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Corruption scandal hits the brakes: Thailand’s bus industry whistleblows dirty dealings Photo by Chaowanon J via flickr A shocking revelation has swept through the coach bus industry of Thailand as several anonymous companies have blown the whistle on rampant corruption within the Land Transport Department‘s vehicle inspection process. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339842-corruption-scandal-hits-the-brakes-thailand’s-bus-industry-whistleblows-dirty-dealings/

Bangkok Streets to Undergo Significant Improvements File photo for reference only Bangkok’s city streets are set for a major revamp, with City Governor Chadchart Sittipunt leading efforts to address enduring urban issues. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339848-bangkok-streets-to-undergo-significant-improvements/

At a significant ceremony for the 66th birthday of Newin Chidchob, the de facto leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, blessings were bestowed upon party leader Anutin Charnvirakul, aiming for his future as Prime Minister. Held at Buriram United Football Club's Buriram Castle, the event on 4th October attracted politicians, esteemed figures, and high-ranking officials from the Interior Ministry. Anutin Blessed for PM Role at Newin's Birthday Ceremony Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339859-anutin-blessed-for-pm-role-at-newins-birthday-ceremony/

At a significant ceremony for the 66th birthday of Newin Chidchob, the de facto leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, blessings were bestowed upon party leader Anutin Charnvirakul, aiming for his future as Prime Minister. Held at Buriram United Football Club's Buriram Castle, the event on 4th October attracted politicians, esteemed figures, and high-ranking officials from the Interior Ministry. The ceremony was unique, featuring age-old traditions from the Chidchob lineage. A central feature was an elephant ceremony, where participants fed bananas to elephants, symbolising good fortune. This was followed by a wrist-tying ritual, a traditional act believed to bring luck, conducted by the revered monk, Khuru Pakam. Picture courtesy: Daily News Significantly, after the monk blessed Newin by tying a string on his wrist, Newin requested the monk extend the blessing to Anutin, fervently expressing, "Tie it so he becomes the prime minister, tie it so he's great, tie it so he's strong." This public endorsement hints at Anutin's potential ascendancy in the Thai political realm. The ceremony, attended by numerous celebrants, was not just a personal milestone for Newin but also spotlighted the political aspirations and networks within the Bhumjaithai Party. Anutin, presently serving as the Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, is seen by many as a potential candidate for the nation's top political position. In response to the ritual and well wishes, Anutin reciprocated by tying a string on Newin's wrist, offering good health and that Newin's own desires might manifest, reported THai Newsroom. The exchange reinforced the bond between the two political figures and the strong camaraderie within the party, potentially shaping the political landscape of the nation. The day’s events have sparked conversations about future leadership and alliances in Thai politics. TOP Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-05

Elephants and other sick animals evacuated from flooded shelter National park officials, boats and FWD trucks are rushing to an elephant conservation centre in Mae Taeng district of Chiang Mai to evacuate about 100 elephants and hundreds of other animals, as floodwater reaches two metres and is still rising. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339861-elephants-and-other-sick-animals-evacuated-from-flooded-shelter/

National park officials, boats and FWD trucks are rushing to an elephant conservation centre in Mae Taeng district of Chiang Mai to evacuate about 100 elephants and hundreds of other animals, as floodwater reaches two metres and is still rising. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, director general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, said today that the rescue operation is being hampered because all roads leading to the Elephant and Environment Conservation Foundation centre are heavily flooded. He also said that more volunteers are needed to help the first group of about 50 people, from the Sri Lanna National Park and from Chiang Dao district, who are already on their way to the scene, adding that a request for more boats has been submitted to the Department of Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. Even though elephants enjoy being in water, Atthaphon said that staying in it too long in water can cause problems and some of them in the conservation centre are not tame. Full story: Thai PBS -- 2024-10-04

Thai-ing up the rain: Bangkok braces for a downpour of showers by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Brandon Morgan, Unsplash Thailand faces widespread rainfall today, with heavy showers expected in Bangkok and its surrounding provinces. This weather pattern affects 38 provinces, excluding the northeastern region, which experiences cooler morning temperatures. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339808-thai-ing-up-the-rain-bangkok-braces-for-a-downpour-of-showers/

Thailand faces widespread rainfall today, with heavy showers expected in Bangkok and its surrounding provinces. This weather pattern affects 38 provinces, excluding the northeastern region, which experiences cooler morning temperatures. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts for the next 24 hours show significant rainfall in the western parts of the northern and central regions, the east, and the south. Cooler mornings with strong winds and slight temperature drops are expected in the northeastern region, with occasional showers in the southern parts. This weather is due to a moderate high-pressure or cold air mass from China covering the eastern parts of the north, upper central region, northeast, and the South China Sea, combined with a monsoon trough over the lower central, upper southern, and eastern regions, said a TMD spokesperson. “Residents in these areas should be cautious of heavy rainfall and accumulated rain, which could lead to flash floods and runoffs, especially in foothill areas near water flows and low-lying regions. Additionally, take care of your health due to the changing weather conditions.” In the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, waves are expected to be about 1 metre high and could exceed 2 metres in thunderstorm areas. “Sailors in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand should navigate cautiously and avoid sailing in thunderstorm-prone areas.” Northern Region: Thunderstorms are expected in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, particularly in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Lampang, Sukhothai, Tak, and Kamphaeng Phet. Temperatures will range from 21 to 23 degrees Celsius in the mornings and 29 to 33 degrees Celsius during the day. Southeastern winds will blow at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. Heavy rainfall Northeastern Region: The mornings will be cool with strong winds and slight temperature drops, accompanied by occasional showers in the southern part. Temperatures will range from 19 to 22 degrees Celsius in the mornings and 30 to 33 degrees Celsius during the day. Northeastern winds will blow at 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. Central Region: Thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, particularly in Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Suphan Buri, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram. Temperatures will range from 22 to 24 degrees Celsius in the mornings and 31 to 33 degrees Celsius during the day. Variable winds will blow at 10 to 25 kilometres per hour. Eastern Region: Thunderstorms are expected in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, particularly in Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Temperatures will range from 23 to 27 degrees Celsius in the mornings and 31 to 34 degrees Celsius during the day. Southeastern winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with higher waves over 2 metres in thunderstorm areas. Southern Region (east coast): Thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, particularly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25 degrees Celsius in the mornings and 30 to 34 degrees Celsius during the day. AdvertisementsFrom Prachuap Khiri Khan upwards, variable winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with higher waves over 2 metres in thunderstorm areas. From Chumphon downwards, southwestern winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with higher waves over 2 metres in thunderstorm areas. Southern Region (west coast): Thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, particularly in Ranong, Phang Nga, Trang, and Satun. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25 degrees Celsius in the mornings and 30 to 33 degrees Celsius during the day. Southwestern winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, with higher waves over 2 metres in thunderstorm areas, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and Surrounding Areas: Thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25 degrees Celsius in the mornings and 32 to 34 degrees Celsius during the day. Variable winds will blow at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Brandon Morgan, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-04

American Woman Flies 18 Hours to See Famous Hippo ‘Moo Deng’ Video screenshot In a remarkable example of "soft power," an American woman flew nearly 18 hours to Thailand just to see the famous hippo, ‘Moo Deng’, and even bought themed outfits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339807-american-woman-flies-18-hours-to-see-famous-hippo-‘moo-deng’/

Video screenshot In a remarkable example of "soft power," an American woman flew nearly 18 hours to Thailand just to see the famous hippo, ‘Moo Deng’, and even bought themed outfits. Moo Deng, the adorable baby pygmy hippo at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi, has become an internet sensation. Her rosy pink cheeks and affectionate behavior towards her caretakers have captured the hearts of people worldwide. Recently, Molly, a TikTok user from the U.S., shared her journey, showing that she traveled almost 21 hours (with 18.5 hours of flying) to meet ‘Moo Deng’. She posted, “I traveled nearly 21 hours to see Moo Eeang, but the immigration officers barely believed me! Next stop, Moo Deng!” -- 2024-10-04

Cabbie chaos: Thai app rider punches cop in Bangkok (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 3 A Thai app-based taxi rider physically assaulted a police officer and damaged his car, claiming the cop was responsible for an earlier road accident in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339805-cabbie-chaos-thai-app-rider-punches-cop-in-bangkok-video/

A Thai app-based taxi rider physically assaulted a police officer and damaged his car, claiming the cop was responsible for an earlier road accident in Bangkok. The footage of the physical assault on 30 year old Police Corporal Wirodom Najaiboon, from the Protection and Crowd Control Division, went viral on Thai social media and was shared by many news outlets. The app-based rider, later identified as 28 year old Sahaphap, was the man in the dark blue shirt and jeans. Despite the heated exchange, Corporal Wirodom maintained his composure and refrained from fighting back. Even the intervention of two security guards couldn’t pacify the furious Sahaphap. This shocking display of aggression has not only ignited outrage but has left many questioning how far things will go in today’s age of road rage. Wirodom reported the incident at Mueang Nonthaburi Police Station after the assault, which occurred at about 4pm, yesterday, October 3, Wirodom explained that he was driving the car to lead buses of students, who had just finished their camp in Saraburi province and were returning to their school. Wirodom said he closed the left lane of the road to make way for the buses. Other vehicles stopped behind his car, except for the app-based rider, who was travelling at high speed and unable to stop in time, resulting in a collision with other parked vehicles. Wirodom stated that the rider blamed him for the accident and followed him from the accident scene. Warodom urged the rider to file a complaint against him if he believed the accident was his fault but the rider ignored this suggestion and initiated the physical assault. Sahaphap insisted that the accident was the police officer’s fault, and other witnesses also supported this claim. He wanted the officer to cover the repair costs for his motorcycle. Sahaphap added that he was willing to apologise to the police officer and compensate for his injuries if the officer admitted his fault and compensated him as well. Officers at Mueang Nonthaburi Police Station are investigating the case and reviewing security camera footage from the scene of the accident. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 3 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-04

Minister Pushes for Bangkok F1 Race Plan with 2024 Deadline Composite image: ASEAN NOW Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong is pursuing an ambitious plan to host a Formula 1 (F1) street race in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339802-minister-pushes-for-bangkok-f1-race-plan-with-2024-deadline/

Composite image: ASEAN NOW Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong is pursuing an ambitious plan to host a Formula 1 (F1) street race in Bangkok. Talks are already underway with the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile, the governing body for F1 racing, to secure the rights. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is reportedly supportive, echoing sentiments from former leader Srettha Thavisin. Sorawong highlighted two potential formats: traditional circuit races or street races in urban settings. He emphasised that F1 racing is more than a sport—it attracts global car enthusiasts and wealthy tourists, typically generating over 12 billion baht per event. The concept isn't new. In 2015, former Tourism Minister Chumpol Silapa-archa proposed a similar plan with routes through Rattanakosin Island. However, due to the area's wooden infrastructure, alternative routes are being considered. A feasibility study is ongoing, with updates expected in December. Simultaneously, a private consortium is designing an F1 circuit track at U-tapao, within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). EEC secretary-general Chula Sukmanop confirmed the project is in its planning stages, and a license will be the next step. The track, open to the public year-round, aims to emulate the F1 experience, despite hosting races only twice annually. On a related note, the EEC, in collaboration with the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, is preparing for the Mini EEC Fair 2024 set for October. With over 400 anticipated business deals worth around 45 million baht, this event aims to boost investment in key S-curve industries in the region. To further stimulate tourism, Sorawong's ministry is revising its 2024 strategy, discussing budgets for potential schemes like "We Travel Together," anticipated to launch during the next low tourist season. -- 2024-10-04

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 4 October 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339800-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-4-october-2024/

NEWS - 04-October.mp4 The Department of Transport has impounded five coaches from a garage in Nakhon Ratchasima, owned by the same tour company involved in the fatal crash that killed 23 students and teachers on Tuesday. Two transport officials responsible for vehicle inspections have been transferred, pending an investigation into their role in approving the roadworthiness of the bus involved in the accident. A 38-year-old armed man took two men hostage in a house in north Bangkok. Initially police thought the hostages were children, a woman in the house escaped earlier. The suspect, dressed in camouflage, opened fire, injuring a police officer and a resident. Fearing for the hostages' safety, police delayed storming the house. When they finally raided it, the former boxer had already managed to escape. The Narathiwat court has issued an arrest warrant for a 74-year-old Pheu Thai MP and former Army general over the 2004 Tak Bai massacre. Representing the victims' families, the Cross Cultural Foundation notes the general failed to respond to a summons. He is now one of seven defendants facing charges for allegedly colluding in the deaths of 85 protesters. BYD EV car owners filed a complaint yesterday, claiming the company's aggressive marketing is unfair. They reported difficulties accessing free electric car charging promised for a year. Consumer protection officials urged the government to review BYD's pricing and improve charging access Thailand has risen to 28th in the 2024 "Best Countries in the World" ranking by the ‘US News & World Report’, up one spot from last year. The ranking, based on insights from 17,000 respondents across 89 countries, evaluates factors such as cultural heritage, quality of life, business friendliness, and future growth potential. Switzerland ranked first with a perfect score of 100. About the region Indonesia says it upholds its ban on e-commerce platform Temu due to fears it could disrupt the country’s micro, small and medium enterprises, Indonesia's ministry of trade says Temu’s business model of selling products directly from factories to consumers goes against Indonesia’s trade regulation requiring an intermediary or distributor, Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: cloudy with rain 28C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thunderstorms 32C Pattaya: cloudy Thundershowers 30C Phuket and the south: Thundershowers 29C Hua Hin: Bright, cloudy with rain likely this afternoon 30C Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-10-04 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5

Former Boxer Holds Two Doctors Hostage Before Escaping Picture courtesy: Daily News On October 3, a tense situation unfolded in Soi Inthamara 29, when a former Thai boxer took two doctors and a woman hostage in a residential home. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339799-former-boxer-holds-two-doctors-hostage-before-escaping/

Picture courtesy: Daily News On October 3, a tense situation unfolded in Bangkok's Soi Inthamara 29, when a former Thai boxer took two doctors and a woman hostage in a residential home. The suspect, identified as 39-year-old Santith, was already wanted under an arrest warrant issued by the Tao Pun Police Station for various charges, including nighttime burglary and property damage. The events began when police were executing a plan to arrest Santith in Soi Inthamara 29, near the location of his last known whereabouts. As officers closed in on him, he opened fire to create a distraction, allowing him to escape and evade capture. He jumped over a wall and entered a home at number 274/1, where he took three people hostage—two men and a woman. Fortunately, the woman managed to escape early in the ordeal. Following the hostage situation, the Tao Pun police coordinated with the Bang Sue police and the special operations unit, known as the Hanuman team, to surround the house. Officers attempted to negotiate Santith's surrender while utilizing drones to monitor the area from above. Investigators revealed that Santith, also known by his boxing name "Ritthidet," had a past as a professional boxer and had worked as a trainer. His penchant for firearms raised concerns among authorities about his willingness to resort to violence. Later that evening, police officials including Acting Police Chief Kittirat Phanphet, Metropolitan Police Commander Thiti Saengsawang, and various other high-ranking officers arrived at the scene to oversee the situation. Around 12:30 AM on October 4, Acting Police Chief Kittirat announced that they had successfully rescued the two doctors held hostage. The doctors, named Dr. Mak, aged 30, and Dr. Chang, aged 31, are siblings and both unharmed during the incident. The woman who had previously escaped was also found to be safe. Despite the successful rescue, Santith managed to flee from the back of the house. As of now, police are actively pursuing leads on his escape route, employing tactical strategies to apprehend him. Authorities assured the public that they were prepared to capture him and bring him to justice. Observations indicated that Santith did not intend to harm anyone; his primary goal appeared to be evading police capture. The entire ordeal has raised concerns about public safety in the area, prompting police to enhance their patrols and investigate any potential connections Santith may have with organized crime. Officials emphasized the importance of vigilance and urged residents to report any suspicious activities. As the manhunt continues, police remain optimistic about capturing Santith. They believe that their investigative tactics and increased police presence in the area will soon lead to his apprehension. The community is relieved that the hostages are safe, but they continue to grapple with the implications of such a dangerous incident occurring so close to home, reported Daily News. In conclusion, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of crime and the constant need for law enforcement vigilance. The police's swift actions ensured the safety of the hostages, and they are committed to bringing the suspect to justice as soon as possible. -- 2024-10-04

Bus Companies Lament Over Suspension of School Field Trips Screenshot - for reference only Tour bus companies across the nation are facing challenging times following a government directive halting school field trips. This decision came after a devastating bus fire in Pathum Thani on Tuesday, which resulted in the tragic deaths of 20 students and three teachers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339793-bus-companies-lament-over-suspension-of-school-field-trips/

Screenshot - for reference only Tour bus companies across the nation are facing challenging times following a government directive halting school field trips. This decision came after a devastating bus fire in Pathum Thani on Tuesday, which resulted in the tragic deaths of 20 students and three teachers. The Ministry of Education has ordered the temporary suspension for safety evaluations, putting a significant dent in the operations of many tour bus firms. Bus operators like Thawatchai Wongwanitkanwarn from Nakhon Ratchasima insist they adhere to strict safety protocols, regularly inspecting buses and ensuring drivers and vehicles meet the necessary standards. Yet, the blanket suspension has hit their businesses hard. Thawatchai’s fleet consists mainly of double-decker diesel buses, generally used for state agencies and private tours rather than school trips. Other operators, however, rely heavily on providing transportation for schools. The suspension, they argue, affects their single-decker buses used specifically for student outings. The tragedy involved a severely modified bus more than 50 years old, with improperly installed gas tanks, leading to its operator's licence being suspended. In response, the government announced stricter safety regulations and broader inspections of gas-powered buses nationwide. Education Minister Permpoon Chidchob has enacted a moratorium on school field outings as officials reassess safety practices. With plans already disrupted after the pandemic, tour bus operators now face another setback, reducing their recovery efforts. Passenger numbers have clawed back to only half of what they were before Covid, adding pressure on an already stressed industry. Chamroon Wannapas, owner of Ae Transport in Khon Kaen, noted that about 80% of his contracts were cancelled after the fire, with school customers the most affected. Bus hire fees typically range from 5,000 to 15,000 baht daily, but with cancellations mounting, many operators share Chamroon’s empathetic understanding, offering condolences to the grieving families while hoping for clarity on when services might resume, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-04

Bangkok Will Not Flood, PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra Assures Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has assured residents of Bangkok that fears of flooding are unfounded, emphasising that current rainwater levels are significantly lower compared to the devastating 2011 floods. On Wednesday, Ms. Paetongtarn reviewed the water situation at the Royal Irrigation Department in Nonthaburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339790-bangkok-will-not-flood-pm-paetongtarn-shinawatra-assures/

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has assured residents of Bangkok that fears of flooding are unfounded, emphasising that current rainwater levels are significantly lower compared to the devastating 2011 floods. On Wednesday, Ms. Paetongtarn reviewed the water situation at the Royal Irrigation Department in Nonthaburi. In 2011, Thailand faced the fury of five storms and saw a rainfall increase of over 25% beyond the average. In contrast, this year's figures show only a 2% rise above usual rainfall levels, and just one storm has struck. Major reservoirs still have room to retain water, unlike in 2011 when they reached capacity, forcing massive water releases. "For those concerned about potential flooding in Bangkok, there is no need to worry. Bangkok will not be flooded," assured Ms. Paetongtarn. Currently, rainfall in northern areas is contributing to water flow from the Ping, Wang, Yom, and Nan rivers into the Chao Phraya River. The Chao Phraya Dam in Chai Nat is releasing water at 1,899 cubic metres per second, a rate comfortably managed by current infrastructure. The Water Resources Department is closely monitoring at the Bang Sai station to ensure flow rates remain under 3,000 cubic metres per second in Ayutthaya. Local authorities are prepared, deploying drainage and pumping efforts to direct water efficiently to the Gulf of Thailand, managing a daily capacity of about 164 million cubic metres, reported Bangkok Post. Looking ahead, the Meteorological Department forecasts mixed weather, with possible storms and rainfall due to a cold front from China, affecting Bangkok, among other regions. Meanwhile, Jirayu Houngsub, a disaster relief spokesman, warned of potential overflow along Chiang Rai's Kok River due to expected heavy rains, potentially impacting 147 square kilometres across six districts. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-04

Thailand Ranks 28th Among the World's Best Countries Picture courtesy: FREEPIK Thailand has climbed to 28th place in the 2024 "Best Countries in the World" ranking by US News & World Report, marking a one-spot improvement from the previous year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339789-thailand-ranks-28th-among-the-worlds-best-countries/

Thailand has climbed to 28th place in the 2024 "Best Countries in the World" ranking by US News & World Report, marking a one-spot improvement from the previous year. The ranking, developed by US News & World Report in partnership with the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and global communications firm WPP, is based on insights from approximately 17,000 respondents across 89 countries, gathered between March and May. This global assessment evaluates various factors, including cultural heritage, entrepreneurial spirit, adaptability, quality of life, and business friendliness. It also considers social progress, soft power, and potential for future growth. Switzerland claimed the top spot with a perfect score of 100, followed by Japan in second place and the United States in third. The top ten also included Canada, Australia, and several European nations, reflecting their strong economies and high living standards. In Southeast Asia, Thailand leads in 28th place, outperforming regional neighbors like Malaysia at 38th and Indonesia at 41st. Singapore, however, holds the highest regional rank at 14th. The report highlights Thailand’s strong agricultural base, competitive manufacturing sector, and thriving tourism industry, which contributes about 7% to its GDP. Despite tourism’s supportive role in the economy, these sectors are key to the country's resilience. Thailand's steady rise in the rankings underscores its dynamic cultural heritage and growing economic potential, making it an attractive destination for both tourists and investors, reported The Nation. Picture courtesy: FREEPIK -- 2024-10-04

Tour Company Tied to Bus Fire Caught Removing CNG Tanks from Five Additional Buses Picture courtesy: MGR online In a shocking revelation, authorities have impounded five coaches belonging to Shinbutr Tour Company following a devastating incident that claimed the lives of 20 schoolchildren and three teachers. These coaches were discovered at a garage in Nakhon Ratchasima with alterations being made to their CNG systems. Amidst intense scrutiny, the Land Transport Department (LTD) has suspended the company's operating licence after mechanics were caught removing extra CNG canisters from the coaches. These actions were apparently aimed at concealing unauthorised modifications. The spotlight has intensified on safety protocols following the catastrophic fire on a double-decker coach. It is believed this tragedy was exacerbated by illegal installations of CNG canisters. The ill-fated coach was fitted with 11 canisters, significantly exceeding the six the company was permitted to install. Director-General of the LTD, Jirut Wisanjit, revealed that Shinbutr Tour had tried to circumvent inspections by not sending their buses to the LTD office as previously requested. The department located the vehicles using on-board GPS systems, finding them stationed at a private garage where attempts were made to cover up prior infractions. In response to the incident, two LTD officials responsible for vehicle inspections have been transferred, pending further investigation. Meanwhile, the coach owner, driver, and the mechanic involved in the improper installations are now subject to questioning to assess their roles in the tragedy. Shinbutr Tour Company faces mounting pressure and legal challenges following these developments, raising broader questions about enforcement of safety regulations in the public transport sector. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-10-04