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Chiang Mai and multiple northern provinces in Thailand are contending with alarmingly high air pollution levels. According to the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), 11 provinces experienced dangerously high red-coded PM2.5 levels. Pollution figures ranged from 82.1 to 158.8 microgrammes per cubic metre in 24 hours, significantly higher than the safe limit of 37.5 µg/m3. Among the northern provinces, Chiang Rai reported the worst PM2.5 level at 158.8, with Chiang Mai close behind at 141.9. Further, unhealthy orange-coded PM2.5 levels were found in 46 other provinces, primarily in the Central Plains and northeast, with readings from 38.2 to 67.6 µg/m3. Meanwhile, east and south provinces reported good to moderate air quality, with the best air in Phuket and Phangnga at 15.3µg/m³ and 15.7µg/m³ respectively. Swiss tech company IQAir, which specializes in air quality, confirmed the severity of the issue by ranking Chiang Mai the world's fourth most polluted city, trailing Delhi, Lahore, and Kathmandu. This report underscores the urgent need for actions to curb escalating air pollution levels. File photo courtesy of Thaiger -- 2024-05-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Belgian Biker Dies in Thai Traffic Incident Picture courtesy ot TPN news A Belgian man tragically died in a traffic accident while riding his motorcycle in northeastern Thailand's Roi Et province on the night of May 4th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326693-belgian-biker-dies-in-thai-traffic-incident/

A Belgian man tragically died in a traffic accident while riding his motorcycle in northeastern Thailand's Roi Et province on the night of May 4th. The motorcyclist, identified as 67-year-old Jan Remi Van Welden, lost his life on Arun Prasert Road near the Khee Lek area entrance in the Pathumrat district around 10:00 PM. Local police and rescue personnel from Asoke Kasetwisai Foundation, alongside medical staff from Pathumrat Hospital, turned up at the crash site, where they found a white Triumph motorcycle with a storage box attached to the rear lying on a bridge. Nearby, they located Mr. Van Welden's severely injured body, which displayed signs including a fractured skull suggesting he might have been hit by a vehicle. However, preliminary searches by Pathumrat police did not reveal any collision indications or debris from another vehicle at the accident scene. The area was cordoned off and evidence was collected for further investigation, with the cause of the crash still yet to be determined. Mr. Van Welden's body was later taken to a local hospital while the police began the process of reaching out to his family and embassy. Picture courtesy ot TPN news -- 2024-05-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Govt Challenged to Remove Central Bank Governor Amidst Digital Wallet Dispute Dr. Setthaput Suthiwatnarueput Governor of the Bank of Thailand (BoT). Picture courtesy of Thairath The Democrat Party spokesperson, Ramet Ratanachaweng, has dared the Pheu Thai-led government to sack Bank of Thailand Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput over a disagreement concerning a digital wallet project. The project, initiated by Pheu Thai, plans to give 50 million Thai nationals a 10,000-baht digital wallet for shopping in their home district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326692-govt-challenged-to-remove-central-bank-governor-amidst-digital-wallet-dispute/

The Democrat Party spokesperson, Ramet Ratanachaweng, has dared the Pheu Thai-led government to sack Bank of Thailand Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput over a disagreement concerning a digital wallet project. The project, initiated by Pheu Thai, plans to give 50 million Thai nationals a 10,000-baht digital wallet for shopping in their home district. Gov Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput raised objections to the project, suggesting that it may lead to unnecessary public debt. The governor's remarks received criticism from Pheu Thai leader, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, accusing him of blocking national economic development. The controversy sparked when the governor suggested scaling down the digital wallet recipients to state welfare cardholders and vulnerable groups only. This proposal would leave some financial cushion for emergencies, he argued. Despite the disagreement, the Pheu Thai-led government has revealed plans to split the 500-billion-baht funding for the digital wallet project into three batches. This includes 175 billion baht from the current fiscal year's budget, 152.7 billion baht from next year's budget, and 172.3 billion baht borrowed from the Bank for Agriculture & Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC). In response, Ratanachaweng raised concerns over apparent attempts by Pheu Thai to reduce the central bank governor's powers. He added the governor should freely express his views without political influence, honoring the international principle of central bank freedom. The opposition anticipates public outrage if the governor is dismissed. TOP: Dr. Setthaput Suthiwatnarueput Governor of the Bank of Thailand (BoT). Picture courtesy of Thairath -- 2024-05-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 7 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1326691-thailand-live-tuesday-7-may-2024/

Thailand boasts three of the top 100 beaches globally, according to BeachAtlas, a UK-based startup focusing on beach information. The beaches include famous Maya Bay, which came in fifth on the 2024 Golden Beach Award list. Visitors flock to Maya Bay for its stunning blue waters, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful white sands. Despite the one-hour speedboat trip from Phuket or Krabi, the beach sees between 4-5,000 visitors daily. Three Thai Beaches Make it to the World's Top 100 List Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326672-three-thai-beaches-make-it-to-the-worlds-top-100-list/ File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Unsplash

Unidentified Handcuffed Woman Found Dead Near Chi River File foto courtesy of Wikipedia for reference only A mysterious death has been reported in Roi Et Province, where an unidentified woman was found lifeless near the Chi River. The body, discovered in a scrubland area near the waterway, was found with her hands handcuffed behind her back, leading to suspicions of foul play. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326654-unidentified-handcuffed-woman-found-dead-near-chi-river/

File foto courtesy of Wikipedia for reference only A mysterious death has been reported in Roi Et Province, where an unidentified woman was found lifeless near the Chi River. The body, discovered in a scrubland area near the waterway, was found with her hands handcuffed behind her back, leading to suspicions of foul play. The woman, thought to be aged between 40-50 and with distinctive braided long hair, was dressed in a navy long-sleeved shirt with yellow stripes and tartan-patterned capris. She had no identification documents on her, presenting a challenge to authorities attempting to identify her. The body, estimated to have been deceased for at least 48 hours, was found on May 5 sparking a major investigation by the local police who are striving both to identify the woman and to determine her cause of death. While her body has been sent for an autopsy, the police are also putting efforts into locating her relatives and further understanding the circumstances around her death. Owing to the absence of any identification, they are also urging the public to share any relevant information that could assist in notifying the woman’s family. The handcuffed state of the woman raises deeper questions about the events leading up to her death, pointing towards possible foul play. As the investigation progresses, officials are appealing for anyone who could shed light on her identity or provide information about her demise to come forward. -- 2024-05-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Navy Officers Heroically Aid Traffic Accident Victim in Chon Buri Picture courtesy of Facbook Pattaya News Four Royal Thai Navy (RTN) officers from Sattahip Naval Base swiftly jumped into action following a traffic accident between a motorcyclist and a bus in Chon Buri. The officers were on routine patrol when they spotted a Thai man aged 48, injured and trapped under the searing sun. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326649-navy-officers-heroically-aid-traffic-accident-victim-in-chon-buri/

Picture courtesy of Facbook Pattaya News Four Royal Thai Navy (RTN) officers from Sattahip Naval Base swiftly jumped into action following a traffic accident between a motorcyclist and a bus in Chon Buri. The officers were on routine patrol when they spotted a Thai man aged 48, injured and trapped under the searing sun. The accident had occurred at 3pm on April 30 and quickly created a buzz on social media. The officers, including both men and women, rushed to shield the man from the sun's rays. They got an umbrella from a nearby store and used a fan to reduce his body temperature, an important measure to prevent heatstroke. Simultaneously, Lieutenant Prapaphon Samphawaphon, another officer present at the scene, called for medical assistance from the Sawang Rojathantham Sattahip Foundation rescue team, as the other officers controlled traffic to avert additional mishaps. The officers' selflessness didn't stop there. They stood by the injured man's side, comforting him until the rescue team arrived, enduring the relentless sun for more than 30 minutes according to observers. The scene was captured on video and circulated on social media, also acting to increase public admiration for the officers who acted promptly and selflessly. Their daring and kindhearted act demonstrates the enduring spirit of humanity, even in trying times. -- 2024-05-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Chinese Businessmen Extorted in Bangkok; Police Officers Among Suspects Picture courtesy or MGR Five Chinese businessmen were forcibly detained and extorted for 2.5 million baht in Bangkok on May 5. The extortion perpetrators, according to the Din Daeng police, included active and retired Thai law enforcement officers and civilians. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326631-chinese-interpreter-with-gang-ties-arrested-in-thailand-kidnap-case/?do=findComment&comment=18894121

Chinese Businessmen Extorted in Bangkok; Police Officers Among Suspects Picture courtesy or MGR Five Chinese businessmen were forcibly detained and extorted for 2.5 million baht in Bangkok on May 5. The extortion perpetrators, according to the Din Daeng police, included active and retired Thai law enforcement officers and civilians. The incident began on April 25 within a Bangkok hotel where four Thai men coerced the businessmen into accompanying them. The plot hinged on a deceptive digital currency deal worth US$65,000 or 2.5 million baht. The businessmen believed they were being arrested by police officers involved in the scheme, during which they were instructed to pay 5 million baht, later reduced to 2.5 million. Upon investigating, police obtained arrest warrants for seven suspects, two active police officers, a retired officer, and four civilians. At a recent press conference, it was announced the arrest of five people including the ringleader, retired officer Atthawut, from the Khan Na Yao Police Force. Also arrested were Theerachai, Nophasin, Police Sergeant Phuwadet, and Jarunet. Virayuth, a fugitive, is currently on the run. He's an active police officer suspected of playing a key role in the scheme. The extorted money, following completion of the transaction, was divided into 11 parts reflecting their roles. Thai criminal court has issued two more arrest warrants as the investigation continues to bring the remaining suspects to justice. -- 2024-05-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Summer Storm Topple Billboards, Poles in Hat Yai Picture courtesy of Siam Rath On 5th May 2024, Hat Yai, Songkhla, witnessed a severe storm that knocked down sizeable billboards and power poles. Thankfully, no injuries were reported amidst the chaos. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326643-summer-storm-topple-billboards-poles-in-hat-yai/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath On 5th May 2024, Hat Yai, Songkhla, witnessed a severe storm that knocked down sizeable billboards and power poles. Thankfully, no injuries were reported amidst the chaos. With the concern for public safety, Hat Yai Municipality urged locals to evade the Manohra intersection area, which posed a potential risk to both drivers and pedestrians. Agencies were quickly deployed to secure and block the hazard zone. Local reports revealed that over ten power poles were knocked down in the storm, one of which struck a pickup truck with five passengers on board. Fortuitously, all passengers escaped unscathed. Taking prompt action on the situation, Hat Yai City Mayor, Pol. Lt. Gen. Sakorn Thongmunee, liaised with the Hat Yai Provincial Electricity Authority and related agencies. They were tasked to assess the damage to property and safety and to ensure further help if needed. The Songkhla Governor has prioritised these issues, seeking assistance from all sectors to address them. He also initiated plans for precautionary measures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents, confirmed the Mayor of Hat Yai City. -- 2024-05-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chinese Tourists Revive Thailand Tourism Using ED Visa Picture courtesy of Siam Sport A group of Chinese tourists kickstarted Thailand’s tourism revival over the weekend under the Non-Immigrant ED Visa. The visa, nicknamed the "Non-Ed Visa", allows tourists to stay for 90 days and participate in Muay Thai classes, significantly longer than the previous 60-day limit. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326641-chinese-tourists-revive-thailand-tourism-using-ed-visa/

Picture courtesy of Siam Sport A group of Chinese tourists kickstarted Thailand’s tourism revival over the weekend under the Non-Immigrant ED Visa. The visa, nicknamed the "Non-Ed Visa", allows tourists to stay for 90 days and participate in Muay Thai classes, significantly longer than the previous 60-day limit. This scheme was overseen by Paitoon Chutimakornkul, an advisor to the prime minister and a member of the sports sub-committee. The policy aims to promote Muay Thai and increase its recognition globally, acting as one of Thailand's unique draws. The initiative eliminates the need for tourists to leave their home country to extend their Thailand visas, making it easier for them to enjoy a longer stay. The policy's effectiveness is demonstrated by the broad international interest reflected in numerous enquiries to the Sports Authority of Thailand’s (SAT) Board of Boxing Sport, which provides necessary information for tourists to participate in the programme. Pimol Srivikorn, another advisor to the prime minister, informed that the SAT and his sub-committee recently conducted a second trial to certify Muay Thai trainers, allowing them to teach overseas. Fulfilling necessary requirements, 11 candidates are set to instruct in Saudi Arabia, reflecting the increasing global interest in Muay Thai and Thailand’s commitment to promote the sport internationally. A group of Chinese tourists kickstarted Thailand’s tourism revival over the weekend under the Non-Immigrant ED Visa. The visa, nicknamed the "Non-Ed Visa", allows tourists to stay for 90 days and participate in Muay Thai classes, significantly longer than the previous 60-day limit. This scheme was overseen by Paitoon Chutimakornkul, an advisor to the prime minister and a member of the sports sub-committee. The policy aims to promote Muay Thai and increase its recognition globally, acting as one of Thailand's unique draws. The initiative eliminates the need for tourists to leave their home country to extend their Thailand visas, making it easier for them to enjoy a longer stay. The policy's effectiveness is demonstrated by the broad international interest reflected in numerous enquiries to the Sports Authority of Thailand’s (SAT) Board of Boxing Sport, which provides necessary information for tourists to participate in the programme. Pimol Srivikorn, another advisor to the prime minister, informed that the SAT and his sub-committee recently conducted a second trial to certify Muay Thai trainers, allowing them to teach overseas. Fulfilling necessary requirements, 11 candidates are set to instruct in Saudi Arabia, reflecting the increasing global interest in Muay Thai and Thailand’s commitment to promote the sport internationally. -- 2024-05-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Myanmar man ignores red warning flag, drowns at Kalim beach File photo. Courtesy of Wikipedia A 20-year-old Myanmar man tragically drowned at Kalim Beach, Phuket after ignoring a red warning flag and swimming in the dangerous waters. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326638-myanmar-man-ignores-red-warning-flag-drowns-at-kalim-beach/

File photo. Courtesy of Wikipedia A 20-year-old Myanmar man tragically drowned at Kalim Beach, Phuket after ignoring a red warning flag and swimming in the dangerous waters. Nay Myo Zaw and his friends had intended to relax on the beach. Despite the warning, Zaw and a friend entered the water and got swept off by a rip current. Patong lifeguards, using jet skis, and rescue workers from Kusoldharm Foundation, using a dinghy, reacted promptly to save them but only one was rescued alive. Zaw's lifeless body was found 20 minutes later. In a similar incident at the beach, a 23-year-old Thai woman from Isaan region drowned. The woman, found on the seaside rocks of Kalim, was unresponsive on her way to Patong Hospital. The twin tragedies underline the importance of adhering to safety advisories at the beach. -- 2024-05-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Crops at Risk Due to Climate Change File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Climate change threatens Thailand's agriculture with researchers forecasting a significant decrease in crop yields within the next 70 years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326637-thai-crops-at-risk-due-to-climate-change/

File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Climate change threatens Thailand's agriculture with researchers forecasting a significant decrease in crop yields within the next 70 years. This has initiated calls for governmental action to secure the country's food supply. Economics lecturer, Witsanu Attavanich of Kasetsart University, leads the research project initiated in 2017 that focuses on Thailand's revenue-generating crops. From two scenarios of an increase of 2-3°C or 4.5°C by the century's end, the study demonstrates that rice production could drop by 10.18%-13.33% by 2100. Notably, non-irrigated areas, which form three-quarters of the nation's rice farms, might experience a decrease of 31.9%-42.2%. Other essential crops like sugar cane, cassava, and durian are also projected to face considerable yield reduction in the next 70 years - sugar cane could drop by 25%-35%. However, the research shows that many Thai farmers are ill-prepared for the changes, limited by poor access to innovative farming technology and the elderliness of the farming community, making them the most threatened group. The study also identifies a lack of digital technology infrastructure in rural areas, where primarily the country's 12.6 million farmers reside, as exacerbating the crisis. Attavanich proposes the government invest in small-scale water reserves in isolated areas and foster partnerships with local organisations to provide climate change training for farmers. Withoon Liemchamroon from BioThai Foundation singles out mono-crop plantations as an issue, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and undermining food security. He proposes a return to agroecology, minimising harmful chemicals and fertilisers, and the abolition of mono-crop supporting food monopoly businesses. Climate Change and Environment Department Chief, Pirun Saiyasitpanich, affirms the necessity of climate adaptation plans, identifying food security as a crucial component. Amid the rise in average temperature by 1.1°C with a foreseen 2-3°C jump by century's end, immediate and decisive actions are vital.

Motorcyclist Critically Injured in Tunnel Crash; Gas Truck Overturns causing Traffic Chaos Picture courtesy of Khaosod A motorcycle rider was critically injured today in the Maha Sawat tunnel en route to Dao Khanong. It was reported that he lost control of his bike, and subsequently plunged into a roadside drainage pipe. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326636-motorcyclist-critically-injured-in-tunnel-crash-gas-truck-overturns-causing-traffic-chaos/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod A motorcycle rider was critically injured today in the Maha Sawat tunnel en route to Dao Khanong. It was reported that he lost control of his bike, and subsequently plunged into a roadside drainage pipe. The rider suffered severe injuries to his left arm and leg. He was immediately brought to Taksin Hospital by an advance rescue vehicle from Thung Khru. The Maha Sawat tunnel has a history of such accidents. This unfortunate incident happened at approximately 5.50 am. Prompt response from several volunteer teams from Burana 294, Cheng Long 50, Move Fast Zone 3, D Ward 37, and Po Tek Tung helped manage the situation effectively. Their coordination managed through Buppha015 Zone 3 and Rescue V.2 notifications was instrumental in providing the emergency services required. In a separate incident, a gas truck flipped over on the Kanchanaphisek Expressway today, causing a multitude of gas cylinders to scatter across the road. This mishap led to significant disruption of traffic. Reported to have occurred at around 8.30 am, the event resulted in one person being injured and a traffic deadlock that lasted almost two hours. The accident occurred near the Thepharak exit ramp, obstructing the right lanes of the expressway and causing chaos in the early hours of the morning. -- 2024-05-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Extreme Heat Leads to Pause in In-Person Classes at Thai Schools Picture courtesy of js100 The secretary-general of Thailand's Basic Education Commission, Thanu Wongchinda, has advised schools to stop in-person teaching in face of the anticipated extreme heat in April. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326635-extreme-heat-leads-to-pause-in-in-person-classes-at-thai-schools/

Picture courtesy of js100 The secretary-general of Thailand's Basic Education Commission, Thanu Wongchinda, has advised schools to stop in-person teaching in face of the anticipated extreme heat in April. The guidance aims to protect students and teachers against heat stroke risks, given that many schools are scheduled to open for the new term coinciding with the heatwave. Regions particularly at risk include the northeast, north, central plains, and east. Thanu also urged schools to cancel outdoor activities on extremely hot days, provide enough drinking water, and check electrical wires and appliances for safety. An option suggested to maintain academic continuity is the switch to online learning. Moreover, Thanu warned against the risk of students being accidentally locked in hot vehicles, calling for greater vigilance from school staff. Meanwhile, the Thailand Meteorological Department issued a severe heat warning for several parts of the country, predicting temperatures to hit a high of 44 degrees Celsius. It also warned against prolonged outdoor activities due to potential health risks. Associate Professor Seree Supratid flagged global warming as a contributing factor to worsening heat conditions, projecting that Bangkok's hottest period could extend from the current 17 days to 80 days annually, particularly between March and May. The extreme heatwave is attributed to a low-pressure area created by high temperatures in the upper region of the country. -- 2024-05-06 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe