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Bangkok Governor Pushes B9m Plan for Lifesaving Seismographs Generic image for reference only Bangkok's governor Chadchart Sittipunt is on a mission to secure a nine-million-baht budget for installing earthquake measurement devices across eight skyscraping hospitals in the city. Gull story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356627-bangkok-governor-pushes-b9m-plan-for-lifesaving-seismographs/

Generic image for reference only Bangkok's governor Chadchart Sittipunt is on a mission to secure a nine-million-baht budget for installing earthquake measurement devices across eight skyscraping hospitals in the city. After a similar proposal failed to pass in September 2023, Chadchart is giving it another go, banking on a shift in the City Council's stance in light of recent seismic concerns. His proposition comes as a safety measure to protect tall hospital buildings like the towering 37-storey Thani Nopparat Building and the 17-storey Somdet Chao Phraya Taksin Maharat Building. Chadchart highlights the newfound affordability and critical nature of the technology that gathers essential data to ensure structural safety. The budget might come from the 2026 fiscal allocations or central government funds. The Bangkok governor is keen on reinforcing public confidence by potentially expanding the installation of these devices beyond hospitals to other government and private structures, should the initial phase succeed. These seismographs, estimated at nine million baht, promise not only to be lifesavers but also pivotal in enhancing data reliability for future urban planning and crisis management. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-03

Thailand’s Earthquake Damage: 34 Buildings Deemed Unsafe After National Checks A traffic policeman manages the traffic after it opens for public at the site of an under-construction high-rise building that collapsed after an earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, April 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup) In the wake of a recent earthquake, inspectors have flagged 34 buildings across Thailand as severely damaged, rendering them off-limits for safety reasons. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356605-thailand’s-earthquake-damage-34-buildings-deemed-unsafe-after-national-checks/

Chinese Firm in Government Projects Under Investigation for Proxy Shareholdings Picture courtesy of Daily News The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has launched a probe into China Railway No.10 Engineering Co (CREC) after suspicions arose about Thai nominees holding proxy shares in the company. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356602-chinese-firm-in-government-projects-under-investigation-for-proxy-shareholdings/

Pattaya Bar Owner Discovers Friend Dead, Gold Necklace Worth 250k Baht Missing Picture via Channel 8 Tragedy struck in Pattaya today as the lifeless body of 30-year-old Nai, a local member of the LGBTQIA+ community, was discovered under a bed in his apartment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356599-pattaya-bar-owner-discovers-friend-dead-gold-necklace-worth-250k-baht-missing/

Car Reservations Surge by 29% at 46th Bangkok International Motor Show Picture courtesy of MGR Online The 46th Bangkok International Motor Show has shifted into high gear, captivating car aficionados and revving up a considerable 29% surge in vehicle reservations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356598-car-reservations-surge-by-29-at-46th-bangkok-international-motor-show/

Thailand's Seismic Activity: 59 Earthquakes Place Country in Global Top 100 Paramedics take a relative of a missing person who fell unconscious while waiting at the site of an under-construction high-rise building that collapsed after Friday's earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, April 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup) In a startling revelation, Thailand has been ranked 59th out of the top 100 countries experiencing earthquakes, recording 59 seismic events this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356596-thailands-seismic-activity-59-earthquakes-place-country-in-global-top-60/

Paramedics take a relative of a missing person who fell unconscious while waiting at the site of an under-construction high-rise building that collapsed after Friday's earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, April 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup) In a startling revelation, Thailand has been ranked 59th out of the top 100 countries experiencing earthquakes, recording 59 seismic events this year. The strongest quake registered a magnitude of 4.9. Although not in the top 10, Thailand's position highlights the country's significant vulnerability to tectonic activity. Data supplied by earthquakelist.org, sourced from the US Geological Survey and the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre, updates daily based on magnitude 4.0 or higher quakes within 300 kilometres of a country's borders. The list showcases Indonesia leading with an eye-popping 517 quakes and a top magnitude of 6.1, with Mexico following at 483 quakes peaking at 6.2. Greece and Türkiye also rank high with 413 and 403 quakes, illustrating notable seismic action. Additional seismic giants in the top 10 include China (324 quakes, 7.1 magnitude), Ethiopia (241 quakes, 5.9 magnitude), Chile (225 quakes, 6.1 magnitude), Japan (222 quakes, 6.8 magnitude), India (197 quakes, 7.1 magnitude), and the Philippines (196 quakes, 5.7 magnitude). Their high activity is due to their positions along the dynamic tectonic plate boundaries where earthquakes are fiercely common. Rich in natural beauty, Thailand's place on the list may garner concern for residents and visitors. Despite being less dramatically affected than countries like Japan and Indonesia, the persistent tremors serve as a reminder of the underlying geological forces at play. With its location near active tectonic plates, being informed and prepared remains essential for those residing or travelling in Thailand, where the ground is far from still. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-04-03

Picture courtesy of MGR Online The 46th Bangkok International Motor Show has shifted into high gear, captivating car aficionados and revving up a considerable 29% surge in vehicle reservations. With electric vehicles (EVs) stealing the spotlight, the show is on a roll at Impact Challenger Hall, running until April 6th. Enthusiasts and eco-friendly consumers alike are flocking to see groundbreaking electric models debut in Thailand. Jaturon Komolmit, a key figure from Grand Prix International, has reported an impressive 24,744 vehicle reservations just halfway through the event. This spicy figure is sure to grow, as some brands are yet to tally up final day's reservations. The show's electric edge is attracting eager buyers, with numerous xEV dealers showcasing the future of sustainable driving. While the latest EV models draw in eco-conscious consumers, the show guarantees entertainment beyond car displays. Visitors are diving into thrilling prize draws, enhancing the allure of the event. It's not just about the stunning cars on offer; it's a full-throttle experience celebrating automotive innovation, and a tantalising peek into the road ahead. Set in the bustling halls of Muang Thong Thani, the motor show is fast becoming a must-visit affair for those eager to see the latest in automotive advancement. With several brands to explore, attendees are seizing the chance to book the car of their dreams. As the countdown continues, final reservation figures are poised to reflect a sharp consumer pivot towards electric vehicles in the Land of Smiles. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-04-03

Picture via Channel 8 Tragedy struck in Pattaya today as the lifeless body of 30-year-old Nai, a local member of the LGBTQIA+ community, was discovered under a bed in his apartment. The shocking discovery was made by his friend, Sakesan, who owns a nearby bar. Alarmingly, Nai’s prized gold necklace, valued at nearly 250,000 baht, was also missing, raising suspicions of foul play. Nai was found naked, with a dark blue towel in his mouth, and a deep wound in his stomach. Officers from Mueang Pattaya Police Station stated he had likely been deceased for at least three days. His body was discovered in a second-floor apartment on Soi Kor Phai 4/5, amid a strong, unpleasant odour that permeated the area. Police reported finding an unusual scene inside the room, with food items, a charging mobile phone, and a fake gun. Two pieces of luggage and a cardboard box were also present. These findings suggest Nai was preparing to eat shortly before the tragic events unfolded. The scene has left investigators piecing together the sequence of events leading to his untimely death. According to Sakesan, Nai had been supporting himself through the financial aid of his German boyfriend while enjoying the local bar scene. However, he became unresponsive to calls and messages after March 29, prompting concern among friends. When they checked his apartment and made the grim discovery, suspicions were heightened due to the missing necklace. Nai’s death continues to be shrouded in mystery as the police carry out an intensive investigation. His body is undergoing an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-04-03

Picture courtesy of Daily News The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has launched a probe into China Railway No.10 Engineering Co (CREC) after suspicions arose about Thai nominees holding proxy shares in the company. This development follows the collapse of the State Audit Office building in Bangkok last Friday. Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong revealed on Wednesday that the company, which should be majority-owned by Thais under law, might be using nominees to skirt ownership regulations. Aside from the State Audit Office fiasco, CREC is involved in several key government projects. These include a new passenger terminal at Narathiwat airport, a housing project in Phuket, and various infrastructure developments around Bangkok. The construction sector is keenly watching the unfolding investigation, which now also questions whether the firm's materials met industrial standards. DSI's investigation will extend to other projects handled by CREC and its Chinese engineers. These include a number of major government contracts from 2019 to 2022 such as a school building at Wat Amarintararam in Bangkok, a dormitory at Phuket Rajabhat University, and a provincial government complex in Phrae. The outcome could impact future collaborations and trust in foreign companies. On Wednesday, immigration police raided a property in the Din Daeng district, believed to be linked to CREC. They discovered two Chinese nationals, eight Thais, and a Toyota vehicle associated with the company in the sparsely furnished house. As the case unfolds, it raises questions about business ethics and compliance in Thailand's construction industry. Following the State Audit Office collapse, the ITD-CREC consortium insisted their construction materials adhered to all standards. They assured that procurement and building processes met project requirements, relevant laws, and engineering guidelines. Meanwhile, the Office of the Judiciary confirmed that construction for the Court of Appeal Region 9 and Min Buri’s civil and criminal courts followed respective standards. The DSI's findings will reveal the extent of any compliance breaches, impacting future project alignment and foreign partnerships in Thailand’s construction landscape. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-03

A traffic policeman manages the traffic after it opens for public at the site of an under-construction high-rise building that collapsed after an earthquake in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, April 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup) In the wake of a recent earthquake, inspectors have flagged 34 buildings across Thailand as severely damaged, rendering them off-limits for safety reasons. A sweeping national inspection was carried out by the Department of Public Works and Town and Country Planning (DPT) and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), covering an impressive 3,375 buildings. Thankfully, a vast majority of 3,130 structures passed the safety checks, while an additional 211 showed moderate damage. Checks spanned from March 28 to April 1, sorting buildings into three key categories. The first group focused on government structures like public hospitals, schools, and offices in Bangkok, scrutinised by the DPT, Council of Engineers, and volunteer experts. Meanwhile, the private sector’s towering high-rises, hotels, condos, and bustling shopping malls fell into the second group, each independently required to run their own post-quake checks. Residences, commercial spaces, and other general buildings in Bangkok comprised the third category under direct oversight by the BMA. In the provinces affected by the temblor, the DPT marshaled local engineers and volunteer inspectors to assess the situations. With 2,600 certified inspectors registered online, public consultation was urged to ensure thorough safety checks. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has enacted powers under the Building Control Act of 1979, necessitating all building owners to undergo inspections. The BMA has proactively reached out to 11,000 private proprietors, urging them to follow through—112 have completed these checks so far. And, as concerns mount, Traffy Fondue, BMA’s complaint system, reveals a surge of 15,514 safety reports, with a commendable 13,612 resolved. For ongoing concerns, the DPT has initiated a 24-hour hotline as a lifeline for safety updates, available 24 hours a day at 1531, 02-299-4191 and 02-299-4312. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-03

Trump Starts Global Tariff Wall, Thailand Hit with 36% Tax Livestream screenshot via Youtube Donald Trump has announced retaliatory tariffs on countries with which the U.S. has a trade deficit. The new tariffs, starting at 10%, affect a wide range of countries, with Thailand facing a 36% tariff. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356617-trump-starts-global-tariff-wall-thailand-hit-with-36-tax/

Livestream screenshot via Youtube Donald Trump has announced retaliatory tariffs on countries with which the U.S. has a trade deficit. The new tariffs, starting at 10%, affect a wide range of countries, with Thailand facing a 36% tariff. On 2nd April 2025, President Trump held a press conference at the White House announcing the implementation of tariffs on nearly all imported goods into the US, beginning at 10%. However, certain countries, including Thailand, will face much harsher tariffs due to significant trade deficits with the US. Under this new system, tariffs will vary across countries. While the UK, Brazil, and several others begin at 10%, Thailand faces a steep 36% tariff. Other nations are also heavily impacted, with Vietnam at 46% and Cambodia at 49%. During his announcement in the White House Rose Garden, Trump boldly declared, "The US has been plundered and stolen from by many nations, both ally and adversary." He touted the measure as a liberation for American industry, stating, "This will be remembered as the day American industry was reborn and America’s destiny reclaimed." Trump underscored this as a beginning of a new golden era for the US economy, also taking the opportunity to criticise previous trade relations with Canada and Mexico, both already subjected to a 25% tariff. Highlighting his strategy, Trump added, "This tariff is a partial response. We haven’t hit back fully as it would be burdensome for many nations, a step we wish to avoid." Moreover, the tariffs will extend to foreign-manufactured cars imported into the US, enforcing a 25% rate from midnight on 2nd April. Based on a story by Thai Rath, BBC, CNN -- 2025-04-03

Chiang Mai Battles Severe Air Pollution Amidst Persistent Wildfires Picture courtesy of Panumet Tanraksa Chiang Mai is facing a severe air pollution crisis as wildfires continue to rage across its districts, with over 150 hotspots currently active. On April 1, thick smoke engulfed the northern province, notably affecting areas such as Hot, Chiang Dao, and Phrao with numerous fire flare-ups. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356578-chiang-mai-battles-severe-air-pollution-amidst-persistent-wildfires/

Bangkok Developers Reassure Residents Following Earthquake Impact File photo for reference only Following the recent Myanmar earthquake which impacted high-rise buildings in Bangkok, major real estate developers have taken prompt action to ensure the safety and confidence of residents and potential buyers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356562-bangkok-developers-reassure-residents-following-earthquake-impact/

Make-up Artist Transforms Viral Road Sweeper into Thai Film Icon Photo via TikTok/ @semyonrezchikov and Facebook/ Chatchai Peangapichart In a heartwarming twist of fate, a Bangkok road sweeper who went viral for her photogenic appeal has been transformed by a leading Thai make-up artist into a character from the famous film, Art of the Devil 2. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356577-make-up-artist-transforms-viral-road-sweeper-into-thai-film-icon/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 3 April 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1356553-thailand-live-thursday-3-april-2025/

American Man Arrested for Robbing Donation Box Outside Pattaya Police Station In a surprising turn of events early this morning, a 62-year-old American man's alleged desperation led him to an audacious robbery in Pattaya. The man, identified as John, was caught stealing from a donation box outside the local police station. His motive: hunger, after reportedly losing his ATM card. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356559-american-man-arrested-for-robbing-donation-box-outside-pattaya-police-station/

UPDATE: Make-up Artist Transforms Viral Road Sweeper into Thai Film Icon Photo via TikTok/ @semyonrezchikov and Facebook/ Chatchai Peangapichart Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356577-make-up-artist-transforms-viral-road-sweeper-into-thai-film-icon/

Power Quake Shakes Thailand but Electricity Supply Stands Firm Reference picture courtesy of EGAT The March 28 quake brought technical hitches to Thailand's power grid, yet electricity transmission emerged unscathed, proving the nation's power security is rock-solid, as per the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356529-power-quake-shakes-thailand-but-electricity-supply-stands-firm/

Reference picture courtesy of EGAT The March 28 quake brought technical hitches to Thailand's power grid, yet electricity transmission emerged unscathed, proving the nation's power security is rock-solid, as per the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). When the 7.7-magnitude quake hit central Myanmar, it rattled Thai regions including Bangkok and areas with key power facilities. Poonpat Leesombatpaiboon, ERC's secretary-general, assured that "electricity supply was stable and distribution normal" as operators swiftly sorted out any glitches. The earthquake stalled 600 megawatts from the Mae Mo Power Plant and South Bangkok Power Plant, risking supply to Bangkok and nearby provinces. Remarkably, no households or businesses experienced disruptions. The seamless supply despite these setbacks is due to Thailand's robust power reserves, ready to counter further quakes. Monitoring by the ERC revealed blackouts in parts of 11 provinces like Mae Hong Son and Lampang, but teams quickly restored power. The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) and other power bodies banded together to ensure all systems ran smoothly. EGAT confirmed its hydropower plants had no issues. They continue powering the grid without interruptions. The earthquake's epicentre, near Mandalay, Myanmar, is 637 km from Thailand's Sirikit Dam, a key hydropower site, fortunately sustaining no damage. National power integrity was tested, and the response showcases Thailand's preparedness and capability in energy security, highlighting the diligent efforts of agencies ensuring minimal disruptions during natural adversities. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-04-02

Drunken Hungarian Man Sparks Chaos at Building Collapse Site Picture courtesy of 0ne31 A Hungarian man, reportedly under the influence, caused a scene at the site of a collapsed building, claiming his friends were trapped underneath the debris. He was eventually subdued by authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356513-drunken-hungarian-man-sparks-chaos-at-building-collapse-site/

Picture courtesy of 0ne31 A Hungarian man, reportedly under the influence, caused a scene at the site of a collapsed building, claiming his friends were trapped underneath the debris. He was eventually subdued by authorities. Witnesses relayed that the incident transpired at the Office of the Auditor General collapse site. The Hungarian national, who flew from Hungary to Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport, initially hired a taxi for approximately 4,000 baht. He told the driver he would stop at the disaster scene before continuing to Pattaya. Upon arrival, he questioned why cranes and machinery were idle, attempting to breach the cordoned-off area. Military, police, and rescue personnel stepped in to calm him and explained the situation. The taxi driver recounted picking him up at around 5:30 am, noting the passenger's intent to visit the collapse site first despite a planned trip to Pattaya. The man was evidently intoxicated after consuming alcohol, becoming disruptive when they reached the site. Picture courtesy of 0ne31 Authorities eventually brokered a deal requiring the foreigner to pay only 300 baht for the journey, which the driver contested, citing the initial 4,000 baht agreement given the five-hour trip. After negotiations, the Hungarian apologised to officials, embracing them in gratitude. He chose not to accompany the police but instead travel with the taxi driver to sort out the fare at Bang Sue Police Station. Based on a story by One31 -- 2025-04-02