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Bangkok repays 2.3 billion baht in debt owed to BTS Skytrain by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ กรุงเทพมหานคร Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced yesterday that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) had repaid its 2.3 billion baht in debt to the Bangkok Mass Transit System, commonly known as the BTS. It is hoped that this debt repayment will give the private sector confidence to invest in future projects with the BMA. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324208-bangkok-repays-23-billion-baht-in-debt-owed-to-bts-skytrain/

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced yesterday that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) had repaid its 2.3 billion baht in debt to the Bangkok Mass Transit System, commonly known as the BTS. It is hoped that this debt repayment will give the private sector confidence to invest in future projects with the BMA. The debt owed by BMA to the BTS became a matter of public interest after Skytrain publicly shamed government officials by airing debt collection videos on every screen inside the trains and stations in 2023. The operator also threatened to shut down the train system if the BMA failed to repay the debt. Chadchart reported in a press conference yesterday, April 4, that the BMA had already issued a cheque to the BTS on April 2 after thorough consideration by the Bangkok Council. The 57 year old Bangkok chief stated that the BMA hoped this debt repayment would make the private sector more confident in investing in future projects with the BMA and recognising the importance of urban development. Chadchart added that the annual budget allocated to the BMA might prove insufficient to fund all forthcoming infrastructure projects. The BMA is hopeful that the private sector will place trust in its capabilities and collaborate effectively with officials. A report by Bangkokbiznews indicates that this debt is associated with the BTS Green Line project and its extensions, linking Bangkok, Samut Prakarn, and Pathum Thani. Workpoint Today highlighted that the initial repayment of this debt amounts to approximately 30 billion baht, with 2.3 billion baht designated for the electrical and mechanical systems’ expenses. The remaining debt includes 6.9 billion baht for the construction of two extensions (Bearing to Kheha station and Mor Chit to Khu Khot station) and more than 9 billion baht for operational costs since April 2017. In an interview last year, Chadchart revealed that BMA receives about 80 billion baht in budget per year, which is allocated to transport, urban planning, waste disposal, etc. The governor also mentioned the new train lines in Bangkok last year, the Gray Line (Watcharapon-Thong Lor) and Silver Line (Bang Na-Suvarnabhumi Airport). The projects were reported to be under study, and there are no new updates on the projects now. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ กรุงเทพมหานคร Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Teen gang fatally shoots boy in Udon Thani province by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A group of teenagers ruthlessly chased down and fatally shot a 14 year old boy in the Nong Han District, Udon Thani province, leaving two of his peers severely injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324207-teen-gang-fatally-shoots-boy-in-udon-thani-province/

A group of teenagers ruthlessly chased down and fatally shot a 14 year old boy in the Nong Han District, Udon Thani province, leaving two of his peers severely injured. The horrific incident occurred on the evening of March 31, in the village of Ban Yang. Captured by CCTV, five youths on two motorcycles pursued the group to a dead-end alley where the shooting took place. The following day, law enforcement swiftly apprehended the suspects, identified as 16 year old Tang, the gunman; 15 year old Na, the motorcycle driver and weapon concealer; along with Mark, Wave, and Id, all 15 years old. The teenagers hail from the neighbouring Pa Kao community. Tang and Na confessed to the crime while the other three denied involvement. Police seized a homemade shotgun, known locally as an Epo gun, as evidence and charged the group with intentional murder and attempted murder. During the emotional funeral service for the deceased 14 year old, Arm, at Wat Na Kha, his mother, Supranee, and those close to him gathered for a final farewell. Mourners were enveloped in grief, especially Arm’s mother, who lamented the loss of her only son. Meanwhile, Tert, Arm’s friend who had miraculously survived a head injury, joined the mourners, and Chita, the other friend who was injured, remained hospitalised. After the funeral, Supranee revealed a chilling detail: a fresh bloodstain mysteriously appeared opposite where Arm had died, a sign she interpreted as her son’s spirit seeking justice. In a harrowing twist, the perpetrators continued to post threatening messages online, insinuating that Arm’s friends might be their next targets, heightening fears of further violence. Supranee expressed concern for her family’s safety and for those close to Arm, reported KhaoSod. In a poignant account, Kanyarat, Arm’s aunt, recounted how her five year old son claimed to have seen Arm’s spirit pacing in front of their house, a vision that occurred after a ceremony to invite Arm’s spirit home, suggesting that the young boy was not ready to leave and was seeking a final goodbye. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Tourists undeterred by Taiwan earthquakes for Songkran by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of China Daily Despite Taiwan experiencing its most significant earthquake in a quarter of a century and a series of tremors in Japan, Thai tourists are undeterred and continue with their planned holidays during the Songkran period. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324206-thai-tourists-undeterred-by-taiwan-earthquakes-for-songkran/

Despite Taiwan experiencing its most significant earthquake in a quarter of a century and a series of tremors in Japan, Thai tourists are undeterred and continue with their planned holidays during the Songkran period. Charoen Wangananont, President of the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), revealed that the majority of Thai tourists had already secured their tour packages, flight tickets, and accommodation, meaning they cannot seek refunds should they cancel their trips. Wangananont disclosed that concerns were raised about travel safety after news of the Taiwan earthquake emerged. However, upon understanding that the affected regions were on the island’s eastern side, tourists opted to proceed with their original tour plans. Despite southern Japan also issuing earthquake and tsunami warnings, these incidents did not affect the outbound tour programmes scheduled for Japan during Songkran, according to Wangananont. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of China Daily Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai student arrested for using AI to create explicit celebrity images by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Chon Buri Province arrested a 25 year old man for allegedly creating and distributing explicit images of celebrities using artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324205-thai-student-arrested-for-using-ai-to-create-explicit-celebrity-images/

Police in Chon Buri Province arrested a 25 year old man for allegedly creating and distributing explicit images of celebrities using artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The student, Suphanat, has been previously apprehended for similar offences and was found with over 1,000 doctored images. The arrest on April 5, 2024, by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) led by Police Major General Athip Pongsiwapai, followed an investigation that stemmed from an earlier case in March. Authorities had detained an individual claiming to be a teacher offering courses on using artificial intelligence for image manipulation. This teacher facilitated the creation of explicit images of well-known individuals and sold them in a private group in exchange for membership fees. Continuing their investigation, the police identified a network of the teacher’s students who exhibited similar behaviour. They used AI applications easily accessible via mobile phones to digitally remove clothing from photos of artists, actors, and celebrities, thus creating explicit content. These creations were then posted for sale in a secret group, where members paid for access to the content. The CCIB team, which included Police Colonel Chisanupong Hwaidi, Police Lieutenant Colonel Phubadee Empranit, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Nawapol Patanibul, conducted a raid on Suphanat’s residence in the area of Khao Kansong, Si Racha District. During the raid, they seized a notebook computer, a mobile phone, and a bankbook. Upon interrogation, Suphanat confessed to editing the images for financial gain and admitted to posting them to a private group. He disclosed that the altered images stored in a cloud system numbered over a thousand. The evidence collected prompted the police to take Suphanat into custody, transferring him to the investigative officers of the CCIB’s 3rd division for further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod. This case highlights the ongoing battle against digital crimes, particularly the misuse of AI for creating and spreading illicit material. It underscores the need for stringent vigilance and law enforcement in the digital realm to protect individuals’ privacy and prevent the exploitation of technology for illegal activities. Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

Thailand grapples with scorching 43C heatwave and health risks by Nattapong Westwood Picture of tourists neat the Grand Palace courtesy of Bangkok Post The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a health warning today as Thailand grapples with a heatwave as temperatures soar to extreme highs of up to 43 degrees Celsius in the north, northeast, and central regions, compounded by moderate to high levels of dust accumulation and smoke haze. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324204-thailand-grapples-with-scorching-43c-heatwave-and-health-risks/

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a health warning today as Thailand grapples with a heatwave as temperatures soar to extreme highs of up to 43 degrees Celsius in the north, northeast, and central regions, compounded by moderate to high levels of dust accumulation and smoke haze. Today, April 5, the country is enveloped in a heat-induced low-pressure system, leading to predominantly hot to very hot weather conditions and clear skies during the day, prompting a strong recommendation for the public to take care of their health by avoiding prolonged outdoor activities. The prevalent hot weather is due to a low-pressure area caused by intense heat covering the upper part of Thailand. This condition results in generally hot to very hot weather across the country with partly cloudy skies during the day. People are advised to look after their health as the temperatures reach scorching levels. In avoiding health risks during this period of excessive heat, it is recommended that outdoor work or activities be limited, especially for extended periods. Meanwhile, the southern winds continue to affect the eastern region, leading to occasional thunderstorms in some areas. Residents are urged to be cautious of the dangers posed by these storms. Similarly, the Southeastern winds blowing over the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region, as well as the northwesterly winds over the Andaman Sea, bring thunderstorms to some parts of the south. Dust particles and smoke haze: The north, northeast, and neutral regions are currently experiencing a build-up of dust particles and smoke haze, categorized from moderate to high levels, due to weak winds in those areas. Hot hot heat In the north, the weather is generally hot to very hot with partly cloudy skies during the day. The lowest temperatures range from 21-28 degrees Celsius, with the highest temperatures between 39-43 degrees Celsius. The southwesterly winds are blowing at speeds of 5-15 km/h. The northeast also faces similarly hot conditions, with temperatures ranging from 22-28 degrees Celsius at the lowest and 39-41 degrees Celsius at the peak, accompanied by the same southwesterly winds. The central region is not spared from the heat, with maximum temperatures hitting between 38-42 degrees Celsius and minimum temperatures of 24-27 degrees Celsius. Winds from the Southwest are stronger here, ranging from 10-25 km/h. The eastern region is generally hot, with partly cloudy skies, and very hot in some areas with a 10% chance of thunderstorms, particularly in the provinces of Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. The lowest temperatures are between 25-29 degrees Celsius, while the highest can reach 34-40 degrees Celsius. The southerly winds are moving at 10-30 km/h, causing sea waves to remain below one meter in height, but rising above 1 metre in storm-affected areas. The southern region (east coast) experiences hot daytime weather with a 10% chance of thunderstorms, mostly affecting the provinces of Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, and Yala. Temperatures range from 24-26 degrees Celsius at the lowest to 34-39 degrees Celsius at the highest. The southeastern winds, blowing at 10-30 km/h, keep the sea waves below one meter, but they can rise above 1 metre during thunderstorms. On the west coast of the south, conditions are similar, with Krabi, Trang, and Satun experiencing daytime heat and a 10% chance of thunderstorms. The lowest temperatures are between 25-28 degrees Celsius, and the highest are 34-38 degrees Celsius. The northwesterly winds at 10-30 km/h create the same sea conditions as on the east coast. Bangkok and its vicinity are also facing generally hot weather with partly cloudy skies during the day, minimum temperatures of 27-29 degrees Celsius, and maximum temperatures of 34-39 degrees Celsius. The Southerly winds at 10-25 km/h contribute to the prevailing conditions in the capital region. by Nattapong Westwood Picture of tourists neat the Grand Palace courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Laem Phromthep’s sunset spectacle threatened by caterpillars by Mitch Connor Picture of the iconic palm trees on Laem Phromthep courtesy of the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Laem Phromthep, a popular sunset viewpoint in Phuket known for its iconic Palmyra palm trees, is under threat due to an infestation of black-headed caterpillars. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324203-laem-phromthep’s-sunset-spectacle-threatened-by-caterpillars/

Laem Phromthep, a popular sunset viewpoint in Phuket known for its iconic Palmyra palm trees, is under threat due to an infestation of black-headed caterpillars. The local governor, Sophon Suwannarat, observed this alarming situation during a recent visit to the cape. He attributed the sudden surge in the caterpillar population to the uncharacteristically prolonged dry spell in the past few months. If no action is taken to curb the caterpillar spread, the palm trees could potentially die out, significantly altering the picturesque landscape of Laem Phromthep, warned the governor. The head of Phuket’s agriculture office, Jarassri Khampeesing, detailed the damage caused by these pests. The caterpillars attack the palm leaves, causing them to turn brown and wilt. To eradicate the issue, the affected leaves need to be burnt. However, transporting them elsewhere for disposal could risk spreading the caterpillars to other areas. Khampeesing suggested an alternative solution involving the introduction of Habrobracon hebetors, tiny wasps known for their ability to control pest populations. Using pesticides is another viable option. Rawai municipality’s mayor, Arun Solas, highlighted the importance of the palmyra palm trees in the Laem Phromthep landscape. These trees have long attracted visitors to the area, contributing significantly to its appeal. Solas assured that funds have been allocated to eliminate the caterpillar infestation and prevent future attacks on the cape’s trees, reported Bangkok Post. In related environmental news, the Committee on Land, Natural Resources and Environment from the House of Representatives yesterday landed in Phuket to conduct a study tour and resolve land disputes. The visit, led by the committee chairman, Apichart Sirisunthon, who also holds the position of Secretary-General of the Move Forward Party (MFP), sought to address the local land disputes and wastewater issues. Numerous complaints received by the committee informed the initiative. Apichart Sirisunthon and his delegation convened a meeting at the Phuket Provincial Hall, under the helm of Phuket Governor Suwan Suwannarat. The gathering, attended by high-ranking Phuket officials and several public members, was an opportunity to voice feedback and suggestions. by Mitch Connor Picture of the iconic palm trees on Laem Phromthep courtesy of the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

MFP alleges govt embezzlement in RTN frigate procurement by Mitch Connor Picture of Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand’s leading opposition group the Move Forward Party (MFP) has levelled charges at the government for alleged embezzlement about the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) planned acquisition of a new frigate. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324202-mfp-alleges-govt-embezzlement-in-rtn-frigate-procurement/

Thailand’s leading opposition group the Move Forward Party (MFP) has levelled charges at the government for alleged embezzlement about the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) planned acquisition of a new frigate. The controversy, now infamously dubbed as the “change money” scandal, was brought into the limelight by Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, an MP from the MFP, on the final day of a general debate in Parliament that did not culminate in a censure vote. His allegations ignited a fiery exchange between the opposing factions of the government. The “change money” scandal typically involves a buyer procuring a product at a pre-arranged inflated price, with the seller returning the difference between the actual and inflated price to the buyer. In the present scenario, this act is being interpreted as a purported attempt at state funds embezzlement. Wiroj alleged that an RTN insider informed him about a government representative attempting to solicit the “change money” from the RTN’s frigate procurement funds, an offer that was refused by the navy. He claimed that a special House committee responsible for scrutinising the 2024 budget subsequently turned down the RTN’s budget request for the new frigate in the 2024 fiscal year and dismissed the RTN’s appeal against the decision. According to Wiroj, the new frigate, which is planned to be locally assembled, is paramount to the RTN’s central mission as HTMS Rattanakosin is due for decommissioning in two years. He highlighted the impact of this on the country’s naval strength, claiming that only three frigates will remain in service, potentially insufficient for maritime defence missions. Wiroj also emphasised the significance of the new frigate as the first of its kind to be assembled in Thailand. He claimed the assembly process would create jobs and income for local workers, facilitate the transfer of technical expertise in shipbuilding, and utilise locally sourced construction materials. Frigate procurement Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang affirmed that the frigate procurement project would continue as per schedule, despite the House committee rejecting the budget request. He suggested that the project would proceed in subsequent fiscal years, excluding the current 2024 fiscal year. The RTN had earlier requested 17 billion baht from the 2024 budget to support its frigate procurement plans, with an estimated 1.7 billion baht earmarked for the first year. The new frigate is intended for deployment along the Andaman coast. Shipyards from various countries including the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Italy, Turkey, and South Korea, in addition to local firms, have shown interest in constructing a frigate for the navy. Responding to Wiroj’s allegations, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin urged him to present evidence to substantiate his accusations. “In principle, the procurement of a new frigate that will be locally assembled is a good idea. But several issues, such as international relations, must also be taken into account. Talks are being held to ensure the navy gets the best deal.” He further expressed surprise at the MFP’s support for the frigate purchase project, given their previous suggestion to replace the navy’s warships with fishing trawlers. Defence Minister Sutin echoed this sentiment, noting the MFP’s annual opposition to military procurement projects, and expressing surprise at their support for the frigate purchase. by Mitch Connor Picture of Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Governor warns of fuel station scams this Songkran by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post To safeguard consumers against potential exploitation during the upcoming Songkran festivities, Prachuap Khiri Khan’s provincial authorities have unleashed a new campaign. Led by Deputy Governor Komkrit Charoenpatanasombat, the crackdown aims to ensure fair pricing at fuel stations across the province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324201-governor-warns-of-fuel-station-scams-this-songkran/

To safeguard consumers against potential exploitation during the upcoming Songkran festivities, Prachuap Khiri Khan’s provincial authorities have unleashed a new campaign. Led by Deputy Governor Komkrit Charoenpatanasombat, the crackdown aims to ensure fair pricing at fuel stations across the province. Accompanied by a team of officials including Siriwan Kanasorn, Nopadol Suwongpradit, and Chanthip Niamprad, inspections were conducted yesterday, to prevent any nefarious practices that could leave motorists out of pocket. The focal point of these inspections was the accuracy of fuel metering devices, ensuring adherence to national standards. Utilising a 5-litre standard measuring container as a benchmark, officials verified that the fuel dispensed matched the advertised quantity within legal tolerances, with all stations found to be compliant. To bolster consumer rights and market fairness, officials issued a stern reminder. Any instances of misconduct such as overpricing or discrepancies between advertised and actual prices must be promptly reported. Consumers are urged to utilise the Department of Internal Trade’s 24-hour hotline at 1569 or file complaints at any provincial commercial office, reported Hua Hin Today. Prachuap Khiri Khan’s local government isn’t pulling any punches against offenders. Penalties for violations range from fines up to 10,000 baht for failing to display price tags, to imprisonment for up to seven years coupled with fines reaching 140,000 baht for severe offences like overcharging, hoarding, or refusal to sell. In related news, the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB) stated that a potential increase in domestic diesel prices, which could surpass 30 baht a litre following the termination of the Oil Fuel Fund subsidy scheme on March 31, is unlikely to prompt manufacturers to raise the prices of their goods. In other news, Tri Petch Isuzu, Thailand’s Isuzu vehicle distributor, is joining forces with PTT Plc to test vehicles powered by a novel clean fuel. This initiative is aimed at supporting efforts to reduce the high carbon dioxide emissions from Thailand’s transport sector. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Reckless Handling of Gasoline Causes Pattaya Shop Fire, One Person Injured By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A man was filling bottles with gasoline while smoking a cigarette when the gasoline suddenly caught fire and burned the man and his house, causing him moderate injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324199-reckless-handling-of-gasoline-causes-pattaya-shop-fire-one-person-injured/

Pattaya — A man was filling bottles with gasoline while smoking a cigarette when the gasoline suddenly caught fire and burned the man and his house, causing him moderate injuries. The incident took place at 8:23 PM on Wednesday, April 3rd, 2024, at a shop house on the opposite of the Pattaya Provincial Court in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. Three fire trucks were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, firefighters found a large crowd of people gathered around the burning house. The fire had engulfed the zinc-roofed house, and the flames were intense. Firefighters evacuated nearby residents and used water cannons to extinguish the fire. It took them nearly 30 minutes to bring the fire under control. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai condo market dominated by Chinese and Russian investors by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Expats Foreign buyers from China and Russia dominated the Thai condominium market in 2023, as per data from the Real Estate Information Center (REIC). The report disclosed a total of 14,449 units, valued at 73.2 billion baht, were purchased by international buyers, marking a 25% increase from 2022. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324198-thai-condo-market-dominated-by-chinese-and-russian-investors/

Foreign buyers from China and Russia dominated the Thai condominium market in 2023, as per data from the Real Estate Information Center (REIC). The report disclosed a total of 14,449 units, valued at 73.2 billion baht, were purchased by international buyers, marking a 25% increase from 2022. Chinese investors led the way, acquiring 6,614 units, approximately 46% of the total sales, amounting to 34.1 billion baht. Russian buyers followed, purchasing 1,260 units. Myanmar and the United States buyers trailed in the third and fourth positions, respectively. Interestingly, the highest average price per unit, at 6.6 million baht, was paid by buyers from Myanmar. The majority of these sales, about 41%, were recorded in Chon Buri, known for the resort city of Pattaya and numerous industrial estates. Bangkok’s condominium sales to foreigners accounted for 38% of the total, with units priced below 3 billion baht making up nearly half of these purchases. It is noteworthy that in 2023, condominiums bought by foreign investors constituted approximately 13.4% of all transferred condos. The law stipulates that foreigners can own up to 49% of a condominium development’s usable space. The surge in sales was attributed to temporary visa waivers granted to tourists from China and other countries last year, along with a permanent bilateral waiver with Beijing from March 1, the REIC reported. Geopolitical conflicts such as Russia’s war with Ukraine and political instability in Myanmar were also factors. REIC acting director Wichai Wiratkaphan believes the foreign condominium purchases are improving and returning to normal. Foreign condominium sales in 2023 were 13% higher than the 12,798 units sold for a total of 50.6 billion baht in 2019, as per REIC data. Tourism, a sector directly responsible for about 12% of the country’s gross domestic product and nearly a fifth of jobs, is viewed by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin as a key driver to boost the country’s sluggish economic growth. Along this line, last year, the government waived visas for travellers from China, Russia, Kazakhstan, India and Taiwan. Additionally, airlines were instructed to add more routes and streamline airport operations to reduce waiting times. The Tourism Authority of Thailand anticipates a further recovery to between 35 million and 40 million visitors this year, including 8.2 million from China. This projection brings the country closer to the record of almost 40 million visitors set in 2019, before the pandemic, reported Bangkok Post. Picture courtesy of Stay in Thailand by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Expats Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s airports to see more than two million jet-setters by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation The Transport Ministry anticipates a surge of 2.61 million travellers across Airports of Thailand (AOT)’s six international hubs during the seven-day Songkran festivities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324197-thailand’s-airports-to-see-more-than-two-million-jet-setters/

The Transport Ministry anticipates a surge of 2.61 million travellers across Airports of Thailand (AOT)’s six international hubs during the seven-day Songkran festivities. Minister Suriya, in a recent announcement, affirmed preparations for the expected influx, rallying relevant agencies to gear up for the travel onslaught spanning from April 11 to 17. Ensuring passenger comfort and safety remains paramount, Suriya directed AOT to execute stringent measures across all airports. Projections indicate a whopping 28.5% increase in passenger volume compared to last year, with an estimated 1.65 million foreigners and a considerable number of local travellers. Additionally, flight frequencies are slated to soar, with 15,113 flights scheduled, marking a 16.71% surge from the previous year, comprising 8,682 international and 6,431 domestic flights. To alleviate potential parking woes, Suriya announced complimentary parking privileges at Suvarnabhumi International Airport’s Zone D from April 12 to 16 and at Don Mueang International Airport’s fifth-floor car park from April 11 to 17. Meanwhile, AOT’s CEO, Kirati Kitmanawat, unveiled plans for a dedicated coordination hub, ensuring round-the-clock assistance and surveillance to guarantee passenger well-being. Amidst the travel frenzy, passengers are encouraged to streamline their airport experience by utilising automated kiosks for boarding and luggage handling, thereby sidestepping lengthy queues, reported The Nation. With meticulous planning and provisions in place, Thailand aims to navigate the impending travel surge with efficiency and ease. In related news, several international airlines have urged Thailand to enhance its key airport facilities and improve transport links between airports and cities, to meet its ambition of becoming a regional aviation hub. The Thai government has laid out a goal of handling 150 million passengers annually by 2030. Egaluk Ngiwprom, Southeast Asia marketing manager of Spring Airlines, believes this is a challenging target and suggests numerous areas that need attention. In other news, Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport is gearing up for an influx of approximately 625,000 passengers during the Songkran holiday period, which runs from April 11 to 17. It expects over 4,000 flights, marking a substantial 10.58% rise from the previous year’s data. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Hua Hin News 04/24 - Events, Day trips, Death Railway, HH Sailing, Stateless people, property advice Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324196-hua-hin-news-0424-events-day-trips-death-railway-hh-sailing-property-advice/

Andrew Sloan and Richard Buckle chat about some local news and what's coming up and happening in the beautiful sea side town of Hua Hin. Also some tips on what to think about when buying property in Hua Hin. 0:00 - Introduction 1:27 - Death Railway Revisited - River Kwai 5:46 - Hua Hin Sailing club 8:05 - Jungle Aid charity trip to stateless village 10:54 - The Isan Project music and videos of Thailand 13:36 - Acrobatic Theatre in Hua Hin 14:43 - What happening and news in Hua Hin 21:15 - Khao Sam Roi Yot national park view point Podcast: Death Railway Revisited, by Nicholas Fordham https://rss.com/podcasts/death-railwa... Please COMMENT, SUBSCRIBE, LIKE AND SHARE to support our channel. Our thanks to Richard Buckle of https://surf.radio for the Hua Hin Update.

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 5 April 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324195-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-5-april-2024/