webfact

Singapore Airlines has announced compensation for passengers following a devastating turbulence incident that left one dead and many injured on a flight from London to Singapore. The airline will provide US$10,000 (approximately £8,200) to passengers who sustained injuries during the severe turbulence on flight SQ321, a Boeing 777-300ER carrying 211 passengers and 18 crew members. The incident occurred last month and resulted in the death of a 73-year-old British man and left several others with critical injuries, including skull, brain, and spine damage. The tragic event forced the plane to make an emergency landing in Bangkok where the injured were quickly transported to local hospitals. Singapore Airlines has issued a statement detailing its compensation plan, which includes $10,000 for those with minor injuries. For passengers more severely affected, tailored compensation packages will be discussed individually. In cases where long-term care is needed, an advance payment of US$25,000 can be requested. In addition to compensation, the airline will refund airfare for all passengers on the flight and provide delay compensation according to EU and UK regulations. Initially, each passenger departing Bangkok received 1,000 Singapore Dollars (approximately £600) to cover immediate expenses. The airline has been arranging for family members of the injured to travel to Bangkok and covering their medical costs. The Singaporean Transport Ministry reported that the aircraft experienced a sudden 54-metre drop in altitude while flying over southern Myanmar, causing violent movements for unbelted passengers. This rapid change in gravitational force contributed to the severity of the injuries. The Transport Safety Investigation Bureau, alongside experts from the US National Transportation Safety Board, FAA, and Boeing, is investigating the cause. According to the Montreal Convention, airlines are obligated to compensate for damage related to passenger injury or death. The maximum liability for each passenger, in this case, could surpass the convention’s limit of US$170,000, depending on the investigation's findings. Singapore Airlines has pledged to review and improve its turbulence handling procedures to prioritise safety, including halting in-flight meal services and hot drink distribution when the seatbelt sign is on. The airline also emphasised that while passengers are encouraged to wear seatbelts at all times, enforcement is only mandatory during turbulence. The investigation is ongoing, and more details are expected to emerge as officials continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Picture courtesy: The Mirror -- 2024-06-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Mixed Reactions to Thailand's Proposed Casino Complexes File photo courtesy: Wikimedia Assistant Director of the Center for Economic and Business Forecasting at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Wichian Kaeosombat, and his team shared the economic impact of opening casino-centric entertainment complexes in Thailand on June 10th, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329549-mixed-reactions-to-thailands-proposed-casino-complexes/

Assistant Director of the Center for Economic and Business Forecasting at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Wichian Kaeosombat, and his team shared the economic impact of opening casino-centric entertainment complexes in Thailand on June 10th, 2024. These proposed entertainment complexes are part of a government initiative. They include a casino, a shopping mall, a five-star hotel, diverse dining options, a convention centre, an amusement park, and other advanced facilities. By 2033, the Thai government plans to establish these complexes in Khlong Toei Pier in Bangkok, Bang Kachao in Samut Prakan, Rayong near Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Wichian highlighted several positive economic outcomes, such as attracting foreign investments, boosting tourism revenue, creating jobs, and increasing government earnings through taxes and fees. These complexes aim to become significant economic drivers. However, the prospective downsides are concerning. Wichian warned of potential increases in underground economy activities, household debt, income inequality, and the social costs linked to gambling addiction. To counter these issues, he recommended strict regulations, rehabilitation programs for gambling addicts, and the allocation of revenues towards social and economic development initiatives by the government. Further insights were gathered from an opinion survey conducted by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce. The survey revealed that 41.6% of respondents disagreed with the proposal, with 19.3% slightly agreeing and 16.4% strongly against it. When asked if they would use the entertainment complexes, 51.3% were strongly against visiting, 22.4% were unsure, and only 10.6% were definitely interested. On an international scale, 46.7% of respondents felt the establishment would not affect Thailand’s image, 42.6% thought it would tarnish the image, and 10.7% believed it would improve the country’s image. As for the preferred locations, 40.9% of respondents chose Phuket, 17.3% favoured Khlong Toei Pier in Bangkok, and 16.6% supported the EEC in Rayong or near Pattaya. File photo courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-06-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Police Raid Major Indian Online Gambling Base Picture courtesy: Khaosod Pattaya police executed a significant raid on a house in Pattaya, uncovering a major Indian online gambling operation. The operation was found to be handling daily transactions worth over 200 million rupees, equivalent to approximately 100 million Thai baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329548-pattaya-police-raid-major-indian-online-gambling-base/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod Pattaya police executed a significant raid on a house in Pattaya, uncovering a major Indian online gambling operation. The operation was found to be handling daily transactions worth over 200 million rupees, equivalent to approximately 100 million Thai baht. Around 12 PM today, June 11th, a coordinated effort by the Chonburi Provincial Police, Pattaya Police, Nongprue Police, the Anti-Transnational Crime Division, and Pattaya Tourist Police led to the raid. Intelligence from local citizens prompted the warrant from the Pattaya Provincial Court to search a house located on Soi Sukhumvit 91/2. On entering the house, the officers discovered nearly 10 Indian men operating computers and taking phone calls for various online gambling games, such as baccarat, poker, slots, and sports betting. An inspection of an upstairs bedroom revealed another group of Indian nationals, who were asleep at the time. Picture courtesy: Khaosod Altogether, 21 Indian nationals were found, including some on student and tourist visas, while others had no passports. None of them possessed legal work visas or permits, which are obviously not available for running illegal gambling activities. The police chose not to disclose their identities. Substantial evidence was seized, including four desktop computers, eight laptops, over 50 mobile phones, and numerous Thai SIM cards. Additionally, three clocks displayed the times in India, the United Arab Emirates (Dubai), and Thailand. Handwritten notes in Hindi detailing work schedules, bank account numbers, and gambling rules plastered on the walls also provided incriminating evidence. The initial questioning of the suspects revealed that they had rented the house for 30,000 baht per month since August 2023. Their primary role was acting as call centre operators, managing money transfers for seven online gambling sites, with servers based in the Philippines. The majority of the clientele were from India and Dubai. Each suspect worked around 8-hour shifts daily. Police disclosed that some of the men entered Thailand legally, while others had overstayed their visas. It is believed that additional suspects managed to evade capture and remain within Chonburi. The detained suspects now face charges related to illegal gambling and immigration offences. Following legal proceedings, they will be deported and permanently blacklisted from Thailand. -- 2024-06-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Scandal: Justice Minister Refuses to Weigh in on Charges Pol.Col. Thawee Sodsong, Minister of Justice. File photo Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong remained tight-lipped regarding the controversial lese majeste charge against former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329547-thaksin-scandal-justice-minister-refuses-to-weigh-in-on-charges/

Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong remained tight-lipped regarding the controversial lese majeste charge against former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The case, which has captivated the nation, saw Tawee insist the Justice Ministry would remain hands-off, stating it was the purview of the attorney general, while Thaksin retained the right to petition for fair treatment. Reporters sought Tawee’s reaction following the revelation by the Office of the Attorney-General (OAG) that Thaksin’s lawyers had lodged a second petition for fairness. This new petition follows the first, submitted on January 17 while Thaksin was still at the Police General Hospital, just before his early parole release in February. Despite this effort, Attorney-General Amnat Jetcharoenrakl proceeded with the indictment related to the 74-year-old premier’s 2015 interview in South Korea. The OAG recently announced that Thaksin would face an indictment hearing next Tuesday, June 18. Thaksin’s second petition alleges interference in the police investigation by the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) junta, which took power after the 2014 coup, asserting that investigators were intimidated by the NCPO. Over the weekend, Thaksin vehemently denied the charges, describing them as “poison fruit from the poison tree” of the 2014 coup. Although Tawee is known for his close ties with the Shinawatra family, his current role as justice minister in the Pheu Thai-led government, a successor of Thaksin’s Thai Rak Thai Party, did not influence his stance. Tawee firmly stated that the Justice Ministry had no jurisdiction over Thaksin’s legal case. “The attorney-general will have the final say.” When pressed on whether the lese majesty and computer crime charges were justified, he declined to comment, reiterating that Thaksin had the right to contest the charges through legal channels. Thaksin faces these charges for allegedly accusing members of the Privy Council, advisors to the monarch, of orchestrating the 2014 coup that overthrew his sister Yingluck’s administration. Pol.Col. Thawee Sodsong, Minister of Justice. File photo -- 2024-06-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

"Wai" Recognised as Part of Thai National Identity Picture courtesy: Wikimedia The Thai government has officially recognised the "wai" gesture as a key part of national identity. The Cabinet's decision aims to preserve and promote this traditional greeting, which holds significant cultural value in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329546-wai-recognised-as-part-of-thai-national-identity/

Picture courtesy: Wikimedia The Thai government has officially recognised the "wai" gesture as a key part of national identity. The Cabinet's decision aims to preserve and promote this traditional greeting, which holds significant cultural value in Thailand. The "wai" gesture, characterised by pressing the palms together in a prayer-like fashion, has been an integral part of Thai life for centuries. While its origins trace back to India through Buddhist, Brahmin, and Hindu influences, the Thai "wai" has evolved to carry unique nuances, reflecting the nation's heritage. Deputy government spokesman Karom Pholpornklang highlighted the gesture's long-standing presence and its deep-rooted symbolism in Thai society. "The 'wai' has developed in diversity, profoundness, and expressive meaning that make the Thai-style ‘wai’ unique," noted Karom during a press briefing. The approval aims to embed this practice further into the fabric of Thai culture, ensuring it is carried forward by future generations. Previous governments have similarly endeavoured to preserve national symbols, recognising Thai elephants, the Ratchapruek flower (doc koon), and the Thai pavilion as elements of national identity. The inclusion of the "wai" is seen as a continuation of these efforts to define and safeguard cultural icons. While the gesture is omnipresent in daily interactions in Thailand, from casual greetings to formal expressions of respect, its official designation as a part of national identity serves both cultural and educational purposes. Schools and cultural institutions will likely emphasise the significance of the "wai" in their curricula, strengthening its role and persistence in Thai society. In an increasingly globalised world, such measures resonate with the public's desire to maintain distinct cultural practices. This formal recognition stands to not only preserve a tradition but also bolster national pride and unity. Karom concluded by saying, "The idea of making the ‘wai’ part of the Thai national identity is intended to create a unique identity and culture that will be passed on to future generations." -- 2024-06-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Requests Attorney-General to Review Lèse Majesté Charge Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has made a renewed plea to the attorney-general to reconsider a lèse majesté charge against him. Thaksin, who has recently been paroled, is seeking to avoid the indictment set for June 18. This follows an initial failure to attend a court hearing on May 29, citing a COVID-19 infection. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329545-thaksin-requests-attorney-general-to-review-lèse-majesté-charge/

Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has made a renewed plea to the attorney-general to reconsider a lèse majesté charge against him. Thaksin, who has recently been paroled, is seeking to avoid the indictment set for June 18. This follows an initial failure to attend a court hearing on May 29, citing a COVID-19 infection. Attorney-General Amnat Chotcharoenrak decided to charge Thaksin based on an interview he gave to a South Korean media outlet in 2015, which allegedly contained remarks insulting to the monarchy. Thaksin is also facing accusations related to the Computer Crime Act alongside the lèse majesté charge. In this latest petition, Thaksin argues that the original investigation was compromised. He claims that the committee, led by former Attorney-General Trakul Winitchaipark, acted under the influence of the military junta that was in power at the time. During a recent visit to Pathum Thani to attend an ordination ceremony, Thaksin told reporters that he was unfairly accused by an investigation tainted by bias. Describing the charge as the "fruit of a toxic tree," he emphasised that the officers involved were not independent. In response, former Attorney-General Trakul Winitchaipark took to Facebook to deny Thaksin's allegations. "I would like to confirm, with the honour of a man, that no one ever coerced or persuaded me to perform my duty wrongfully," he stated, upholding the integrity of his actions as per Section 20 of the Criminal Procedural Code, which applies to cases occurring outside the country. This unfolding situation continues to garner significant attention as Thaksin's request demands deliberation from the current attorney-general. The coming weeks will reveal how these legal challenges will progress and their broader implications for Thailand's political landscape. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 12 June 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1329543-thailand-live-wednesday-12-june-2024/

Public Health Department Calls for Public Opinion on Reclassifying Cannabis Amid Protests File photo for reference only Thailand's Minister of Public Health, Somsak Thepsuthin, proposed a change to the country's laws on narcotics possession. The proposed amendment suggests lowering the number of methamphetamine pills from five to one that an individual can carry legally. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329499-public-health-department-calls-for-public-opinion-on-reclassifying-cannabis-amid-protests/

Thai girl in critical condition after 1,000 baht drinking challenge Photo via Facebook/ สำนักข่าวไอเอ็นเอ็น : innnews A 13 year old Thai girl remains in critical condition in an intensive care unit after being challenged to drink alcohol to win 1,000 baht at an ordination ceremony at a temple in the Isaan province of Nakhon Ratchasima. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329479-thai-girl-in-critical-condition-after-1000-baht-drinking-challenge/

Thailand’s private sector is urging the government to address the supply side of tourism after Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced the suspension of a proposed 300-baht fee for foreign tourists. This fee was intended to establish a tourism development fund. Tourism industry demands action amid 300-baht fee controversy Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329521-tourism-industry-demands-action-amid-300-baht-fee-controversy/ Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

7-Eleven restroom use in Thailand depends on branch discretion by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of CK Travels Customers wondering whether they can use the restroom in the popular convenience store 7-Eleven during an emergency now have an answer. While in some countries customers can freely access store restrooms, the policy in Thailand is less straightforward. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329467-7-eleven-restroom-use-in-thailand-depends-on-branch-discretion/

Customers wondering whether they can use the restroom in the popular convenience store 7-Eleven during an emergency now have an answer. While in some countries customers can freely access store restrooms, the policy in Thailand is less straightforward. A query was recently posted on the website pantip.com, where a user asked, “Can we ask to use the restroom at 7-Eleven?” The individual explained that they often drive long distances and sometimes stop at 7-Eleven to buy items before reaching their workplace. They wanted to know if it would be possible to use the restroom at the store. The response came from an official 7-Eleven account, Nong Pao 7-Eleven. “Permission to use the restroom at 7-Eleven depends on the discretion of the specific branch. Due to the large number of products within each store, it may not be convenient to provide restroom services. We apologise for any inconvenience.” Many netizens chimed in with their opinions, mostly agreeing that one should not request to use the restroom in 7-Eleven stores. They pointed out that these areas are usually restricted to staff and that Thailand offers numerous free public restrooms. Additionally, restrooms are available at gas stations along the highways, providing ample options for those travelling long distances. However, some users shared experiences of being allowed to use the restroom at 7-Eleven. They mentioned informing the staff about their need, and the employees permitted them to access the restroom inside the store. In the northeastern region of Thailand, some netizens noted that certain 7-Eleven branches, specifically franchise stores operated by Ying Yong Minimart Co., Ltd., have marked restroom signs. These restrooms are accessible to customers without the need to ask for permission, reported Sanook. In related news, the Tourist Police Bureau, in partnership with CP All Public Company Limited, is rolling out a new initiative to boost tourist safety with the help of 7-Eleven convenience stores. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of CK Travels Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Health Minister Dismisses Cannabis Protests Amid Reclassification Talks Picture courtesy: Wizman420 Public Health Minister, Somsak Thepsutin, has downplayed recent protests against the reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329461-health-minister-dismisses-cannabis-protests-amid-reclassification-talks/

Public Health Minister, Somsak Thepsutin, has downplayed recent protests against the reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic. Yesterday, about 300 pro-cannabis demonstrators, led by Prasitthichai Nunual of the People’s Network for Cannabis Legalisation in Thailand, gathered outside Government House. They voiced opposition to potential legal changes which are part of the government’s reconsideration of cannabis regulations. Somsak acknowledged the protesters' right to demonstrate but mentioned that the Prime Minister has not issued any special directives regarding the ongoing rally or cannabis regulation. He reaffirmed that the government is open to medicinal cannabis use and recognises its economic benefits. He assured that business operators will be given ample time to adjust to new regulations should cannabis be reclassified. Amid concerns over a potential reclassification, Somsak indicated that discussions are ongoing. He urged the public to adhere to current laws until any official changes are made. The issue of a regulating bill remains uncertain if cannabis is reclassified. Cannabis was decriminalised in Thailand in 2022, championed by the Bhumjaithai Party as part of their 2019 electoral campaign. However, decriminalisation happened before necessary regulatory legislation was enacted, raising concerns about substance abuse, especially among the youth. A cannabis and hemp bill initially supported by the Bhumjaithai Party failed to pass in its second reading in the last parliament. The new Pheu Thai-led government is now considering reclassifying cannabis as a narcotic, leading to speculation that a specific law to control its use may be unnecessary. Advocacy groups, led by Prasitthichai, have stated they will continue to press for regulation. “If the government reverses the decision, we demand a public consultation. Cannabis is no worse than tobacco or alcohol and has medicinal properties,” stated Prasitthichai. Deputy Prime Minister and Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul emphasised the importance of considering both sides of the argument. When asked about controlling specific parts of the cannabis plant, he directed the question to the public health minister. Picture courtesy: Wizman420 -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Domestic violence makes up 70% of recent cases in Thailand by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Social Development and Human Security Minister Varawut Silpa-archa intensified efforts to curb domestic violence, highlighting the issue as a major concern in recent months. Domestic violence constituted almost 70% of all reported violence cases in the past two months. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329460-domestic-violence-makes-up-70-of-recent-cases-in-thailand/

Social Development and Human Security Minister Varawut Silpa-archa intensified efforts to curb domestic violence, highlighting the issue as a major concern in recent months. Domestic violence constituted almost 70% of all reported violence cases in the past two months. Varawut announced yesterday, June 10, following a meeting with senior ministry officials, that the Human Security Emergency Management Centre is ramping up its initiatives to safeguard citizens facing domestic challenges. This includes establishing a 24/7 rapid deployment task force to assist people nationwide. The Human Security Emergency Management Centre’s recent report for April and May disclosed significant findings. According to the report, a survey was conducted involving 6,655 individuals receiving state aid. Key problems identified among these individuals included insufficient income, strained domestic relationships, and violence. The data revealed that a total of 410 violence victims were recorded in April and May, with 281 cases identified as domestic violence. The victims included 302 females, 108 males, and 223 children, said Varawut. “Violence against children and the elderly occurred exclusively within the family, with most cases involving physical assault.” Varawut emphasised that the fragility of family relationships is increasing, necessitating more proactive measures from the ministry to mitigate domestic violence, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRC) delivered a stark wake-up call as alarming statistics reveal a grim reality: seven women become victims of sexual assault and abuse daily in Thailand. Pornprapai Ganjanarintr, chairperson of the NHRC, issued a resounding plea for gender equality across all sectors. In a society riddled with patriarchal structures, Ganjanarintr highlighted the harrowing repercussions, including pervasive domestic violence and sexual assault. In other news, a rider consumed by jealousy violently attacked his girlfriend with a knife, leaving her severely injured and locked inside a rented room in Pathum Thani. Her cries for help alerted neighbours, who then called her son to rescue her and rush her to the hospital just in time. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand takes flight with airlines to boost tourism in 2024 by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of NNT The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is soaring to new heights, actively courting partnerships with a sky-high count of 11 international airlines to elevate both burgeoning and established markets in the latter part of this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329459-thailand-takes-flight-with-airlines-to-boost-tourism-in-2024/

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is soaring to new heights, actively courting partnerships with a sky-high count of 11 international airlines to elevate both burgeoning and established markets in the latter part of this year. With the long-haul market expected to fly in at least 770 billion baht from a soaring flock of 10.8 million foreign visitors in 2024, TAT Deputy Governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, is piloting the agency’s strategy to harness airlines from these regions to propel Thailand’s tourism to stratospheric levels. The marketing blueprint for the latter half of the year is set to take off, concentrating on ascending and seasoned markets, ensuring Thailand remains the top destination for jet-setters worldwide. Among the long-haul sectors, six rising markets showed significant growth in the initial five months of 2024, Poland (65.2%), Italy (48%), Saudi Arabia (27.6%), Denmark (26%), Canada (23%), and Kazakhstan (17.6%). Additionally, five mature markets recorded gains during the same period and need to be sustained, France (38.7%), Germany (32%), the UK (22.6%), Russia (14.8%), and the US (14.3%). As of yesterday, summer flight slots for most markets have already surpassed pre-pandemic levels, with the Middle East leading at 141%, followed by Europe (103%) and Africa (81.3%). Need for cooperation Siripakorn highlighted the need for improved cooperation with airlines, as several countries continue to face challenges with limited seat capacity and high airfares. The agency plans to negotiate with airlines to combine airline seats with holiday packages or offer special rates for long-stay travellers, aligning with Thailand’s updated visa policy, which permits longer stays of up to 60 days for citizens from 93 countries. Two airlines, including Air Canada, have agreed to offer long-stay airfares to attract tourists to spend more time in Thailand. Air Canada is set to launch direct flights between Vancouver and Bangkok starting in October. For the European winter season, multiple airlines have confirmed new direct flights to Thailand. Spanish-Portugese charter airline, Iberojet, is operating seven weekly charter flights between Madrid and Bangkok. Additionally, Condor, a German leisure airline, is flying four times weekly between Frankfurt and Bangkok, as well as Frankfurt and Phuket. British Airways plans to initiate three direct flights per week from London Gatwick to Bangkok starting in October. Finnair will provide direct flights from Helsinki to Bangkok and Phuket beginning in November, with 19 to 20 flights per week combined on these routes. Southern tourism In Kazakhstan, SCAT Airlines began services from Almaty to Surat Thani on May 30. Thai Airways is set to restart Bangkok-Milan and Bangkok-Oslo services on July 1. Siripakorn also mentioned that Thai AirAsia X, a long-haul low-cost carrier, plans to launch flights to four European cities during its winter season, reported Bangkok Post. “Such negotiations with airlines were not possible the past few years when the aviation sector had very limited seats, forcing all carriers to sell expensive tickets. However, with more aircraft deliveries globally, airlines are now looking for opportunities to expand their networks, which means it is the right time to partner with Thailand, which still has strong tourism demand.” by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of NNT Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fire at Chatuchak Market destroys 118 shops, kills 1,000 animals by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Khaosod A devastating fire broke out in the pet section of Chatuchak Market early this morning, destroying 118 shops and resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,000 animals. The fire, which started at around 4.30am, left employees scrambling for safety as thick smoke filled the area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329458-fire-at-chatuchak-market-destroys-118-shops-kills-1000-animals/

A devastating fire broke out in the pet section of Chatuchak Market early this morning, destroying 118 shops and resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,000 animals. The fire, which started at around 4.30am, left employees scrambling for safety as thick smoke filled the area. Deputy Inspector of Bang Sue Police Station, Police Lieutenant Natthaphong Piyananwanich, received the fire report and promptly coordinated a response with over ten fire engines and volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation. The fire occurred at the Sri Somrat Market area, a hub for pet and exotic fish shops. Despite the rapid response, the fire spread quickly, consuming all 118 shops in the vicinity. Witnesses described the chaos as the fire erupted. A shop employee, 36 year old Meecha recounted her harrowing escape. “I was sleeping in the loft above the shop when I heard the cries of various animals. Suddenly, thick smoke filled the air, making it impossible to breathe.” She climbed through a window and jumped to safety. Meecha’s shop housed rare birds, including a prized cockatoo valued at 30,000 baht. The shop owner, informed of the incident, was on their way to the site. Animals worth millions Another shop owner, 54 year old Sakda expressed his relief that his shop across the road was spared. His shop specialises in imported exotic animals, with each animal valued upwards of 100,000 baht. He mentioned that the affected shops sold similar items, with the fire originating from a corner shop that had recently transitioned from selling birds to small dog breeds such as poodles, Shih Tzus, and Pomeranians. Sakda speculated that an electrical short circuit, possibly from a fan left running overnight for the dogs, might have sparked the blaze. The aftermath The fire caused significant loss of life among the animals, including ornamental fish, cats, dogs, and various exotic animals like swans, birds, and monkeys, all imported and highly valued. Fortunately, there were no human casualties reported. The Chatuchak District Office has set up a registration desk for shop owners to document their losses, and officials from the Forensic Science Division are expected to investigate the cause of the fire further. The incident has raised concerns about safety measures and the welfare of animals in such markets. The local community and officials are now focusing on assessing the damage and investigating to prevent future occurrences, reported Khaosod. This tragic event underscores the vulnerability of such markets to fires and the devastating impact they can have on both human and animal lives. Chatuchak Market, known for its vast array of pets and exotic animals, now faces a significant recovery period as shop owners and officials work to rebuild and ensure better safety standards in the future. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Khaosod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe