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Tour Boat Catches Fire In Ayutthaya, All Aboard Rescued by TNR Staff A fierce fire from the boat spreading to the pier. Photo: TV Channel 7 A TOUR BOAT of a well-known restaurant in Ayutthaya caught fire in the middle of Chao Pharya river at 2 p.m. today (Apr. 16) but fortunately all 24 tourists and the skipper were rescued by two other boats, TV Channel 7 said. The boat was sailing back to the restaurant when a cloud of smoke suddenly poured out of the hull. The skipper tried to go down and investigate but could not do so because the smoke was too thick. Fortunately, all aboard were wearing life jackets and jumped into the river. Two passing boats, one from the Marine Department and other from another restaurant, rescued all of them. Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Songkran revellers left behind more than 100 tonnes of garbage on Silom and Khao San roads Khao San Road on the morning after the last day of Songkran festival The three-day Songkran water splashing on Khao San road was over on Monday night and left behind about 116 tonnes of garbage, mostly drinking water bottles, plastic bags, water guns, plastic buckets and traces of white clay flour, to be collected by city collectors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325107-songkran-revellers-left-behind-more-than-100-tonnes-of-garbage-on-silom-and-khao-san-roads/

The three-day Songkran water splashing on Khao San road was over on Monday night and left behind about 116 tonnes of garbage, mostly drinking water bottles, plastic bags, water guns, plastic buckets and traces of white clay flour, to be collected by city collectors. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt supervised about 250 city workers in the cleanup of Khao Sarn road this morning. About 200,000 Songkran revelers were estimated to visit the area yesterday and last night, which was the last day of the Songkran celebrations there. According to city officials, a total of 116 tonnes of garbage were collected from Khao San and its vicinity for the first three days from April 12. The amount of garbage left behind by the revellers last night was not estimated yet. For Silom road, about 33 tonnes of garbage were collected on April 13-14. The number of revellers there was estimated at about 58,000 and 79,000 respectively. TOP: Khao San Road on the morning after the last day of Songkran festival Full story: Thai PBS 2024-04-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 17 April 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1325106-thailand-live-wednesday-17-april-2024/

Bangkok Launches Major Pavement Renovation Project BANGKOK (NNT) - The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has initiated a pilot project to refurbish the city’s pavements, covering a combined length of 86 kilometers across 16 roads. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325078-bangkok-launches-major-pavement-renovation-project/

Deputy National Police chief Pol General Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn sounds surprisingly cheerful given that his high-flying career has just plunged into another crisis. Surachate Hakparn: The rollercoaster career of Thailand’s most famous policeman Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325073-surachate-hakparn-the-rollercoaster-career-of-thailand’s-most-famous-policeman/

Tourism sector divided over elected versus appointed provincial governors by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Evan Krause, Unsplash The debate over elected provincial governors versus appointed heads is intensifying, revealing a divide among tourism operators. This issue gained momentum during last year’s general election, when several political parties, including Pheu Thai, proposed allowing locals to elect their governors, a practice already in place in Bangkok and Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325054-tourism-sector-divided-over-elected-versus-appointed-provincial-governors/

The debate over elected provincial governors versus appointed heads is intensifying, revealing a divide among tourism operators. This issue gained momentum during last year’s general election, when several political parties, including Pheu Thai, proposed allowing locals to elect their governors, a practice already in place in Bangkok and Pattaya. Pheu Thai’s coalition government, during its policy announcement, introduced a CEO-governor model aiming to give provincial governors the same authority as a company CEO. This call for elected governors grew louder on social media last week. Communities in Chiang Mai, frustrated with the handling of hazardous smog levels by appointed governors, led the charge. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, voiced his support for elected governors. He argued that provincial governors should have a more significant role in local economies, especially tourism, and in addressing tourist safety issues. According to Sisdivachr, the current system of appointed governors, who are rotated to different provinces by the central government, leads to inconsistent policies and hindered development. “Elected governors won’t be afraid to get their hands dirty if they know constituents gave them the authority, unlike appointed governors who still have to consider their career path,” he said. However, not all share this viewpoint. La-iad Bungsrithong, a board advisor for the Thai Hotels Association’s northern chapter, believes that appointed governors can still play a crucial role, forming a direct connection with the national government and balancing local administrative power, reported Bangkok Post. La-iad voiced concerns about the potential lack of suitable local candidates in some provinces. She argued that maintaining strong connections with the central government is crucial for provinces. With municipal mayors and provincial administrative organisation (PAO) presidents already elected by locals, she suggests that “it might be better to have one appointed governor who can directly connect with the central administration.” by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Evan Krause, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Procession brawl in Chiang Mai leads to hefty 75,000 baht fines by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of chiangmainews Chaos erupted during a traditional procession in Chom Thong, Chiang Mai, when a violent brawl broke out among participants, undeterred by the potential for a hefty fine of 75,000 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325051-procession-brawl-in-chiang-mai-leads-to-hefty-75000-baht-fines/

Chaos erupted during a traditional procession in Chom Thong, Chiang Mai, when a violent brawl broke out among participants, undeterred by the potential for a hefty fine of 75,000 baht. The incident took place yesterday, April 15, as 19 groups paraded the sacred Bo tree supports into Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong amid loud music and a large crowd. The clash is believed to have started over a simple misstep during a dance, leading to a chase across the street and causing alarm among onlookers. Before the procession, community youth groups and the Chom Thong Subdistrict Municipality held a meeting to discuss the event’s organisation and emphasise the importance of maintaining peace. The resolution set hefty penalties for any form of violence, with fines of 75,000 baht (US$2,000) and the promise of a 5,000 baht (US$135) reward for video evidence submitted after case closure. Additionally, all musical bands were required to install CCTV for security purposes. Warning signs were also displayed. “If you don’t have money, don’t act tough!! No weapons allowed or face a 75,000 baht fine breaking down the allocation of the fine among various stakeholders, including the videographers of any incident.” The altercation disrupted the otherwise festive atmosphere of the procession, which resumed shortly after the incident with no reported injuries, reported KhaoSod. In related news, residents in a Chon Buri community acted swiftly to detain a heavily intoxicated man who, after becoming agitated during a Songkran celebration, returned home to fetch a gun and threaten his companions. The incident, which took place on April 13 at around 5.30pm, saw local law enforcement led by Police Colonel Navin Sinthurat, the superintendent of Bang Lamung Police Station, along with his deputies, Police Lieutenant Colonel Suphawat Lattapreecha and Police Lieutenant Colonel Suchat Dusadee, responding to a radio centre alert during a routine patrol for the festive period. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of chiangmainews Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai lottery fever spikes as lucky numbers circulate ahead of April draw by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod The excitement is palpable as the Thai lottery draw for April 16, approaches, with lottery enthusiasts eagerly seeking out lucky numbers in anticipation of becoming the next millionaire. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325050-thai-lottery-fever-spikes-as-lucky-numbers-circulate-ahead-of-april-draw/

The excitement is palpable as the Thai lottery draw for April 16, approaches, with lottery enthusiasts eagerly seeking out lucky numbers in anticipation of becoming the next millionaire. The draw, set to take place at the Government Lottery Office in Nonthaburi, has sparked a frenzy among the public, with special attention to numbers associated with various auspicious signs and popular figures. One such revered source is Pu Khaew at Pu Khaew Khamnod, whose devotees believe in the mystical power of numbers associated with him. In a recently held event, a coin featuring the likeness of Pu Sri Suttho and Mae Ya Sri Prathumma was revealed, enchanting attendees with numbers 17 and 71 hidden within the Naga scales design. The Chinese calendar, too, has its share of followers who keenly inspect it for hints of winning numbers. With the latest edition highlighting numbers 387, 23, 252, 327, and 692, lottery enthusiasts are left speculating which of these could turn their fortunes. An accident involving a container truck in Pak Chong has sparked a different kind of interest, as superstitious individuals rush to purchase lottery tickets with numbers 67-7795 and 67-1493, the truck’s registration numbers, hoping for a stroke of luck. In Nakorn Pathom, worshippers at Luang Phor Somwang’s shrine fervently seek blessings and lucky numbers, with the recent Seamsi shaking revealing favored numbers 25, 19, and 22. A lucky escape from a king cobra encounter in a local’s bedroom has turned into an opportunity for gamblers, who have derived numbers 514, 415, 154, 541, 451, and 145 from the house number where the snake was found. Lucky numbers Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s vehicle registration number, กล 9 from Nakhon Si Thammarat, has also caught the public’s eye as a potential source of good luck, while Luang Phor Hamjon of Wat Mai Samakkhi in Phetchabun has inspired the numbers 523 after his followers reported winning prizes following their visits. Devotees of Thao Wessuwan, from as far as Ranong, seek blessings in Nakhon Pathom, resulting in numbers 11, 13, and 17, while the revered Luang Pu Heng in the northeast has generated excitement with number 391 from a ceremonial candle. A 21 year old jewellery store owner from Ang Thong has sparked interest with her dance offerings to Thao Wessuwan, resulting in numbers 831 and 59. In the north, Chiang Mai’s lottery numbers are particularly sought after this season, with predictions including 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 413, 414, 415, 567, and 386 among others. The numbers complement the numerology provided by Ploy Pailin, who advises on numbers based on astrological readings, suggesting pairs like 13, 58, 59, 10, and 09 for the upcoming draw. In Phayao, a giant candle at a sacred water tank has given lottery players numbers 618, 108, and 10 to consider for their next wager, while the Wat Sawang Arom ceremony in Nakhon Pathom has yielded numbers 246 and 134. Lastly, a homeowner’s chance encounter with geckos has led to the number 953, and a water tank at the hermitage of a sage has revealed numbers 4, 5, 7, 3, 6, and 8, all adding to the rich tapestry of potential lottery-winning numbers, reported KhaoSod. As the draw date looms, hope and superstition blend into a unique cultural phenomenon, with countless individuals dreaming of turning their luck into fortune with the right combination of numbers. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Minivan passengers pass out from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning By Peter Roche PHOTO: Thai Rath Five out of six people travelling in a passenger minivan fell ill and lost consciousness due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325049-minivan-passengers-pass-out-from-suspected-carbon-monoxide-poisoning/

Five out of six people travelling in a passenger minivan fell ill and lost consciousness due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. Nation Thailand reports that on Sunday, April 14, the minivan was travelling between the north-eastern provinces of Mukdanah and Yasothon when 5 passengers passed out in their seats. By the time the van arrived at its final destination of Yasothon bus terminal, at around 3.45 pm, some passengers were vomiting. It’s understood a number of motorbike taxis initially offered the passengers their services, but when they declined due to their ill health, the taxi drivers called the emergency services. By Peter Roche PHOTO: Thai Rath Full story: PhuketGO 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Four arrested in Phuket with over 12,000 methamphetamine pills seized by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Thalang Police Four individuals have been apprehended by Thalang Police in Phuket on charges related to drugs, with over 12,000 methamphetamine pills, locally known as ya bah, confiscated in the process. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325048-four-arrested-in-phuket-with-over-12000-methamphetamine-pills-seized/

Four individuals have been apprehended by Thalang Police in Phuket on charges related to drugs, with over 12,000 methamphetamine pills, locally known as ya bah, confiscated in the process. The arrests were carried out across three distinct operations yesterday. Among those apprehended was Duean Jarachit, a 42 year old resident of Moo 1, Mai Khao. She was taken into custody on a road in Baan Yamu, Moo 7, Pa Khlok, and discovered in possession of 398 ya bah pills. Alongside the drugs, her mobile phone was also seized by the officers. Next to be arrested was Samart Mankarn, a 50 year old from Ao Luek, Krabi. He was apprehended in front of a Moo 8, Thepkrasattri residence, with 360 ya bah pills and two grammes of crystal meth in his possession. Finally, 48 year old Suchart ‘Sak’ Roengsamut, and 32 year old Teeraphon ‘Rusdeen’ Laolang, were taken into custody following a search of Suchart’s Moo 9, Thepkrasattri residence and then Teeraphon’s house in Moo 8, Thepkrasattri. These searches led to the seizure of 11,810 ya bah pills. In addition, a pack of plastic bags and two mobile phones were seized as evidence, reported The Phuket News. The four individuals were subsequently transported to Thalang Police Station, where they were officially charged with the illegal possession of a Category 1 narcotic with intent to sell. In related news, Bangkok police have successfully dismantled a major drug operation following the arrest of two individuals caught with an extensive haul of methamphetamine pills and a considerable sum of cash. The operation, which took place late at night in the capital, led to the seizure of 190,000 methamphetamine pills, approximately 400 grams of ketamine, and over 1.3 million baht (US$ 36,000) in cash and bank account assets. The arrests were made in two separate locations in Bangkok. The first individual, 24 year old Jirayu, was apprehended in the Sasiwimon 2 Village in the Bang Khae district, while the second, 24 year old Thanapol, was detained in the parking area of an apartment complex in Nong Khaem district. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Thalang Police Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chinese firms eye EV supply chain in Thailand’s Smart Park by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of JUICE, Unsplash Chinese companies have shown keen interest in the EV supply chain and energy sectors of the Smart Park Industrial Estate, situated in Rayong, Thailand. This estate is due to open by the end of the current year, according to the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325045-chinese-firms-eye-ev-supply-chain-in-thailand’s-smart-park/

Chinese companies have shown keen interest in the EV supply chain and energy sectors of the Smart Park Industrial Estate, situated in Rayong, Thailand. This estate is due to open by the end of the current year, according to the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT). The companies aim to establish factories manufacturing EV components to cater to the burgeoning Thai EV market. They also have plans to venture into energy development, revealed Veeris Ammarapala, the governor of IEAT. “We have taken this group of investors to visit Smart Park,” he stated. “They are interested in leasing large plots of land and are gathering data to conduct feasibility studies on their new businesses.” Smart Park gives particular importance to the digital sector, with digital technology playing a crucial role in supporting several businesses, including EV assembly. The Thai government offers incentive packages to global EV manufacturers to invest in Thailand, with the broader objective of establishing Thailand as a regional hub for EV production. As per an EV roadmap for the period between 2022 and 2030, authorities intend for battery EVs to constitute 30% of total car manufacturing by 2030. This includes the production of 725,000 zero-emission cars, 675,000 electric motorcycles, and 34,000 electric buses and trucks. Amidst these developments, the IEAT plans to further encourage investment at Smart Park by offering a one-year waiver on land rental costs and an exemption on fees for operating facilities at the industrial estate for the same duration. With a focus on targeted industries and supporting a drive towards carbon neutrality, Smart Park is situated in the Map Ta Phut area, covering 1,383 rai of land. The estate also supports the aviation and logistics, medical devices, and robotics sectors, in addition to the digital sector. Smart Park’s construction is currently 82% complete. “We expect Smart Park to create 7,459 jobs and generate 1.3 billion baht (US$ 35 million) a year for the economy,” said Veeris, reported Bangkok Post. In a bid to combat global warming, the IEAT recently announced its partnership with six Thai and Japanese companies. The collaboration will involve a joint study on hydrogen fuel at the Map Ta Phut and Smart Park industrial estates. This project aligns with Thailand’s carbon neutrality target and supports investors interested in using clean-energy-based electricity and transport. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of JUICE, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai authorities plan for potential energy cost surge amid Israel-Iran conflict by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of engin akyurt, Unsplash Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce has issued directives to state bodies to devise strategies to mitigate potential surges in energy costs in the event of an escalation in the Israel-Iran conflict. Fuull story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325042-thai-authorities-plan-for-potential-energy-cost-surge-amid-israel-iran-conflict/

Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce has issued directives to state bodies to devise strategies to mitigate potential surges in energy costs in the event of an escalation in the Israel-Iran conflict. The directive follows Iran’s missile and drone assault on Israel, a retaliatory move against Israel’s alleged attack on Iran’s consulate in Damascus earlier this month. This marked the first direct attack by Iran on Israel in a longstanding shadow conflict, typically characterised by Iran launching assaults on Israel via terror proxies. In response to the escalating situation, Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced that he had tasked the ministry, the International Trade Promotion Department, the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, and foreign commerce diplomats with assessing potential impacts on Thai trade. Phumtham also called for diligent monitoring of activities in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route for oil and natural gas exports for numerous Middle Eastern nations, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Qatar, and Kuwait. The strait sees a daily traffic of around 21 million barrels of oil. Should the conflict intensify to the point of disrupting this key trade route, the implications could be severe. The disruption could significantly hinder oil procurement, leading to hikes in transport costs and global energy prices. Phumtham stressed the need for state bodies to examine the potential negative outcomes of such scenarios and devise strategies to mitigate impacts on Thailand and its export sector. The National Economic and Social Development Council previously expressed concerns that the Israel-Hamas conflict could impact the Thai economy via fuel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices should the situation worsen. The assessment indicated that the country’s capacity to stabilise fuel prices seems to be diminishing, while LPG prices may continue to rise given the rapid depletion of the oil fuel fund, reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of engin akyurt, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Krabi’s Phi Phi islands tackle severe freshwater shortage by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Ao Nang OrBortor The Phi Phi Islands, a prominent tourist attraction in Krabi, are grappling with a severe shortage of freshwater. The local authorities are exploring potential solutions, with two options under consideration – a pipeline bringing water from the mainland or the production of freshwater from the sea, according to the Ao Nang Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324864-phi-phi-islands-tackle-critical-water-shortage/?do=findComment&comment=18846348

Krabi’s Phi Phi islands tackle severe freshwater shortage by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Ao Nang OrBortor The Phi Phi Islands, a prominent tourist attraction in Krabi, are grappling with a severe shortage of freshwater. The local authorities are exploring potential solutions, with two options under consideration – a pipeline bringing water from the mainland or the production of freshwater from the sea, according to the Ao Nang Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor). Phankham Kittitorakul, President of Ao Nang OrBorTor, highlighted the recurring lack of tap water during the dry season. This period coincides with the tourist high season, exacerbating the situation over the past few years. To address this, Ao Nang OrBorTor has received funding to investigate these two possible solutions. The urgency of the situation is underscored by the fact that Water Hill Co Ltd, a private company providing tap water to households, businesses, restaurants, hotels, and resorts on the Phi Phi Islands, is on the verge of exhausting its water reserve. The company anticipates that its capacity to provide water to customers will cease by tomorrow. Following this, it will distribute water for two hours a day until its reserve is replenished by rainfall or completely depleted, necessitating further adaptations. Adding to the crisis, the artesian well and water reserve of Ao Nang OrBorTor, which supplies raw water to private companies for tap water production, are also depleted. Consequently, water prices have skyrocketed to 200 baht (US$5.4) per cubic metre. This situation is expected to hit households and small businesses that lack private artesian wells the hardest. However, larger hotels, resorts, and businesses on the islands appear to be unaffected by the water shortage, as they possess their artesian wells. These wells are expected to provide sufficient tap water to visitors. The water shortages in Krabi are escalating, according to Ittichai Tanbutr, Vice President of the Pattana Krabi (Krabi Development) group. He disclosed that the Provincial Waterworks Authority’s office in the province has been compelled to reduce water pressure and limit water distribution in many areas since April 11, reported The Phuket News. Ittichai urged the government to systematically and sustainably address the water scarcity problem. The Phi Phi islands, comprising Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Lay, and several smaller islets, are amongst the province’s most frequented tourist destinations. Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s CPPD calls for collective action against youth vaping by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Matichon A plea has been made by the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) for collective action to safeguard Thai youngsters from the adverse health effects of e-cigarettes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325041-thailand’s-cppd-calls-for-collective-action-against-youth-vaping/

A plea has been made by the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) for collective action to safeguard Thai youngsters from the adverse health effects of e-cigarettes. Police Major General Wittaya Sriprasert, CPPD chief, has stressed the need for educators, school personnel, parents, and relatives of young children to collaborate in imparting knowledge about the health hazards linked with vaping. In addition, he emphasised the necessity for young people to understand the legal repercussions of infringing laws that ban the sale and possession of such devices in Thailand. Reflecting on CPPD data, he mentioned that the incidence of illegal sales and possession of e-cigarettes and their cartridges has seen an upward trend in recent times. In 2022, law enforcement officers confiscated vapes and cartridges to the tune of two million baht from 31 vendors. In the past year, they seized products worth 10.14 million baht (US$ 280,000) from 25 vendors. As of this month, CPPD officials have seized merchandise amounting to 2.7 million baht (US$ 73,000) in 42 cases. Forty two year old Khin and 25 year old Hhyo, both Myanmar nationals, were apprehended recently, on April 13, for vending vapes and cartridges along Sukhumvit Road in Watthana district. A significant amount of e-cigarettes were found in their possession. The CPPD chief disclosed that a study has been conducted to discern the reasons behind the rapid popularity of e-cigarettes among Thai youths, despite their illegality under Thai law. The study revealed that most consumers were enticed by the appealing designs of the devices and the extensive range of flavours and varieties available. He noted that online marketing strategies and other advertisement methods employed by e-cigarette manufacturers and traders to attract young people have contributed to the surge in the popularity of vapes. Furthermore, the study discovered that because e-cigarettes cost less than traditional cigarettes and can be used repeatedly, many perceived them as providing good value for money, reported Bangkok Post. However, he concluded that the level of awareness among Thai youths about the real health impact of e-cigarette use remains relatively low. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Matichon Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Lone thief snatches 210,000 baht gold necklace in a daring mall heist by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A bold theft occurred yesterday at 7pm when a lone robber seized a 5-baht weight gold necklace valued at over 210,000 baht from the Aurora gold shop located inside a shopping mall in Bang Kaeo, Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325039-lone-thief-snatches-210000-baht-gold-necklace-in-a-daring-mall-heist/