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Pattaya deputy mayor slams contractors with record fines Photo courtesy: Pattaya Mail In response to mounting frustration over delays at the North Pattaya intersection, Deputy Mayor Manot Nongyai has taken decisive action, confirming hefty penalties for the responsible contractor. The construction setbacks have caused major disruptions to residents and the local tourism scene, prompting swift measures from city officials. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330167-pattaya-deputy-mayor-slams-contractors-with-record-fines/

Thailand has made a substantial jump in the global competitiveness rankings, surpassing Malaysia to secure the second position within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The 2024 report by the IMD World Competitiveness Centre indicates that Thailand has moved up five positions to rank 25th globally, denoting a significant improvement in its economic performance. Thailand Outranks Malaysia in ASEAN Standings Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330179-thailand-outranks-malaysia-in-asean-standings/

Thailand's Tourism Faces 'Zero-Dollar' Tour Crisis Picture: Xinhua/Wang Teng Thailand is grappling with a surge in so-called “zero-dollar” tours that are wreaking havoc on the tourism sector. These tours, notorious for their rock-bottom prices or free offers, primarily target tourists from China, Russia, and India, leaving local Thai operators struggling to compete. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330120-thailands-tourism-faces-zero-dollar-tour-crisis/

Thailand is grappling with a surge in so-called “zero-dollar” tours that are wreaking havoc on the tourism sector. These tours, notorious for their rock-bottom prices or free offers, primarily target tourists from China, Russia, and India, leaving local Thai operators struggling to compete. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, President of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), voiced grave concerns, stating these tours not only offer substandard services but also exploit unsuspecting tourists. These shady operations are run by foreign entities disguised as local businesses, dramatically undercutting prices to attract tourists. Sisdivachr revealed that tourists on zero-dollar tours are often pressured into buying overpriced products and services they don’t need, in order to recoup costs. “This tarnishes Thailand’s image, making the country appear cheap and unsafe,” he lamented. He recently raised these concerns with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, describing it as the worst climate he has seen in his career. Driving Out Legitimate Businesses These predatory practices aim to dominate market share by eliminating legitimate competition. Once they achieve market dominance, these operators plan to raise prices arbitrarily. Sisdivachr warned, “This is different from legitimate promotions; it’s a strategy to monopolise the market.” Zero-dollar tours not only damage Thailand's tourism reputation but also contribute less to the local economy. These illegal operators often evade taxes and avoid using local services, diverting substantial revenue away from local businesses. To combat this, Sisdivachr calls for a collaborative effort between the private sector, Thai authorities, and Chinese officials. He urges swift action, cautioning that the longer these tours persist, the deeper the harm to Thailand’s tourism industry. Many licensed operators are now shifting their focus to more specialised services, away from high-volume, low-margin business models. However, Sisdivachr insists that dismantling these illegal networks requires more than sporadic arrests. “Authorities need to break up the entire network, as each illegal operator often runs multiple illicit businesses.” ATTA and the Federation of Thai Tourism Associations plan to meet with Tourism and Sports Minister Sermsak Pongpanit soon to address these pressing issues. TOP Picture: Xinhua/Wang Teng -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

TMD Issues Thunderstorm Warning for 36 Provinces File photo The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) has issued a stark warning for 36 provinces to brace for rain and thunderstorms. Bangkok and its surrounding areas are particularly noted, with rain expected in 40% of their regions, while the southern coast may see thunderstorms in up to 60% of its locales. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330119-tmd-issues-thunderstorm-warning-for-36-provinces/

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) has issued a stark warning for 36 provinces to brace for rain and thunderstorms. Bangkok and its surrounding areas are particularly noted, with rain expected in 40% of their regions, while the southern coast may see thunderstorms in up to 60% of its locales. According to TMD's 24-hour forecast, the southwest monsoon currently affects the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. Additionally, a low-pressure zone covers the upper coast of Vietnam and the Gulf of Tonkin, resulting in the nation’s turbulent weather. Heavy rain is expected to hit eastern and western southern regions hardest. In the North, 40% of the region, including provinces like Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao, and Tak, will experience thunderstorms. Temperatures will vary between 24-26°C at night and 34-36°C during the day. The Northeast can expect storms in 30% of its areas, with provinces such as Nong Khai, Udon Thani, and Sakon Nakhon in the line of sight. Temperature readings here will be somewhat similar, swinging between 24-27°C and 34-38°C. For the Central region, including Nakhon Sawan and Kanchanaburi, thunderstorms will affect 30% of the area. The minimum temperature will be 25-27°C, peaking at 36-37°C. The Eastern coast will see thunderstorms in 40% of its area, with Rayong and Chanthaburi likely experiencing heavy rainfall. Temperatures will range from 24-29°C at night to 33-37°C by day. The sea is expected to have waves about one metre high, increasing beyond this in stormy areas. The Southern regions will be significantly affected. The eastern coast, particularly Chumphon and Surat Thani, will face storms in 40% of the area. The western coast, including Phuket and Phang Nga, will witness thunderstorms in up to 60% of their regions, with heavy rain and sea waves of one to two metres, rising higher in stormy patches. Residents across these areas are advised to stay alert and take necessary precautions to safeguard themselves against potential weather hazards. With temperatures expected to fluctuate and heavy rainfall likely, preparedness remains key. TOP: File photo -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phetchabun Police Officer Sells Grilled Pork to Supplement Income Picture courtesy: Khaosod In Phetchabun province's Wichian Buri, a traffic policeman's determination to achieve financial stability has led him into an unexpected side venture—selling grilled pork skewers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330117-phetchabun-police-officer-sells-grilled-pork-to-supplement-income/

In Phetchabun province's Wichian Buri, a traffic policeman's determination to achieve financial stability has led him into an unexpected side venture—selling grilled pork skewers. Officer Prasert Praphaso, who serves at Wichian Buri Police Station, has launched a small food stall named Siaw Ta Haek Moo Ping. Positioned nearby Niyomsilp Anuson School, his stand caters largely to the pupils attending the adjacent school. With just over a year in his policing role, Prasert felt the financial strain on his singular income. His police salary barely covered the essentials, prompting him to explore an alternative revenue stream. Eyeing the affordable grilled pork skewers, he saw an opportunity. “I decided to invest in the necessary equipment and do the prep work myself. I marinate and skewer the pork during my off-hours and days off,” Prasert shares. Operating from 6am to 7.50am, right before he dons his police uniform, Prasert serves students heading to school. His offerings are reasonably priced—5 baht per skewer and 5 baht for a portion of sticky rice. Post-sales, he ensures his stall is neatly packed away before proceeding to his official police duties. Far from feeling embarrassed, Prasert is proud of his small yet profitable venture. He believes it sets a positive example of balancing duty with enterprise and taking initiative during financially tough times. Elsewhere, changes are afoot in Bangkok as City Hall implements strict regulations to bring order among street vendors. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced new measures focusing on regularising vendor income, ensuring tax compliance, and clearing pavements of hawkers. Meanwhile, Thai Crime Suppression officers recently conducted a sting in Samut Sakhon, uncovering an extortion gang posing as police officers. The gang targeted kratom juice vendors and fuel smugglers, demanding money for protection under false pretences. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Authorities Seize Illegal Spiritual Retreat in Forest Reserve Photo courtesy: KhaoSod Authorities in Thailand have dismantled an illegal spiritual retreat operating within a national forest reserve. The site, complete with unapproved roads, buildings, and accommodations, was seized after a coordinated effort from forest officials, military personnel, police, and local administrative bodies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330116-thai-authorities-seize-illegal-spiritual-retreat-in-forest-reserve/

Authorities in Thailand have dismantled an illegal spiritual retreat operating within a national forest reserve. The site, complete with unapproved roads, buildings, and accommodations, was seized after a coordinated effort from forest officials, military personnel, police, and local administrative bodies. Pongpetch Kasupha, head of the Operation Unit of the Internal Security Operations Command Region 4, and Chanchai Kijsakdapap, leader of the Forest Department’s Tiger Unit, led the crackdown. They were joined by officers from the Environmental Crime Division and administrators from Lom Sak District, Phetchabun Province, as they inspected the Ruesi Sombat Cave spiritual retreat on June 18th. Responding to complaints about illegal activities in the forest reserve near Sombat Cave in the Bung Nam Tao Subdistrict, the inspectors found two nuns and a disciple of a monk at the location. They uncovered a concrete road ascending the mountain, a two-story meditation hall, eight permanent structures with steel roofs, steel bridges, and various temporary buildings—24 constructions in total. These structures were erected without any permissions, contravening the national forest reserve regulations and the Building Control Act mandated by the Bung Nam Tao Subdistrict Administrative Organisation. As a result, all buildings and the surrounding area were confiscated, with legal actions imminent against the monk and his followers. Locals had raised alarms about the encroachments, which spurred the investigation and subsequent raid. Authorities discovered a network of concrete roads and substantial, permanent buildings, suggesting a significant breach of regulations. Such findings required immediate intervention to halt any further illegal activities and preserve the national forest reserve. Moving forward, the area will face rigorous legal scrutiny as the involved parties are charged per the law. The Forest Department actively encourages the public to report any similar illegal land use or forest intrusions. In a related event, officers from Phu Khiao Wildlife Sanctuary revealed another case of alleged encroachment involving monks from a prominent temple in Chaiyaphum, highlighting a broader issue of unauthorized land use in protected areas. Photo courtesy: KhaoSod -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Black Panther Spotted at Kaeng Krachan National Park Picture courtesy of บ้านกร่างแคมป์ อุทยานแห่งชาติแก่งกระจาน Facebook A rare black panther sighting has excited tourists and wildlife enthusiasts at Thailand’s Kaeng Krachan National Park in Phetchaburi province. The elusive animal was spotted by tourists calmly walking along the road to Panoen Thung, showing no fear of nearby vehicles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330112-black-panther-spotted-at-kaeng-krachan-national-park/

A rare black panther sighting has excited tourists and wildlife enthusiasts at Thailand’s Kaeng Krachan National Park in Phetchaburi province. The elusive animal was spotted by tourists calmly walking along the road to Panoen Thung, showing no fear of nearby vehicles. Mongkol Chaiphakdee, head of the national park, confirmed that a tourist named Amy captured images of two black panthers near Kilometre 20 on the way to Panoen Thung. Amy recounted the surreal experience of seeing the big cats strolling without any panic in their natural habitat before they gradually vanished into the dense forest. Mongkol explained that the presence of black panthers and leopards around Panoen Thung has been under study for years. Since 2013, camera traps have been installed in strategic locations around Ban Krang and Panoen Thung to monitor these rare creatures. Research conducted over the past decade has revealed a population of approximately 10 black panthers and leopards in the area. “Spotting a black panther in the wild is a stroke of luck since these animals are notoriously difficult to find,” Mongkol noted. “They are generally not dangerous to humans and tend to avoid contact by retreating into the forest if they encounter people.” National park officials advise tourists to remain in their vehicles upon spotting these majestic creatures. It’s recommended not to honk or create loud noises, simply waiting for the animals to move away from the road to ensure safety for both visitors and wildlife. “The experience of witnessing such a rare sight is overwhelming for visitors. Seeing black panthers in their natural habitat is a unique opportunity,” added Mongkol. The Department of National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) also shared photographs of the black panthers on its Facebook page, sparking considerable enthusiasm among wildlife enthusiasts and prompting many to consider visiting the park. TOP Picture courtesy of บ้านกร่างแคมป์ อุทยานแห่งชาติแก่งกระจาน Facebook -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Couple found dead in car in Bangkok's Suan Luang district Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a tragic incident, a couple was discovered dead inside their parked car on Phatthanakan Soi 12, near Isan Tawandang Restaurant in the Suan Luang District of Bangkok. The vehicle’s engine had been running until the fuel was exhausted, and early indications suggest the pair may have succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330111-couple-found-dead-in-car-in-bangkoks-suan-luang-district/

In a tragic incident, a couple was discovered dead inside their parked car on Phatthanakan Soi 12, near Isan Tawandang Restaurant in the Suan Luang District of Bangkok. The vehicle’s engine had been running until the fuel was exhausted, and early indications suggest the pair may have succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning. Police Lieutenant Sirichai Kaewprasith from Khlong Tan Police Station arrived at the scene around 8.20pm yesterday, accompanied by Police Colonel Wachirakorn Wongboon and Ruam Katanyu Foundation volunteers. The white Mazda sedan, bearing the licence plate ชภ 6664 Bangkok, contained the bodies of 27-year-old Vilaiwan Wantana and 24-year-old Niroj Phonphan, both employees at Isan Tawandang Restaurant. Vilaiwan, a dancer, was reclined in the driver’s seat, while Niroj, a waiter, occupied the passenger seat. Preliminary forensic examinations conducted by experts from Chulalongkorn Hospital and the Central Forensic Science Division of the Royal Thai Police revealed no visible injuries. The bodies have been estimated as lifeless for approximately 12 hours before discovery. Further autopsies will be conducted to confirm the exact cause of death. CCTV footage confirmed the couple leaving the restaurant around 2am, shortly after closing time. Vilaiwan and Niroj entered the car, which was later found parked with its fuel tank empty. Vilaiwan’s brother, Vatcharachai Chupan, reported his sister missing after she failed to return home. Initially, he had assumed she was still at the restaurant, as it was common for her to take a taxi home when inebriated. Upon realising she was not at her boyfriend's either and growing increasingly worried, he returned to the car in the evening and found both occupants dead, prompting him to contact the police. Authorities now await the detailed autopsy results to shed light on the precise circumstances surrounding the deaths. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Temple’s Electricity Bill Mystery: Abbot Confounded by Asterisks Picture courtesy: Sanook The abbot of Wat Pa Amphawan Khunanusorn in Buriram found himself perplexed when the temple’s latest electricity bill lacked both the FT charge and the total amount due, displaying only asterisks instead. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330110-temple’s-electricity-bill-mystery-abbot-confounded-by-asterisks/

The abbot of Wat Pa Amphawan Khunanusorn in Buriram found himself perplexed when the temple’s latest electricity bill lacked both the FT charge and the total amount due, displaying only asterisks instead. This incongruous bill has left the abbot and the temple’s supporters unsure of how to proceed with the payment. Phra Ajarn Lesak Varrasapho, the abbot of Wat Pa Amphawan Khunanusorn in Nang Rong District, took to social media to express his bewilderment. He posted an image of the bill along with a puzzled message: “The electricity bill is 10,000 baht, but Wat Pa Amphawan… pays 0 baht… confused… dazed…” When reporters visited the temple to investigate, Phra Ajarn Lesak showed them the infamous bill for May, which conspicuously lacked both an FT charge and a total payment amount. Picture courtesy: Sanook Normally, the temple pays between 3,000 to 4,000 baht each month, with this amount fluctuating based on the number of religious activities, funerals, or training sessions conducted. The temple covers these costs through donations from the local community. Typically, the electricity bill is handed over to donors who contribute towards these expenses. However, due to the mysterious asterisks on the latest bill, it remains unclear how much the temple actually owes. Phra Ajarn Lesak plans to take the bewildering bill to the electricity authority for clarification. He hopes to find out what caused the error and to determine the correct amount owed for the month. The abbot also urges officials to meticulously check bills before issuing them to avoid such confusion in the future. The incident has highlighted the importance of accurate billing and the potential complications that can arise from even minor errors. Picture courtesy: Sanook -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Monk Shocks Community with Violent Killing at Temple Picture via Facebook/ หนังสือพิมพ์รายวัน.สยามประชา In a shocking event, a Thai monk named Suntree has confessed to murdering Suppapong, a man seeking food at Khao Peep Temple in Chumphon Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330104-thai-monk-shocks-community-with-violent-killing-at-temple/

In a shocking event, a Thai monk named Suntree has confessed to murdering Suppapong, a man seeking food at Khao Peep Temple in Chumphon Province. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about the sanctity of a place meant for peace and spiritual solace. Suppapong’s wife, Onpreya, had raised the alarm after her husband vanished on June 14, believing he had sought refuge at the temple. Initially, the monks, Suntree and his father Had, denied seeing the missing man. However, Suppapong’s body was discovered on June 15 in a pond within a nearby palm plantation, just 200 metres from the temple. He had been viciously stabbed multiple times in the face—unusually, the weapon was identified as a sharp steel object rather than a knife. Police interrogated the monks on June 18. Initial accounts suggested that Had and his son would typically collect food offerings at 5:30 a.m. and return by 8:30 a.m. However, security footage highlighted discrepancies: Had returned to the temple significantly earlier than Suntree on the day of the murder. Additionally, police noticed suspicious scratch marks on Suntree’s shoulder, which he dismissed as mosquito bites. After intense questioning, lasting over two hours, Suntree broke down and confessed. He narrated that Suppapong frequently awaited food leftovers at the temple. On the fateful day, the monk, not having eaten himself, requested Suppapong to wait. An argument ensued when Suppapong insisted on being served immediately, resulting in a violent confrontation in which Suntree used a stainless-steel spoon to fatally stab the man. Despite admitting to the assault, Suntree denied any involvement in moving the body to the plantation, leaving the police with unanswered questions. Following his confession, Suntree was ordered to disrobe and face legal actions. Reports indicate that Suntree had struggled with mental health issues since a car accident in his youth, often experiencing uncontrollable anger episodes. Future plans suggest that after serving his sentence, Suntree might return to his home province of Udon Thani, where arrangements could be made for him to receive plots of land to lead a stable life. The incident has severely tarnished the monk's reputation and cast a shadow over the otherwise serene environment of Khao Peep Temple. Picture via Facebook/ หนังสือพิมพ์รายวัน.สยามประชา -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Indian Tourist's holiday horror: Robbed, Assaulted in Pattaya Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail An Indian tourist was brutally assaulted and robbed in Pattaya early yesterday. Gobi Manimaran, 34, was ambushed by a gang in front of the White Rose Hotel during the early hours. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330103-indian-tourists-holiday-horror-robbed-assaulted-in-pattaya/

An Indian tourist was brutally assaulted and robbed in Pattaya early yesterday. Gobi Manimaran, 34, was ambushed by a gang in front of the White Rose Hotel during the early hours. The attackers pounced without warning, stealing his iPhone 10 and US$50 (approximately 1,750 baht) before fleeing into the night. A passerby, who witnessed the terrifying incident, quickly came to Manimaran's aid. Together, they reported the crime at Pattaya Police Station, keeping hopes high for swift justice. “We need to check the CCTV footage,” declared the helpful bystander. Despite their determination to track down the criminals immediately, the hotel management insisted the police be notified first. The police promptly recorded the incident and dispatched an investigative team to review the hotel's CCTV footage. They assured Manimaran that they would leave no stone unturned in their hunt for the perpetrators. In related developments, Thai Government spokesperson Chai Watcharong recently highlighted the success of a new visa-free policy for Indian tourists, effective from May 11 to November 11. This initiative aims to boost tourism and stimulate Thailand’s economy. Bookings by Indian tourists surged by 60% between 2022 and last year, according to Airbnb data. Searches for accommodations in Thailand by Indian tourists increased by over 200% during major holidays, such as the Holi Festival and Easter this year. The unfortunate incident with Manimaran casts a shadow on efforts to attract more Indian tourists, but authorities remain committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors. Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Palang Pracharath Dismisses Exit Rumours Amidst Political Turbulence Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Today, the Palang Pracharath Party dismissed widespread rumours suggesting their potential expulsion from the Pheu Thai-led coalition government. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330102-palang-pracharath-dismisses-exit-rumours-amidst-political-turbulence/

Today, the Palang Pracharath Party dismissed widespread rumours suggesting their potential expulsion from the Pheu Thai-led coalition government. These whispers have circulated rapidly in recent days, casting shadows over the stability of Thailand’s political landscape. Deputy Prime Minister and Natural Resources & Environment Minister, Patcharawat Wongsuwan, firmly denied any knowledge of such plans. His remarks aimed to quash any notion that the Palang Pracharath, commanded by his brother Prawit Wongsuwan, might be forced out of the coalition abruptly. Adding weight to Patcharawat's statements, Agriculture & Cooperatives Minister Thammanat Prompao, who serves as the Palang Pracharath Secretary-General, asserted that no covert manoeuvre to expel their party was in motion. He underlined that their 40 MPs remain firmly part of the Pheu Thai-led coalition, which holds a total of 314 MPs. Despite these denials, speculation about Palang Pracharath's possible ousting gained traction following de facto Pheu Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra’s public accusation against an unnamed influential figure. Thaksin suggested this individual orchestrated an impeachment attempt against Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Thaksin’s allegation alluded to “the man from a forest home,” a veiled reference believed to point to Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan, who chairs the Five Provinces Bordering Forest Preservation Foundation. This accusation surfaced after a controversial impeachment bid, initiated by 40 senators loyal to Prawit, targeted Prime Minister Srettha. The move followed Srettha’s contentious appointment of Pichit Chuenban, a former convict and Thaksin’s ex-lawyer, as minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office. The impeachment case has since been escalated to the Constitutional Court. These political wrangles underscore the volatile nature of alliance politics in Thailand, leaving many to watch closely how these tensions will unfold. For now, Palang Pracharath stands firm, seeking to dispel any notion of its imminent exclusion from the government. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Soda Bottle Explosion at Nearby Store leaves worker injured Picture courtesy: Khaosod A soda bottle explosion at a local shop has injured a worker, sparking medical professionals to issue safety warnings. The incident took place yesterday when the employee was placing soda bottles into an icebox. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330101-soda-bottle-explosion-at-nearby-store-leaves-worker-injured/

A soda bottle explosion at a local shop has injured a worker, sparking medical professionals to issue safety warnings. The incident took place yesterday when the employee was placing soda bottles into an icebox. One of the bottles unexpectedly exploded, causing glass shards to scrape their hands, resulting in three stitches. The shocking event was shared on the Facebook group "พวกเราคือผู้บริโภค" (We Are Consumers), which posted a video capturing the explosion. The footage, showing two workers carefully arranging soda bottles under a table before placing them into an icebox, has drawn widespread attention. As the bottle exploded, it alarmed everyone in the store. The worker's fingers were cut by the shards, and some glass pieces even struck customers nearby. Per the post, several precautions were already in place: the store was well-ventilated, the bottles were not exposed to direct sunlight, and they were stored in a relatively cool environment under the icebox. Moreover, the bottles were arranged vertically and had not been handled roughly. The soda had been ordered just one to two days prior to the explosion. Comments from concerned netizens suggested that the hot weather could be a factor. One commenter from a wholesale store noted, “Soda contains gas, and when it explodes, glass shards can travel farther than expected. It might be the sudden change from hot to cold temperatures.” Dr. Thapanawong Tangguraivan, an ophthalmologist at Phra Nang Klao Hospital, previously highlighted the dangers associated with soda bottles, especially during hot weather. He explained, “Sodas contain carbon dioxide gas, which adds fizz. In high temperatures, the gas expands and can cause glass bottles to explode.” Dr. Thapanawong stressed that such explosions could result in severe injuries, including blindness or loss of fingers. At-risk individuals include soda factory workers, shopkeepers, and frequent soda consumers. To mitigate these risks, Dr. Thapanawong advised factory workers to handle bottled sodas with extra care, particularly when transporting crates. For shopkeepers and consumers, he recommended storing soda bottles in shady areas and upright in refrigerators. Measures such as avoiding prolonged freezer storage and using a towel-wrapped bottle opener to release gas gradually were also suggested to prevent explosions. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 19 June 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330098-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-19-june-2024/