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THE BUS that caught fire on Vibhavadi Rangsit road leading to the tragic death of 23 mainly kindergarten and primary schoolchildren and teachers had been in use for 54 years with the engine switched from Isuzu to Benz at a later date, Amarin TV said this morning (Oct. 2). This bus, the second of a convoy of three, was travelling from Wat Khao Phraya Sangkharam School in Uthai Thani province on a field trip for mainly around a hundred kindergarten and primary schoolchildren to Ayutthaya Historical Park and Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (Egat) headquarters in Nonthaburi. The vehicle had caught fire in front of the National Memorial on Vibhavadi Rangsit road at 12.25 p.m. yesterday with police saying a tyre had exploded triggering the inferno. Firefighters said the sight of children’s bodies piled up at the rear exit door was horrifying. The Land Transport Department revealed that this Isuzu branded bus was registered on February 19, 1970. It was specified as a non-regular passenger vehicle with 41 seats and a total weight of 16,600kg. In 2018, the department was notified that the bus had been modified with a Benz engine installed. Last tax was paid in May this year. by TNR Staff TOP: Scenes from the bus inferno on Vibhavadi Rangsit road. Photos: Amarin TV Full story: THAI NEWSROOM -- 2024-10-02

Driver Flees Scene After Attempting to Extinguish Flames in Bus Fire Tragedy video screenshot A shocking video has emerged showing the moments when Mr. Saman Janphut, the 48-year-old driver of a school bus that caught fire, attempted to open emergency exits and find a fire extinguisher to help. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339616-driver-flees-scene-after-attempting-to-extinguish-flames-in-bus-fire-tragedy/

video screenshot A shocking video has emerged showing the moments when Mr. Saman Janphut, the 48-year-old driver of a school bus that caught fire, attempted to open emergency exits and find a fire extinguisher to help. This incident occurred during a field trip organized by Wat Khao Phra Ya Sangharam School in Uthai Thani, resulting in 23 fatalities and several injuries. Following the incident, the driver fled the scene, prompting authorities to launch an investigation. The Department of Land Transport has since suspended the operating license of the rental company involved in the incident and is reviewing safety measures. Mr. Saman eventually surrendered to the police at Wichai Chai Police Station, where he was taken into custody by investigators. He was then transported in a black Fortuner to Khu Khot Police Station in Pathum Thani, the site of the fire. During the fire, surveillance footage captured the bus engulfed in flames. In the video, Mr. Saman can be seen exiting the driver’s side of the bus, which was already on fire. He initially attempted to open the middle doors, but when that failed, he ran to the emergency exit at the rear of the bus. However, the door wouldn't budge, and the flames intensified, leading him to run around to the back of the bus, reported Matichon Online. A TikTok user shared footage of the fire, showing Mr. Saman rushing to retrieve a fire extinguisher provided by a Good Samaritan. He made an effort to spray the flames engulfing the bus before fleeing the scene. -- 2024-10-02

Sinking scandal: Pattaya’s new footpaths crumbling already by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya’s shiny new footpaths along Thepprasit Road are becoming a crumbling mess, raising serious questions about the city’s infrastructure projects. Barely completed, the paths are already sinking and cracking, sparking outrage from residents and city officials. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339614-sinking-scandal-pattaya’s-new-footpaths-crumbling-already/

Pattaya’s shiny new footpaths along Thepprasit Road are becoming a crumbling mess, raising serious questions about the city’s infrastructure projects. Barely completed, the paths are already sinking and cracking, sparking outrage from residents and city officials. During a heated City Hall meeting, Nikom Saengkaew, a concerned Council Member, blew the whistle on the poor construction. “Why are we seeing such rapid deterioration? What kind of materials were used here?” Nikom pointed out that sand, not cement, was found beneath the sidewalk surface – a shocking shortcut that has caused major structural issues. Locals had already sounded the alarm, reporting widespread damage, and their concerns were quickly validated. The substandard work has not only ruined the walkways but also led to a larger investigation into the project’s management. Nikom is now pushing for urgent repairs to be made under the project’s warranty and demanding accountability from those responsible. Deputy Mayor Manot Nongyai reassured the public, confirming that the footpaths are indeed covered under warranty, and inspections are underway. But there’s more to this sinking saga. Manot revealed that parked motorcycles and cars on the footpaths have only worsened the damage. “Enforcement of traffic laws remains inconsistent.” Although efforts have been made to tackle illegal parking, the damage is already done, and repairs are now a race against time, reported Pattaya Mail. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-02

Prime Minister in Tears Over Tragic Bangkok School Bus Fire Picture courtesy: TNA A tearful and visibly emotional Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her deep sorrow on October 1, following a devastating fire that engulfed a school bus, resulting in multiple injuries and fatalities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339613-prime-minister-in-tears-over-tragic-bangkok-school-bus-fire/

A tearful and visibly emotional Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed her deep sorrow on October 1, following a devastating fire that engulfed a school bus, resulting in multiple injuries and fatalities. The tragic incident involved a bus carrying kindergarten students from Uthai Thani Province. Upon completing a press conference detailing the latest Cabinet meeting outcomes, Prime Minister Paetongtarn was briefed on the incident just before departing for Pak Kret District in Nonthaburi to oversee water management projects at the Royal Irrigation Department. As she descended from Command Building 1, reporters inquired if she had been informed about the tragic fire. The Prime Minister, deeply affected, did not verbally respond but nodded and was seen crying as she walked towards the Thai Khu Fah Building. In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Paetongtarn has promptly dispatched key officials to the scene. Those dispatched include Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Suriya Juangroongruangkit, and Deputy Minister of Interior Sabida Thaichet, who hails from Uthai Thani, the home province of the affected children. The immediate government priority is to offer full support and condolences to the families affected and provide necessary medical and emotional support to those injured. Prime Minister Paetongtarn has also called for a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the fire and to implement measures to prevent such tragedies in the future, reported Pattaya Mail. As the nation mourns, Prime Minister Paetongtarn's visible grief underscores the severity of the incident and its deep impact on the entire country. The government's swift response aims to provide solace and support during this tragic time while reaffirming its commitment to the safety of all citizens, especially children. Picture courtesy: TNA -- 2024-10-02

Thai Military to Withdraw from South, Volunteers to Step In by 2027 FILE photo courtesy: Facebook FM91 The Ministry of Interior and the Internal Security Operations Command (Isoc) have announced plans to withdraw military forces from Thailand's southernmost provinces by 2027, transitioning the responsibility for public safety to local volunteer forces. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339610-thai-military-to-withdraw-from-south-volunteers-to-step-in-by-2027/

The Ministry of Interior and the Internal Security Operations Command (Isoc) have announced plans to withdraw military forces from Thailand's southernmost provinces by 2027, transitioning the responsibility for public safety to local volunteer forces. In a recent ceremony, Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Army Commander Charoenchai Hintao signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at bolstering local volunteer forces through joint training initiatives. This strategic collaboration is designed to ease the military’s workload while ensuring continued public safety. "The MoU signifies strengthened cooperation between the Ministry of Interior and Isoc. The volunteer forces, who are local residents, inherently understand their communities and will undergo additional training to better manage public order and safety," Minister Anutin stated. "We have observed steady progress during multiple visits and are confident that the volunteer forces will be adequately prepared to fulfill their duties by 2027," he added. General Charoenchai highlighted that the operational framework in the southern border provinces has always been a collaborative effort among civilians, the police, and the military under Isoc's guidance. By 2027, control is expected to transition to the Department of Provincial Administration, alongside volunteer forces and police. However, he cautioned that the government might reassess the plan if the security situation does not improve. "The volunteers already possess a strong foundation, but to ensure seamless cooperation, joint training exercises are necessary," Gen Charoenchai explained. "These volunteers will be crucial for the government in maintaining public safety and providing necessary support," he emphasized. An official announcement, signed by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and published in the Royal Gazette on September 25, stated that due to the prevailing security concerns in the southern region, the enforcement of the Internal Security Act will be extended in 19 districts across four provinces from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. The districts affected include Yi-ngo, Sungai Kolok, Waeng, and Sukhirin in Narathiwat; Yaring, Panare, Mayo, Mai Kaen, Thung Yang Daeng, Kapho, and Mae Laen in Pattani; Betong, Raman, Kabang, and Krong Pinang in Yala; and Na Thawi, Chana, Thepha, and Saba Yoi in Songkhla, reported Bangkok Post. As this transition unfolds, the Ministry of Interior and Isoc remain committed to ensuring that volunteer forces are thoroughly prepared to take on their new roles, ensuring a continued emphasis on public safety and community security in southern Thailand. FILE photo courtesy: Facebook FM91 -- 2024-10-02

Four Charges Filed Against Driver in Bus Fire That Killed 23 Rescuers gather at the site of a bus that caught fire, carrying young students with their teachers, in suburban Bangkok, Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Authorities have filed four charges against the driver of a bus that caught fire on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, resulting in the deaths of 23 students and teachers. The driver, Mr. Saman, claimed he fled in panic to Ang Thong after the incident. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339609-four-charges-filed-against-driver-in-bus-fire-that-killed-23/

Rescuers gather at the site of a bus that caught fire, carrying young students with their teachers, in suburban Bangkok, Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Authorities have filed four charges against the driver of a bus that caught fire on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, resulting in the deaths of 23 students and teachers. The driver, Mr. Saman, claimed he fled in panic to Ang Thong after the incident. On October 2, 2024, Police Major General Chayanon Meesati, Deputy Commander of Provincial Police Region 1, along with other officials, visited the site to interrogate Mr. Saman. He was transporting students on a field trip when the fire broke out. After a thorough investigation, Mr. Saman voluntarily surrendered to the police at Wichai Chai Police Station in Ang Thong last night (October 1). He was then transferred for further questioning at Khu Khot Police Station in Pathum Thani. Major General Chayanon reported that Mr. Saman claimed he was the second bus in a convoy, driving at a speed of approximately 70-80 km/h. When he reached the accident site, the bus swerved as if hitting a pothole, which caused it to behave as if a tire had blown or the suspension had failed. As a result, the bus collided with a Benz sedan. In his attempt to regain control, Mr. Saman crashed into a roadside barrier, igniting a fire. Following the incident, he attempted to retrieve a fire extinguisher from the following bus but, overwhelmed by shock, decided to flee to a relative's house in Ang Thong. The initial charges against Mr. Saman include reckless driving endangering life or property, negligent driving resulting in death, negligent driving causing bodily harm, and failing to assist or report the incident leading to fatalities. Major General Chayanon indicated that it is uncertain whether the suspect will be remanded to Thanyaburi Provincial Court today (October 2) due to ongoing investigations. Additionally, authorities are awaiting the results of an inspection of the bus and its gas tank to determine if further charges will be filed against the vehicle's owner, reported Thai PBS. Currently, among the three injured individuals, two—a 7-year-old and a 9-year-old—are in critical condition and have been transferred to Thammasat Chalermprakiat Hospital. A 14-year-old remains hospitalized at Phet Rangsit Hospital. At approximately 8:30 AM today, Khu Khot Police will set up a table at the Police Hospital's Forensic Institute to facilitate questioning the relatives of the deceased. -- 2024-10-02

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 2 October 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339607-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-2-october-2024/

NEWS - 02-October (1).mp4 The death toll following a fire on a school bus just north of Bangkok yesterday claimed the lives of at least 20 children and three adults, a further Sixteen students and three teachers were injured and taken to hospital. The bus driver fled the scene and turned his mobile phone off He later walked into a police station in pathum thani where he is currently being detained. Rescuers said the front left tyre had blown out, and caught fire. The driver lost control, the bus and hit the central road barrier, flames then spread through the vehicle. Doctors said Two injured students were on ventilators in ICU), and another was likely to lose their sight, while the others were recovering from burns. The government has updated the level of compensation for flood victims to a standard 9,000 baht per household, replacing the previous rates of 5,000, 7,000, or 9,000 baht. Low-interest loans will be offered to small and medium-sized businesses, as well as freelancers impacted by the floods. The Government Savings Bank has suspended debt payments and waived interest for SMEs from now until the end of the year. Police seized over 13 million methamphetamine pills and arrested two drug couriers in Bang Saphan, Prachuap Khiri Khan yesterday. Officers stopped a 22-wheel truck at a checkpoint on Phetkasem Road, and discovered the pills hidden in plastic baskets.. The driver and his companion admitted to collecting the drugs in Nonthaburi and driving towards Nakhon Si Thammarat, where they would be smuggled out of the country. The Ministry of Interior and the Internal Security Operations Command are looking to withdraw military forces from southern border provinces by 2027, An army general said operations there have been a joint effort between civilians, the police and the military and there was every confidence volunteers would be able to manage the situation. However If the situation does not improve, the government will consider further options. Across the region Cambodia: court yesterday charged an investigative journalist with "inciting social unrest", meaning he may face two years in prison. The arrest of Mech Dara, drew concern from rights groups and the US. The court claimed the reporter, who has worked for local and international media, had posted "provocative" and "false" messages. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Rain and Thunderstorms 28C degrees celsius Bangkok: sunny with thunderstorms 32C Pattaya: cloudy Thundershowers 31C Phuket and the south: cloudy with rain 30C Hua Hin: Sunny becoming cloudy with heavy rain showers likely this afternoon 31C Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-10-02 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5

Bank of Thailand Intervenes to Manage Baht's Exchange Rate FILE photo courtesy: NAtional News Bureau of Thailand The Bank of Thailand has confirmed its active intervention to manage the value of the baht against the US dollar, aiming to ensure the currency’s fluctuations are in sync with regional currencies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339606-bank-of-thailand-intervenes-to-manage-bahts-exchange-rate/

FILE photo courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand The Bank of Thailand has confirmed its active intervention to manage the value of the baht against the US dollar, aiming to ensure the currency’s fluctuations are in sync with regional currencies. On Monday, Chayawadee Chai-anant, the central bank's assistant governor for corporate relations, announced that the bank has recently taken measures to regulate the baht's exchange rate. "Our intervention intends to align with regional currency movements, ensuring stability," she stated. The central bank's international reserves have benefitted from both these interventions and the depreciation of the dollar. Gross international reserves climbed to $235.6 billion in August, up from $230.6 billion in July and $224 billion in June. Similarly, net international reserves rose to $262 billion in August, compared to $258 billion in July and $252.6 billion in June. Ms. Chayawadee pointed out that while the baht’s appreciation against the dollar positions it as one of the leading regional currencies, it remains behind the Malaysian ringgit. She acknowledged the rapid strengthening of the baht and assured that the central bank is closely monitoring its movements to mitigate any negative impact on the economy. The adjustment in the baht's value has mixed implications for local businesses. A stronger baht could reduce export revenues due to foreign exchange conversions, particularly for those lacking effective hedging strategies. However, Ms. Chayawadee emphasized that the stronger baht is unlikely to impact the tourism sector adversely in the final quarter of this year. "International tourists generally welcome a firmer baht against the dollar, which helps them better manage their spending in Thailand," she said. Key visitor markets, including China, Malaysia, and Japan, have also seen their currencies appreciate relative to the dollar, supporting this optimistic outlook. The central bank reported that foreign tourist numbers in August reached 3 million, after seasonal adjustments, marking a slight decline of 0.1% from the previous month. Despite this, tourist spending has remained steady. The bank anticipates an improvement in foreign traveler numbers in September compared to August, reported Bangkok Post. Economic data shows a mixed picture: while visitors from China and Malaysia decreased in August, there was an uptick in tourists from countries like Japan and India. As per the central bank, tourism revenue remained stable, primarily due to higher spending per trip. Adding to this, the Kasikorn Research Center noted that the baht strengthened to 32.17 baht per dollar during Monday's trading, hitting its highest level in 31 months. The central bank continues to monitor these trends closely to maintain economic stability. -- 2024-10-02

Thai PM Faces Legal Scrutiny Over Delayed Divestment of Golf Club Shares FILE photo courtesy: Siam Rath Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is under legal scrutiny after political activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana filed a petition with the Election Commission (EC), questioning her delayed divestment of shares in Alpine Golf and Sports Club. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339605-thai-pm-faces-legal-scrutiny-over-delayed-divestment-of-golf-club-shares/

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is under legal scrutiny after political activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana filed a petition with the Election Commission (EC), questioning her delayed divestment of shares in Alpine Golf and Sports Club. Ruangkrai alleges that Paetongtarn held a 30% stake in the club until September 3, two weeks after assuming office as prime minister. Thai law prohibits ministers from holding more than 5% of shares in any company to prevent conflicts of interest. Paetongtarn, also leader of the Pheu Thai Party, transferred her shares to her mother, Khunying Potjaman Na Pombejra, after taking office. Ruangkrai urged the EC to expedite the investigation and announced plans to file a similar complaint with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). This petition is one of 13 filed so far against Paetongtarn and the Pheu Thai Party, six of which were initiated by Ruangkrai, all alleging corruption or ethical violations. Land Controversy Alpine Golf and Sports Club, linked to the Shinawatra family, has been embroiled in a long-standing controversy over its land holdings in Pathum Thani province. The land, initially donated to a temple in 1971, was later sold to Alpine Real Estate and Alpine Golf and Sports Club under questionable circumstances. The Council of State ruled the sale illegal, as the land was classified as monastic property. In 2017, former Pheu Thai leader Yongyuth Wichaidit was sentenced to two years in prison for his role in facilitating the sale. His appeal was unsuccessful, and although he was released in 2020 on health grounds, he was required to wear an electronic monitoring bracelet until the completion of his sentence, reported Bangkok Post. Ruangkrai’s latest petition adds further legal pressure on Paetongtarn, as demands for a thorough investigation continue to rise. FILE photo courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-10-02

Former Yellow Shirt Leader Behind Airport Shutdown Threatens Mass Protests FILE photo Sondhi Limthongkul. Courtesy: Wikipedia Former yellow-shirt leader and orchestrator of the infamous airport shutdown, Sondhi Limthongkul, is considering a return to mass protests. He plans to monitor the government’s performance through early next year before deciding whether to take action. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339604-former-yellow-shirt-leader-behind-airport-shutdown-threatens-mass-protests/

FILE photo Sondhi Limthongkul. Courtesy: Wikipedia Former yellow-shirt leader and orchestrator of the infamous airport shutdown, Sondhi Limthongkul, is considering a return to mass protests. He plans to monitor the government’s performance through early next year before deciding whether to take action. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has urged Sondhi not to proceed with his protest plans, encouraging dialogue instead. She emphasized that her administration is still in its early stages, asking, "I’ve been in office barely a month. Does he really want to oust me already? Sondhi, once a media mogul and founder of the Manager group, discussed his potential protest during his YouTube program on Monday. He was a co-leader of the now-defunct People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD), a group that played a pivotal role in rallies against the government of Thaksin Shinawatra, Paetongtarn’s father, in the mid-2000s. These protests culminated in a military coup that ousted Thaksin in 2006. After Thaksin-affiliated parties won the 2007 general election, Sondhi once again led yellow-shirt protests. In 2008, PAD members famously shut down Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports for 10 days, disrupting the economy and making headlines worldwide. The PAD disbanded in 2013, and earlier this year, Sondhi and 31 others were acquitted of insurrection charges linked to those protests. Sondhi has had his share of personal challenges as well. In 2009, he narrowly survived an assassination attempt when gunmen ambushed his car, leaving him with a severe head wound that required surgery. The culprits were never identified, though his son speculated that a faction within the military or police might have been involved. In 2016, Sondhi was sentenced to 20 years in prison for falsifying documents to secure a 1-billion-baht loan from Krungthai Bank. He was released in 2019 following a royal pardon, reported Bangkok Post. Now, at 77, Sondhi says he will assess the government’s performance in the coming months. If he detects any ethical breaches or misconduct, he may once again lead the charge for mass protests. Inc -- 2024-10-02

Thaksin May Evade Jail Again After Alleged Fake-Out at Police Hospital File photo courtesy: Thai Rath There are fresh concerns that Thaksin Shinawatra might evade prison time yet again, amid allegations of staging a fake illness during his stay at Police Hospital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339602-thaksin-may-evade-jail-again-after-alleged-fake-out-at-police-hospital/

There are fresh concerns that Thaksin Shinawatra might evade prison time yet again, amid allegations of staging a fake illness during his stay at Police Hospital. The father of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra allegedly feigned critical illnesses last year, securing a six-month stay at the hospital instead of Bangkok Remand Prison, until his release on parole earlier this year. Thaksin originally fled Thailand in 2008, after facing power abuse charges. He purported to be attending the Olympic Games in Beijing, but then embarked on prolonged global self-exile. According to a partisan source, Thaksin could be exploring ways to dodge potential new charges of perjury related to the purported fake-out at Police Hospital. The source, who wished to remain anonymous, hinted at possible escape plans akin to those of Thaksin’s sister, former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who fled to Cambodia and then onto another country after being deposed in the 2014 coup. Thaksin has kept a low profile over the last few weeks, possibly in preparation for facing charges of deliberate perjury, despite receiving a royal pardon that curtailed his eight-year jail sentence to just one year. According to reports from the National Human Rights Commission, Thaksin had not spent a single day behind bars but instead enjoyed undue privileges at Police Hospital. Support for the perjury charges appears to be mounting. Former police chief and Thai Liberal Party leader Seripisut Temiyavej is expected to testify before the National Anti-Corruption Commission. Senior officials from the Justice Ministry, Corrections Department, and Police Hospital could also be implicated in facilitating Thaksin’s alleged fake-out. Furthermore, Thaksin is scheduled to appear in court next June on delayed charges related to Section 112 of the Criminal Code, also known as the lese majeste law. The charges stem from a 2015 interview in Seoul, where Thaksin allegedly referenced the monarchy in relation to the 2006 coup that ousted him from power. Thaksin denies these allegations, claiming he has been framed by political adversaries, including those now part of his daughter’s Pheu Thai-led coalition government. With these latest developments, it remains to be seen whether Thaksin will face justice or find another means to evade it, as he has in the past. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-02

Thai Airways flight runs off runway in Bangkok storm scare by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Aviation Source News Passengers on a Thai Airways (THAI) flight got more excitement than they bargained for when their Airbus A350-900 temporarily veered off the runway upon landing in Bangkok, causing a serious incident and damaging runway edge lights. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339594-thai-airways-flight-runs-off-runway-in-bangkok-storm-scare/

Photo courtesy of Aviation Source News Passengers on a Thai Airways (THAI) flight got more excitement than they bargained for when their Airbus A350-900 temporarily veered off the runway upon landing in Bangkok, causing a serious incident and damaging runway edge lights. THAI flight TG466, arriving from Melbourne on September 14, was making a standard approach to runway 19L at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) when things took a sharp turn—literally. The plane veered off the left edge of the runway during its landing roll, knocking out seven runway edge lights. Fortunately, the crew quickly regained control, bringing the aircraft back to the runway centreline before taxiing safely to the apron. Scattered thunderstorms and heavy rain had reduced visibility to around 3,000 metres, making conditions tricky for landing. A preliminary report by Thailand’s aviation regulator, AAIIC, classified the incident as serious. Despite the tense moment, the flight had otherwise been routine, with a smooth departure from Melbourne and a steady approach to Bangkok. THAI’s A350-900, registered HS-THD, is a relatively young aircraft, only 7.5 years old, and has been in operation since April 2017. It was grounded following the incident but returned to service on September 25. The AAIIC has launched an investigation to determine what went wrong during the landing. Passengers and aviation enthusiasts alike are waiting to hear the final verdict on how this near-miss unfolded at one of the busiest airports in the world, reported Aviation Source News. Photo courtesy of Aviation Source News by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-02

Prawit No Longer Accepts Salary, Entitlement Pay As MP By Thai Newsroom Reporters Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan. Top photo: Thai Rath, Front Page photo: Naewna PALANG PRACHARATH LEADER Prawit Wongsuwan has today (Oct. 1) resolved to no longer accept the salary and entitlement pay to which he is eligible as an MP and to return all the money which he has earlier accepted. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339593-prawit-no-longer-accepts-salary-entitlement-pay-as-mp/

PALANG PRACHARATH LEADER Prawit Wongsuwan has today (Oct. 1) resolved to no longer accept the salary and entitlement pay to which he is eligible as an MP and to return all the money which he has earlier accepted. Prawit, the only party-listed MP of the second largest opposition party who has admitted having taken leave from parliament many times has remarkably decided to not accept the salary and entitlement pay any longer and to return the whole sum of money which he has already accepted monthly from the House of Representatives since last year, confirmed Palang Pracharath secretary-general Paiboon Nititawan. Prawit will not only decline to accept the salary and entitlement pay throughout the current legislative term but until his MP status is legally terminated, Paiboon said. By Thai Newsroom Reporters TOP: Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan. Top photo: Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM -- 2024-10-02