mossad and the National Security Council in Israel issued this advice after Thai police leaked internal documents suggesting that there might be a plot against Israelis in Thailand. Koh Phangan's Full Moon Party is a significant attraction for young Israeli travellers, making this threat particularly concerning. Ynet, an Israeli news outlet, highlighted that Thai police have stepped up security measures in response to these threats, which are reportedly based on concrete intelligence. In response to these developments, the Mossad and National Security Council stated, "In recent months, Israeli security services, in cooperation with Thai security, have worked to prevent several incidents." The warning comes in the wake of heightened tensions following the outbreak of conflict in Gaza on 7th October, which has seen Iran and its proxies reportedly increasing efforts to attack Israeli and Jewish targets globally. While the Israeli National Security Council has not altered its official threat level for Thailand, it urges Israelis to exercise caution. Recommended measures include avoiding visible expressions of Israeli or Jewish identity, steering clear of large events associated with Israelis, not sharing travel plans on social media, and promptly reporting any suspicious activity. Attendees of the Full Moon Party are encouraged to stay engaged with local security, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-13

Aggressive Foreign Vendors in Pattaya Threaten City Image Ahead of Major Festivals By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — Foreign vendors in Pattaya, some carrying young children, are aggressively trying to sell items like flowers and candy to tourists, sparking concerns about the city’s image ahead of the upcoming Loy Krathong and International Fireworks Festival. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343392-aggressive-foreign-vendors-in-pattaya-threaten-city-image-ahead-of-major-festivals/

Pattaya — Foreign vendors in Pattaya, some carrying young children, are aggressively trying to sell items like flowers and candy to tourists, sparking concerns about the city’s image ahead of the upcoming Loy Krathong and International Fireworks Festival. At around 4:00 AM on November 12th, The Pattaya News reporters observed groups of foreign individuals, believed to be of Vietnamese origin, along Walking Street in South Pattaya and Soi Phettrakhoon. These individuals were seen carrying young children, from newborns to about seven-year-old children, and approaching tourists to sell goods. Some even became frustrated or verbally insulted tourists if they refused to buy. Several individuals were engaging in these behaviors, and it was believed that they were using children to evoke sympathy from tourists, leading some to buy their goods or, in some cases, give money out of pity without taking anything in return. When the group noticed they were being recorded, some responded angrily to the reporters and quickly moved to other areas, showing no fear of the local law. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-11-13

Thai Police Rescue Five Chinese Tourists from Human Trafficking Plot Picture courtesy: Thai Rath On 12 November, Police Lieutenant General Prachuap Wongsuk, Acting Deputy Police Chief of Thailand, successfully intervened to prevent a human trafficking incident involving five Chinese tourists who intended to travel to Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343390-thai-police-rescue-five-chinese-tourists-from-human-trafficking-plot/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath On 12 November, Police Lieutenant General Prachuap Wongsuk, Acting Deputy Police Chief of Thailand, successfully intervened to prevent a human trafficking incident involving five Chinese tourists who intended to travel to Pattaya. Instead, they were misled by their driver and diverted to the Thai-Myanmar border at the Mae Sot checkpoint in Tak Province, almost falling victim to a suspected call centre gang in Myawaddy, Myanmar. The incident occurred while Lt. Gen. Prachuap was at the Tak Immigration Office near the Thai-Myanmar border for a meeting with various anti-trafficking and cross-border crime agencies. During the meeting, local officials reported suspicious activity at the Ban Huai Hin Fon checkpoint, a key security post on the Mae Sot-Tak Road. Upon inspection, officers found five Chinese nationals—both men and women travelling in a private vehicle. Assisted by a Chinese interpreter, authorities verified their documents and interviewed the group, who explained they were en route to Pattaya when their driver diverted them to the Mae Sot border crossing. The Chinese tourists expressed shock at the sudden change in route and the dangerous situation they had unwittingly entered. Authorities suspect that, had the vehicle gone undetected, the tourists could have been transported across the border to Myawaddy, where they might have been coerced into working for criminal call centre organisations. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Following their rescue, officials facilitated the safe transfer of the group back on their journey to Pattaya, ensuring they avoided becoming victims of human trafficking. Simultaneously, security forces inspected other trafficking victims at the Tak Province Human Trafficking Victim Support Centre. Lt. Gen. Prachuap emphasised the government’s commitment to combating human trafficking and cross-border crime. In collaboration with international and local agencies, Thailand aims to increase border security, particularly along key routes that traffickers use to transport victims to third countries, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-11-13

Mystery Car Parked Directly on Krabi Beach Sparks Concerns Among Sunbathers By Tanakorn Panyadee PHOTO: MGR Online ภาคใต้ Krabi — A mysterious car parked directly on the beach in Koh Lanta, Krabi, left sunbathers bewildered. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343387-mystery-car-parked-directly-on-krabi-beach-sparks-concerns-among-sunbathers/

Krabi — A mysterious car parked directly on the beach in Koh Lanta, Krabi, left sunbathers bewildered. On November 11th, a sedan was spotted driving onto Klong Dao Beach in the Koh Lanta district, Krabi province, while tourists were sunbathing nearby. It was suspected that the car was abandoned by its owner before they went for a walk along the beach. A local who goes by the name Sittichai Krabi on TikTok posted a one-minute video, showing a gray Toyota Vios with a Bangkok license plate parked on the beach. The post was captioned, “Klong Dao Beach, Sala Dan, Koh Lanta, Krabi. Here’s a car on the beach.” By Tanakorn Panyadee PHOTO: MGR Online ภาคใต้ Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-11-13

Thaksin Summoned by House Panel to Testify on Police Hospital Stay FILE - Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, center, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, alongside high-profile government figures, has been summoned to testify before a House committee later this month concerning his controversial stay at Police Hospital last year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343385-thaksin-summoned-by-house-panel-to-testify-on-police-hospital-stay/

FILE - Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, center, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, alongside high-profile government figures, has been summoned to testify before a House committee later this month concerning his controversial stay at Police Hospital last year. Thaksin, who is influential in the ruling Pheu Thai Party, is at the centre of allegations regarding his six-month stay at the hospital whilst being a convicted criminal on paper. The arrangement is perceived by critics as a ploy to avoid time in an actual prison following a shortened one-year sentence for power abuse crimes during his prime ministership. Rangsiman Rome, Chairman of the House Committee on Security, Border Affairs, National Strategies & National Reform, has called in Thaksin, along with Justice Minister Thavi Sodsong, Corrections Department Director-General Sahakarn Petchnarin, and Pol.Lt.Gen. Thavisilp Vejavitharn, chief of Police Hospital. Their testimonies are slated for November 22nd. According to reports, Thaksin managed to delay his prison stay by reportedly feigning critical health issues, which led to his stay at Police Hospital instead of serving his sentence at the Bangkok Remand Prison. His critics allege this was done without Supreme Court authorisation and question the legitimacy of his medical condition at the time. If proven guilty of orchestrating a fraudulent medical condition, Thaksin faces the possibility of returning to jail. Additionally, government officials connected to this potential conspiracy might be held accountable. Statements from Seripisut Timewave, the former police chief and now leader of the Thai Liberal party, support suspicions about Thaksin's condition, noting that he did not seem critically ill during his visits. To date, the National Anti-Corruption Commission's requests for detailed medical records from the hospital have gone unanswered, fuelling further scrutiny of the situation. The House committee is set to investigate the evidence related to Thaksin's stay, pursuing any action deemed necessary, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-13

Thai Electric Cables Mostly Fail Global Safety Standards Picture courtesy: Freepik The Industry Minister of Thailand, Akanat Promphan, has issued a concerning report stating that the majority of electric cable brands sold within the country fail to meet international safety standards. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343364-thai-electric-cables-mostly-fail-global-safety-standards/

Picture courtesy: Freepik The Industry Minister of Thailand, Akanat Promphan, has issued a concerning report stating that the majority of electric cable brands sold within the country fail to meet international safety standards. Numerous complaints have drawn attention to the potential hazards posed by thin copper wires employed in many of these brands, which can result in overheating and pose serious risks of fires or short circuits. The investigation covered 78 different brands available on the Thai market, both domestic and imported. Alarmingly, it was found that only 20 of these brands satisfied the safety criteria established by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO). This revelation has prompted the minister to demand immediate remedial measures to protect public safety. In response to these troubling findings, Minister Akanat has instructed the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) to initiate legal proceedings against those importers and manufacturers whose products do not meet the required ISO standards. He emphasised the critical need for these entities to ensure that their products are safe for consumers, given the potential dangers substandard cables pose to both life and property. Moreover, TISI has been tasked with coordinating efforts with related agencies to lodge police complaints and revoke the licences of non-compliant companies. This directive is intended to curb the sale and distribution of inferior electric cables in Thailand, thereby safeguarding consumers from yet another source of risk in daily life. Minister Akanat's call for heightened regulatory enforcement and quality assurance highlights an urgent need to align local products with global safety measures. This move marks a pivotal step for Thailand as steps are taken to enhance the safety of electrical products nationwide, reported The Nation. -- 2024-11-13

Drunk foreigner shocks Phuket woman by entering her unlocked car Photo by วุฒิพงษ์ แบงค์ พิบูลย์ via Facebook group/ ขับรถแบบนี้ต้องประจาน ภูเก็ต A Thai man took to social media to issue a warning to locals in Phuket after a drunk foreign man entered his girlfriend’s unlocked car last night leaving her in shock. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343365-drunk-foreigner-shocks-phuket-woman-by-entering-her-unlocked-car/

Early Check-In Coming to Suvarnabhumi Airport by February File photo for reference only Suvarnabhumi International Airport will begin offering an early check-in service by February. This new service allows passengers to check in up to 24 hours before their flight. The Transport Ministry announced this on social media, explaining that the goal is to make travel easier and to cut down on congestion at Thailand’s main international airport. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343367-early-check-in-coming-to-suvarnabhumi-airport-by-february/

Bangkok Adapts 'London Model' for Traffic Congestion Fees File photo courtesy: Wikimedia The Thai Transport Ministry plans to implement the "London Model" to manage traffic congestion in Bangkok by introducing congestion fees in inner city areas. This move aims to reduce heavy traffic and fund public transport infrastructure. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343404-bangkok-adapts-london-model-for-traffic-congestion-fees/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 13 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343358-thailand-live-wednesday-13-november-2024/

Picture courtesy of Dailynews An elephant at a charity event in Bueng Kan went on a rampage, causing the tragic death of one woman and leaving a man severely injured. The incident, which took place yesterday, November 11, led to chaos as attendees fled in panic. Elephant rampage at charity event in Bueng Kan kills woman Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1343354-elephant-rampage-at-charity-event-in-bueng-kan-kills-woman/

Thai woman’s daring car cling ends in roadside heartbreak - video A Thai woman desperately tried to stop her husband from fleeing with his mistress by clinging onto his car, only to be savagely attacked and left abandoned by him on a roadside in Phatthalung, a southern province. The 48 year old woman, Bee, called officers from Mueang Phatthalung Police Station to pick her up from the side of Aphai Borrirak Road after being physically assaulted and abandoned at the scene. Upon arrival, officers found Bee lying on the ground, crying, with wounds and bruises across her body. Bee, who was intoxicated, told the police that she found her husband checked in at a bar on a Facebook app, so she went there to confront him. She found him with another woman and rushed over to tell the mistress she was the reportedly cheating man’s legal wife. Bee and her husband then engaged in a heated argument, after which he left with his mistress and headed towards his car. Determined to stop him, Bee jumped onto the car’s bonnet. CCTV footage shared by Channel 7 shows the incident took place in the rain, putting the woman, who was clinging to the wet and slippery bonnet, in a more dangerous situation. Her husband ignored the dangers and continued driving for 6 kilometres until she fell off. The cheating husband then exited the vehicle, not to help her, but to beat her up before abandoning her with serious injuries, and driving away with his mistress. Police called for rescue personnel to administer first aid to Bee and transport her to a hospital for further medical assessment. Officers also advised her to visit the police station after receiving treatment if she wished to take legal action against her husband. As of now, there has been no update on whether Bee has pursued legal steps against him. In a similar incident reported last year, a Thai woman climbed onto a moving car to prevent her husband from escaping with his mistress. Witnesses tried to intervene and asked the husband to stop but to no avail. The man drove even faster, hoping she would fall off, but she managed to hold on. He eventually stopped, only to exit and forcibly throw her onto the road. The woman insisted on divorcing her husband and sued both him and his mistress for adultery as he had cheated on her twice before. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-12

Taxi tensions in Phuket: Drivers demand ride-hailing rights by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Tensions are boiling over in Phuket as local green plate taxi drivers, reliant on app-based bookings to stay afloat, face hefty 2,000-baht fines for doing just that. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343323-taxi-tensions-in-phuket-drivers-demand-ride-hailing-rights/

Tensions are boiling over in Phuket as local green plate taxi drivers, reliant on app-based bookings to stay afloat, face hefty 2,000-baht fines for doing just that. Drivers rallied at Saphan Hin’s central stage last Tuesday, November 5, calling on officials to overhaul outdated regulations that penalise them for using ride-hailing apps – a vital income stream since the pandemic decimated traditional tourism. “We’re just trying to earn a living,” said Prasert Khemmanuwong, a representative for the drivers, describing the fines as “distressing.” Phuket’s green plate taxis, typically dedicated to business and tourist transport, embraced ride-hailing apps during Covid-19 to reach scarce customers, a practice that became essential for many drivers. But recent crackdowns have left them in a bind: drivers caught using the apps now face fines, pushing many to gather and demand a temporary halt on fines while new laws are discussed. “We are calling for legal amendments that will let us work through apps as before, or at least a temporary halt on fines while we await these changes,” Prasert said, stressing the importance of adapting the law to support drivers’ livelihoods. The Phuket Land Transport Office (PLTO), however, has shown little sympathy. Chief Atcha Buachan noted that current regulations prohibit green plate taxis from using ride-hailing apps, advising drivers to re-register under Type 18 for legal app-based work. Despite drivers’ pleas, the PLTO has so far ignored their gathering at Saphan Hin. According to the latest PLTO update, platforms such as Grab, Hello Phuket, and AirAsia Super App are authorised in Thailand, though some like Maxim remain uncertified for legal use. As frustrations grow, green plate drivers are appealing to provincial officials to provide a workable, legal pathway for app-based work – or risk further discontent among Phuket’s beleaguered taxi drivers, reported Phuket News. Photo courtesy of Phuket News by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-12

Thai Cabinet Proposes Extra Holidays for 2025 Picture: Holidays by Nick Youngson CC BY-SA 3.0 Courtesy: Alpha Stock Images via Picserver The Thai Cabinet has announced a proposal to introduce additional public holidays in 2025, aiming to enhance work-life balance and revive the tourism sector. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343316-thai-cabinet-proposes-extra-holidays-for-2025/