webfact

Consumer confidence in Thailand saw its first improvement in eight months this October, driven by reduced concerns over recent floods and improved economic conditions influenced by government policies. The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC) reported a rise in the consumer confidence index to 56, up from 55.3 in September. The consumer confidence index, which measures consumers’ outlook on the economy, remains below the 100-point threshold, indicating persistent weak confidence. This is attributed to the sluggish pace of economic recovery, rising living costs, elevated interest rates, and global geopolitical tensions impacting consumer spending power and willingness to spend. Flooding across the country has subsided, and the government’s distribution of cash handouts has given consumers more capacity to spend, according to Thanavath Phonvichai, UTCC president. Nonetheless, concerns about the slow pace of economic recovery and high living costs continue to linger among consumers. “The decreasing index reflects consumers’ declining confidence in the recovery of the Thai economy despite the government’s stimulus policies.” Thanavath further indicated that sentiment could improve further if the government enacts additional stimulus measures by the end of the year. Photo courtesy of CEIC In a related development, a separate UTCC survey involving chamber members nationwide showed a slight dip in confidence, with the index falling to 48.9 in October from 49.4 in September. This decline highlights ongoing consumer trepidation regarding overall economic conditions, including consumption, trade, investment, and tourism sectors. Somchai Pornrattanacharoen, honorary advisor to the Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Association, commented on the short-lived stimulus effect of the 10,000-baht cash handouts to vulnerable groups. Despite its potential to boost the retail sector, local shops have yet to witness a marked increase in sales, as some recipients may be opting to spend on non-essential items. The UTCC has called on the government to bolster consumer confidence through additional economic initiatives. Recommendations include enhancing tourism at year’s end, developing workforce skills, providing financial support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and enforcing stricter control over the influx of inexpensive and substandard goods from China. Maintaining the stability of the baht is also emphasised as a critical factor in fostering economic recovery. As the year progresses, the interplay between government actions and consumer sentiment will be pivotal in steering Thailand’s economic trajectory. The UTCC remains attentive to these dynamics, advocating for policies that address both immediate consumer needs and long-term economic resilience, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of MGR Online Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15

Pattaya City councillor ‘paves’ the way for safer roads by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail In a proactive move to address complaints over potentially dangerous road conditions, Pattaya City Council member Wutthithorn Saengurai inspected an ongoing road project on Sukhumvit Road near the South Pattaya intersection yesterday, November 14. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343639-pattaya-city-councillor-‘paves’-the-way-for-safer-roads/

In a proactive move to address complaints over potentially dangerous road conditions, Pattaya City Council member Wutthithorn Saengurai inspected an ongoing road project on Sukhumvit Road near the South Pattaya intersection yesterday, November 14. Accompanied by top officials from the Drainage System Maintenance Division, Sanitary Engineering Division, and the Pattaya City Administration’s Complaint Reception Department, Wutthithorn responded to residents’ concerns about unfinished and potentially hazardous roadwork. Local complaints centred on the Provincial Waterworks Authority’s (PWA) road excavation work to install new water pipes. Residents claimed the project left old wire mesh scattered on the road, raising concerns over road safety. On inspection, Wutthithorn discovered that, while the old mesh was part of efforts to reinforce the road, some had been improperly disposed of, creating an unsightly and potentially dangerous obstacle. “The wire mesh on the road was indeed part of the PWA’s efforts to strengthen the area.” Wutthithorn instructed the contractor to promptly restore the road surface to prevent future subsidence issues and avoid any damage to the nearby drainage systems. This inspection is part of Pattaya City’s dedication to maintaining infrastructure quality and responding to public complaints swiftly. Pattaya City officials assured the public that they are committed to maintaining local infrastructure to the highest standards and that steps will be taken to ensure the road is safe for drivers and pedestrians, reported Pattaya Mail. Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail In related news, fed-up locals and tourists have finally had enough. Complaints have been pouring in over the ongoing roadworks near Wat Mai Samraan and Tawaen Beach Pier, prompting city officials to spring into action. With mounting frustration, city bosses have now cracked the whip on the sluggish construction project, demanding faster progress. In other news, more than 100 illegal foreign workers have been uncovered by immigration police during a significant operation at a luxury hotel construction site on Pattaya Second Road, Chon Buri province. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15

Chon Buri police arrest three for trafficking 10 year old Burmese girl by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Police in Chon Buri apprehended two Thai individuals and a Myanmar citizen, accusing them of trafficking a young girl from Myanmar to work under exploitative conditions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343636-chon-buri-police-arrest-three-for-trafficking-10-year-old-burmese-girl/ Full story:

Police in Chon Buri apprehended two Thai individuals and a Myanmar citizen, accusing them of trafficking a young girl from Myanmar to work under exploitative conditions. The arrests, executed by the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD) and the local office of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), followed court-issued warrants. The Thai nationals involved were identified as 65 year old Porntip and 50 year old Saman, along with Myanmar national Naw Tha Tha Yee. According to the Thai police, these individuals face severe charges, including human trafficking and the exploitation of minors under 15 years old. This operation marked the climax of an investigation initiated in February after a 10 year old girl was discovered sleeping in a cemetery in Chon Buri. The child, bearing signs of physical abuse with bruises on her arms and legs, was promptly taken under the care of the MSDHS. Investigations revealed the girl’s illegal entry into Thailand from Myanmar, prompting police intervention. Officers discovered that Yee had allegedly bought the child from her parents in Myanmar, subsequently registering her as an adopted daughter in 2022. Arrangements were made for the girl’s clandestine entry into Thailand through Tak province. Initially, the child was taken to Saman’s residence in Samut Prakan before being moved to Porntip’s home in Chon Buri, where she was coerced into working as a domestic helper. The girl recounted to officials her harrowing experiences, stating that she was frequently locked up, subjected to physical abuse, and deprived of food whenever she erred, which ultimately led to her escape. Upon apprehending the suspects, police discovered another young girl and uncovered evidence hinting at the possible trafficking of a third girl into the country. This disturbing discovery underscores the urgent need for continued vigilance and action against human trafficking activities, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15

TMD sounds the ‘rain’ alarm as monsoon hits 28 provinces by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Maksym Ivashchenko, Unsplash The latest weather conditions have prompted the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) to issue a warning for severe monsoon rains affecting 28 provinces across Thailand, including Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343630-tmd-sounds-the-‘rain’-alarm-as-monsoon-hits-28-provinces/

The latest weather conditions have prompted the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) to issue a warning for severe monsoon rains affecting 28 provinces across Thailand, including Bangkok. The capital is expected to experience intense rainfall covering 40% of the area, requiring residents to exercise caution. Throughout the northern and northeastern regions of Thailand, cooler temperatures and morning fog are anticipated. Residents are advised to take care of their health due to the fluctuating weather conditions and exercise caution when travelling in foggy areas. Farmers should also prepare to protect their crops from potential rain-induced damage during this period. The eastern and southeastern winds are bringing moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, affecting the lower northeastern, eastern, and central regions, including Bangkok and its vicinity, as well as the upper southern region. Meanwhile, a high-pressure system or cool air mass covering the north and upper northeast is weakening. The northeastern monsoon, also weak, is sweeping over the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region, resulting in isolated thunderstorms in the south. In the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, waves are generally low, not exceeding 1 metre, but may rise above 2 metres in stormy areas. Mariners are advised to avoid sailing in areas with thunderstorms. The weather forecast for Thailand from 6am today until 6am tomorrow indicates that the northern region will experience cool weather with morning fog. A slight increase in temperature is expected, with isolated light rain mainly in the upper parts. The lowest temperatures range from 20 to 23 degrees Celsius, while the highest are between 33 and 36 degrees Celsius. On mountain peaks, conditions will be cool to cold, with temperatures dropping to between 10 and 16 degrees Celsius. The northeast wind is expected to blow at speeds of 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. Monsoon rains In the northeastern region, the upper part will be cool with morning fog, and a slight temperature rise is expected. Rain or thunderstorms are predicted in 10% of the area, mostly in Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, and Sisaket provinces. Temperatures will range from 19 to 26 degrees Celsius at their lowest and 34 to 35 degrees Celsius at their highest. On mountain peaks, cool to cold weather is expected, with temperatures between 14 and 18 degrees Celsius. The northeast wind will blow at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The central region will see some morning fog, with rain or thunderstorms expected in 30% of the area, primarily in Kanchanaburi, Suphan Buri, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram provinces. The lowest temperatures will be between 21 and 25 degrees Celsius, and the highest between 32 and 36 degrees Celsius. The northeast wind will blow at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. In the eastern region, morning fog is expected, with rain or thunderstorms in 40% of the area, particularly in Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. Temperatures will range from 24 to 27 degrees Celsius at their lowest and 32 to 35 degrees Celsius at their highest. The northeast wind will blow at speeds of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves below 1 metre, rising to over 2 metres in stormy areas. The southern region (eastern coast) is expected to see thunderstorms in 30% of the area, predominantly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Songkhla, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces. The lowest temperatures will be between 23 and 25 degrees Celsius, and the highest between 31 and 35 degrees Celsius. The northeast wind will blow at speeds of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves below 1 metre, rising to over 2 metres in stormy areas. On the southern region’s western coast, thunderstorms are expected in 30% of the area, mainly in Krabi, Trang, and Satun provinces. The lowest temperatures will be between 23 and 26 degrees Celsius, with highs between 32 and 35 degrees Celsius. The east wind will blow at speeds of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves below 1 metre, rising to over 2 metres in stormy areas, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its surrounding areas will experience some morning fog, with rain or thunderstorms expected in 40% of the area. Temperatures will range from 25 to 27 degrees Celsius at their lowest and 31 to 34 degrees Celsius at their highest. The northeast wind will blow at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Maksym Ivashchenko, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15

Bangkok Motor Expo shifts into high gear to rev up bookings by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Motor Show Buckle up, folks! The 41st Bangkok International Motor Expo is zooming into town tomorrow, and car distributors are hoping for a much-needed boost in bookings, despite the market feeling like it’s stuck in first gear. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343629-bangkok-motor-expo-shifts-into-high-gear-to-rev-up-bookings/

Buckle up, folks! The 41st Bangkok International Motor Expo is zooming into town tomorrow, and car distributors are hoping for a much-needed boost in bookings, despite the market feeling like it’s stuck in first gear. Last year saw a whopping 53,248 bookings, and this time around, organisers are revved up to beat that record this year. Kwanchai Paphatphong, the man behind the wheel of the Motor Expo Organising Committee, is confident that the new line-up of electric vehicle (EV) brands will electrify booking numbers. He’s banking on the snazzy marketing campaigns by car companies to lure in customers and spark sales in the final lap of the year. This motor extravaganza runs for 12 action-packed days, crossing the finish line on December 10. It showcases 42 car brands from nine countries, 22 motorbike brands from seven countries, and a handful of used car dealers. Among the shining stars are eight new EV contenders from China, ready to make their mark, said Siamnat Panassorn, vice-chairman of the Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand. “The spotlight is definitely on the fresh EV faces. We reckon they’ll pull out all the stops with irresistible deals and finance options for those itching to go green.” Bangkok Post reports that organisers are gearing up for a tyre-screeching 1.5 million visitors, with the potential to generate a cool 72 billion baht for the automotive sector. The Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand is betting that these EVs will turbocharge domestic sales through the year’s tail end. While EVs have grabbed a 32.9% slice of the pie in the first nine months, traditional petrol-guzzlers are still hogging the road, according to the Federation of Thai Industries. Hybrids have been cruising ahead of both battery-powered and plug-in hybrid EVs. But hold your horses: Siamnat warns that this year, EV sales might not hit last year’s high of 74,000 units. Why? Tighter bank purse strings, courtesy of high household debt, are putting the brakes on some buyers. So, as the Bangkok Motor Expo hits the throttle, all eyes are on the EVs to see if they’ll drive the market into the fast lane. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Motor Show Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15

Thailand Considers Nuclear Energy as Gas Supplies Dwindle File photo for reference only. Courtesy: wikimedia Thailand's journey towards nuclear energy takes centre stage as the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) delves into a proposed small modular reactor (SMR) project. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343628-thailand-considers-nuclear-energy-as-gas-supplies-dwindle/

File photo for reference only. Courtesy: wikimedia Thailand's journey towards nuclear energy takes centre stage as the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) delves into a proposed small modular reactor (SMR) project. With domestic gas shortages looming, the nation is looking to supplement its energy mix amidst unsuccessful negotiations with Cambodia over joint petroleum production in a contested area of the Gulf of Thailand. The overlapping claims area (OCA) has the potential to yield a new gas field, but progress has been marred by concerns that the 2001 memorandum of understanding could undermine Thailand's control over Koh Kut island, a picturesque tourist spot. Faced with diminishing natural gas reserves, Thailand's ambition to shore up its energy sources is evident in the 2024 power development plan, which emphasises clean energy. Small modular reactors, offering up to 300 megawatts of power each, present a nuclear alternative, these reactors promise a third of the capacity of traditional nuclear power plants but with a potentially less invasive footprint. Poonpat Leesombatpiboon, chief of the ERC, revealed plans for a collaboration with the Office for Atoms for Peace, with a memorandum of understanding to jointly explore the nuclear venture. According to insiders, the 2024 development plan, extending through 2037, envisions the installation of two SMRs, each designed to deliver 300 megawatts, by the plan's conclusion. The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) will lead this nuclear initiative, supported by insights from a 125-MW SMR project in Hainan, China. EGAT governor Thapparat Theppitak, impressed by the advanced technology, dubbed SMRs a "game changer" for the global energy landscape. While the cost of SMRs currently outweighs that of combined-cycle power plants, Thapparat believes prices will drop, and their 60-year lifespan offers a significant advantage over the 25-year average of gas or coal-fired plants. As Thailand grapples with these intricate energy challenges, the ERC's nuclear strategy could redefine the nation's power landscape. -- 2024-11-15

Thai Man's Heartbreak as Missing Dog Found Slaughtered Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a tragic turn of events, a Thai man’s search for his beloved dog, Sushi, ended in heartbreak after he discovered the pet had been slaughtered and eaten. The man, whose plea for help circulated widely online, had initially given Sushi to an Akha villager in Pa Sang Noi, Mae Chan District, Chiang Rai Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343616-thai-mans-heartbreak-as-missing-dog-found-slaughtered/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a tragic turn of events, a Thai man’s search for his beloved dog, Sushi, ended in heartbreak after he discovered the pet had been slaughtered and eaten. The man, whose plea for help circulated widely online, had initially given Sushi to an Akha villager in Pa Sang Noi, Mae Chan District, Chiang Rai Province. However, shortly after the adoption, communication with the villager ceased, sparking alarm and concern. Driven by desperation, the owner took to social media, sharing the story and asking for help in locating Sushi, which quickly attracted the attention of animal rights activists and the general public. As the post went viral, the Watchdog Thailand Foundation (WDT) intervened, coordinating efforts with local authorities, including the Chiang Rai Provincial Livestock Office. The widespread attention led police to track down and question the villager who had taken Sushi. Under interrogation, the villager confessed to being part of a network involved in taking dogs under the pretense of adoption, only to transport them to slaughterhouses. Shockingly, it was revealed that Sushi had already been killed and consumed. The disturbing admission also implicated the deaths of three other dogs - Bear, Lucky, and Sumo – each of whom had fallen victim to the same scheme. This case has highlighted a troubling issue in Thailand, where animal protection laws are often difficult to enforce, particularly in rural areas where cultural practices vary. Although Thailand has enacted an Animal Welfare Act, campaigners say that greater enforcement and harsher penalties are essential to deter such cruel acts. Outraged by the revelations, the public has been demanding justice and accountability, with calls for stronger action to dismantle networks involved in dog slaughter and prevent further harm. Social media users have also urged local authorities to investigate thoroughly, as they fear there may be additional cases tied to the same group. This case has reignited a national debate over animal protection in Thailand, prompting widespread discussions on social media about the need for stricter laws and greater awareness. Animal rights activists, including those from WDT, have intensified their calls for legal action, insisting that those involved in the network should face prosecution under animal cruelty laws. Meanwhile, many Thais have come together online to advocate for Sushi and other dogs, rallying for justice and greater respect for animals. With growing public attention, authorities are under pressure to crack down on illegal practices surrounding animal slaughter and ensure the safety of pets, reported Khaosod online. -- 2024-11-15

UK Pensioners in Thailand Face New Scrutiny Over Pension Fraud File photo courtesy: Salzburg global x-account British pensioners living abroad, including in Thailand, will soon face enhanced scrutiny as UK banking confidentiality is set to change under new legislation targeting pension fraud. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343598-uk-pensioners-in-thailand-face-new-scrutiny-over-pension-fraud/

File photo courtesy: Salzburg global x-account British pensioners living abroad, including in Thailand, will soon face enhanced scrutiny as UK banking confidentiality is set to change under new legislation targeting pension fraud. The Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, currently under review in the House of Lords, is expected to take effect in early 2025, writes Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail. Under the bill, British banks and building societies must share account details with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) where there are suspicions of fraud involving British citizens, both in the UK and overseas. The bill addresses cases of a small minority of British expats allegedly concealing their residence in countries where they are not eligible for inflation-linked increases to their state pensions. While some countries, such as those in the EU and the Philippines, qualify for these annual increases, others - including Thailand and Australia - do not. Currently, around 500,000 British pensioners reside in countries with “frozen” pensions, and the DWP estimates that overpayments due to fraud exceed £100 million. Common tactics include maintaining a UK address for official DWP communications while living abroad. For example, a British pensioner based in Thailand was discovered last year after a neighbour returned a DWP letter with the note, “Lucky Sod Lives in Pattaya.” In another instance, a Bangkok-based pensioner’s deception was uncovered when his wife discovered he was enjoying himself in Bangkok rather than working in Baghdad, as he had claimed. However, Thailand’s advocacy group for ending frozen UK pensions argues that the issue of fraud is minor. A representative claimed that the primary issues are DWP processing errors and the discriminatory policy denying pension increases to expats based on location. Neither the previous Conservative nor the current Labour government has addressed these concerns. Additionally, pensioners have voiced frustrations with the unreliable international postal system. The UK authorities require proof of life certificates every three years to continue payments, but these documents are sent via regular mail, often resulting in lost letters and payment suspensions. Frank Weston, 68, a Pattaya-based pensioner, described the system as “insane and discriminatory” and advocated for a shift to a fully digital process, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2024-11-15

Chiang Mai: Free rent for grabs in exchange for taming neighbour Photo courtesy of Saranya Facebook page via The Nation A Chiang Mai homeowner is taking drastic measures to settle a neighbourhood feud by offering three months of rent-free living to anyone willing to stand up to a particularly “mad” bully next door. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343587-chiang-mai-free-rent-for-grabs-in-exchange-for-taming-neighbour/

Nightly Merry-Making at Pattaya Beach Challenges Law Enforcement Photo: The Pattaya News As evening falls upon the stretch of Thailand's Pattaya Beach, the carefree harmonies of music blend with the ocean's rhythm, punctuating the air with an atmosphere of jovial recklessness to the chagrin of local authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343581-nightly-merry-making-at-pattaya-beach-challenges-law-enforcement/

Baht to basics: Tourists’ wild rides on Phuket tuk tuks spark online uproar Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Thai netizens and a local news Facebook page criticised foreign tourists for their inappropriate behaviour on baht buses and tuk tuks in Phuket, expressing concerns over the safety of both the tourists themselves and other motorists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343586-baht-to-basics-tourists’-wild-rides-on-phuket-tuk-tuks-spark-online-uproar/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 15 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343506-thailand-live-friday-15-november-2024/

Picture courtesy: Media of Thailand Thailand's Loy Krathong Festival Illuminates Rivers Nationwide Celebrated 15 November across Thailand, the Loy Krathong festival sees communities gather to release beautiful, candlelit offerings called krathongs onto rivers, canals, and lakes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343505-thailands-loy-krathong-festival-illuminates-rivers-nationwide/

UPDATE: Thaksin In Hot Water Over Alleged Election Law Breach Picture courtesy: LINE Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai Party, might have found himself in hot water after potentially violating election laws during a campaign event yesterday in Udon Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343489-thaksin-delivers-first-speech-in-18-years-denies-interfering-with-pm/?do=findComment&comment=19381525

Thaksin In Hot Water Over Alleged Election Law Breach Picture courtesy: LINE Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai Party, might have found himself in hot water after potentially violating election laws during a campaign event yesterday in Udon Thani. This comes as Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, a former election commissioner, drew attention to Thaksin's remarks on Facebook, suggesting the breach was an inadvertent slip during his speech. Speaking to a crowd in the northeastern province, Thaksin expressed his support for Saravut Petpanomporn, the Pheu Thai candidate for the head of the Udon Thani provincial administration. He allegedly told the crowd that voting for Saravut would be akin to voting for him personally. Such a statement potentially contravenes the Local Election Act, as Thaksin is legally barred from holding political positions due to a prior Supreme Court ruling related to power abuse charges. The implications, should Thaksin be found guilty, are severe. He could face up to 10 years in prison or a fine reaching 200,000 baht. Moreover, if the court finds this breach invalidates the election, Saravut might receive a "yellow card," leading to the annulment of the November 24 election and necessitating a rerun, in which Saravut could participate once more. Saravut's main opponent in the race for the provincial administration head position is Khanisorn Khurirang, representing the People’s Party. As tensions mount, the electoral process remains under scrutiny, emphasising the delicate balance of legality and influence in Thai politics. In the meantime, observers eagerly await further developments to see if Thaksin's statements will have lasting repercussions, not only for him but for the Pheu Thai Party as well, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-14

Couple falls to their deaths in Chai Nat rice field well by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A couple lost their lives after falling into a 10-metre-deep well in a rice field in the central province of Chai Nat. The husband initially descended into the well but succumbed to a lack of oxygen, prompting his wife to attempt a rescue, ultimately resulting in both their deaths. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343529-couple-falls-to-their-deaths-in-chai-nat-rice-field-well/

by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A couple lost their lives after falling into a 10-metre-deep well in a rice field in the central province of Chai Nat. The husband initially descended into the well but succumbed to a lack of oxygen, prompting his wife to attempt a rescue, ultimately resulting in both their deaths. The distressing event was reported to the local police late last night. Charoenrit Thorasinh, a deputy investigator from Nang Lue Police Station, was alerted about the fatalities in a deep well situated amid a rice field in Nang Lue subdistrict, Chai Nat province at 11.30pm yesterday, November 13. Coordination with the Chai Nat Provincial Volunteer Foundation was also initiated to address the situation. The accident site was located approximately 1 kilometre into the rice fields, requiring the responders to drive along a narrow path before proceeding on foot for another 100 metres. At the bottom of a 10-metre-deep well, the bodies of a man and a woman were discovered, lying one over the other. Preliminary investigations identified the victims as 53 year old Poom and 50 year old Wongduan, who were husband and wife. The wife had gone down to assist her husband after he encountered difficulties, leading to this unfortunate outcome. Due to the depth of the well and the lack of appropriate equipment, the volunteers were unable to retrieve the bodies immediately. They had to request additional support and tools from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. However, because of the late hour and the absence of specialist personnel, the recovery of the bodies was postponed until this morning, November 14. Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A witness, 30 year old Piraphon, revealed that the couple had gone to work on a roof to provide shade and shelter for their tractor, which was used to pump groundwater. They likely descended into the well to fix a dislodged belt. It is believed that Poom went down first and was unable to manage, prompting Wongduan to follow him in an attempt to help, leading to the tragic incident. Piraphon explained that he went in search of them because they usually did not take their vehicle out due to the difficult terrain. Concerned about their prolonged absence, he decided to check on them. Wongduan’s father, 74 year old Boonmee, shared that he had been assisting with the roof construction for the tractor. He assumed the couple would not enter the well, so he turned his attention to another part of the field. However, when his grandson returned from spraying pesticides and found it late, he inquired about their whereabouts, initially thinking they might be resting in another part of the field. Upon realising that the couple had not come for dinner, he rushed back to the site, where he discovered their parked truck and feared the worst. Hastening to the well, they found both Poom and Wongduan had already died. Boonmee expressed his fear that his grandson might descend into the well too but assured that he had been warned against doing so, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-14

Koh Pha Ngan terror threat claims are really nothing, say police by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Nomadic Matt Security chiefs have stepped up to quash swirling rumours of a supposed terror plot targeting Israeli visitors on Thailand’s dazzling isle of Koh Pha Ngan. These whispers, dismissed outright by local officials, had sparked unwarranted concern among holidaymakers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343515-koh-pha-ngan-terror-threat-claims-are-really-nothing-say-police/