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Update: NASA and South Korea join forces to crack down on air pollution by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail South Korea’s National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER) and NASA have embarked on a mission to unravel the secrets of winter air pollution across Asia, including Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320382-nasa-and-south-korea-join-forces-to-crack-down-on-air-pollution/

South Korea’s National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER) and NASA have embarked on a mission to unravel the secrets of winter air pollution across Asia, including Thailand. Announced by the South Korean Ministry of Environment, this joint research initiative kicked off in South Korea and will span through Malaysia and Thailand, culminating on March 25. This year’s study, conducted from February to March, aims to delve into the factors contributing to escalated air pollution levels during the winter season, marking a departure from the previous investigation conducted between May and June 2016. The anticipated findings from this comprehensive research will be disseminated through detailed reports, serving both academic and policy-making purposes. The collaboration entails the Korean research team lending support to NASA’s endeavours in Asia, with a dedicated research station established in Chiang Mai province to scrutinise the causes and impacts of smog occurrences in winter. Additionally, a remote observatory stationed in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, will evaluate the efficacy of the Geostationary Environment Monitoring Spectrometer, a satellite launched by Korea in 2020 for monitoring air quality across 20 Asian nations. Commencing in the Philippines in early February, the air quality research will progress through various phases in South Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand. This year’s ASIA-AQ (Airborne and Satellite Investigation of Asian Air Quality) project significantly broadens the scope of the 2016 Korea-United States Air Quality study, encompassing more Asian countries and engaging over 500 participants from 45 teams, including research institutes, governmental organisations, and experts, reported Pattaya Mail. In addition to satellite data, the study will harness four Korean research aircraft, NASA’s aircraft, ground observation stations, and air quality modelling to conduct a comprehensive analysis of air quality in Korea. ORIGINAL STORY: NASA’s air pollution blitz: Ambitious mission to clear the skies In a move to tackle the global scourge of air pollution, NASA launched a series of missions aimed at revolutionising the way we forecast and combat this deadly threat. With millions of lives hanging in the balance each year due to air pollution-related illnesses, the need for accurate identification and tracking of pollutants has never been more pressing. Kicking off this revolutionary campaign in the Philippines, NASA’s state-of-the-art DC-8 aircraft takes to the skies, braving perilous altitudes as low as 15 metres (50 feet) from the ground to gather vital data on airborne particles. NASA’s Barry Lefer explained how this is done during a press briefing at Clark International Airport, situated approximately 80 kilometres north of Manila. “We can provide direct measurements of how much pollution is coming from different sources. And that’s one of the primary inputs to the air quality forecasting models.” While ground stations and satellites play crucial roles in monitoring air quality, they have limitations in discerning the intricate behaviour of pollutants in the atmosphere. Enter the DC-8, equipped with cutting-edge technology to bridge this gap, enhancing the accuracy of forecasting models and enabling more effective public warning systems. Maria Antonia Loyzaga, secretary of the Philippines Department of Environment and Natural Resources, emphasised the importance of integrating data from air, space, and ground sources for informed decision-making in public health, industrial compliance, and environmental conservation. Pollution hotspots Loaded with an array of highly sensitive instruments, NASA’s flying laboratory embarked on intensive flights over densely populated areas, including the Philippine capital region, charting a course to uncover pollution hotspots and patterns. Accompanying the DC-8 is a nimble NASA Gulfstream jet, equipped to create intricate three-dimensional maps of airborne pollutants, providing invaluable insights for policymakers and researchers. As the mission unfolds, the aircraft will traverse South Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand in the coming weeks, pooling data to enrich our understanding of air quality dynamics in the region. The findings, slated for public release within a year, promise to inform crucial policy decisions and drive concerted efforts to combat air pollution, reported Thai PBS World. Update by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Myanmar conflict may drive surge of workers to Thailand by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The ongoing conflict in Myanmar is predicted to drive its citizens towards Thailand in search of work, according to the Employers’ Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry (EconThai). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320378-myanmar-conflict-may-drive-surge-of-workers-to-thailand/

The ongoing conflict in Myanmar is predicted to drive its citizens towards Thailand in search of work, according to the Employers’ Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry (EconThai). Following the 2021 military coup and the government’s urgent need to bolster its forces through conscription, Myanmar residents eager to avoid the draft may seek refuge in Thailand, potentially entering the labour market illegally. EconThai Vice-Chairman Tanit Sorat urged the Thai government to be attentive to these potential labour market shifts, particularly concerning the working status and job applications of Myanmar nationals. Typically, individuals from neighbouring countries are permitted to work in Thailand through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Thailand and the nation in question. Thailand’s economy leans heavily on migrant workers from neighbouring countries, who typically take on menial roles often classified as the 3Ds – dirty, difficult, and dangerous – that Thai citizens prefer not to do, said Tanit. “We need migrant workers in many industries and the agricultural sector.” EconThai reports that Myanmar workers are found across a range of sectors in Thailand, including food processing, electronics, auto parts, tyres, garments and textiles, fisheries, sugar cane, rubber, and construction. They are primarily located in Bangkok or the provinces of Samut Sakhon, Pathum Thani, and Nakhon Pathom. At the moment, approximately 2.3 million workers from Myanmar, the largest group of migrant workers from neighbouring countries, are in Thailand. Many of these individuals enter through the MoU between the two nations, while others are granted permission to work following the Thai cabinet’s approval, said Tanit. “This number excludes illegal workers. If this group of workers were included, the total number of workers from Myanmar would be 4 million.” The political turmoil in Myanmar also impacts border trade, as businesses are forced to alter transportation routes and bear additional logistics costs. In related news, in Thailand’s Tak province, young Myanmar nationals, including women, evade military conscription, facing apprehension by border soldiers amidst rising resistance against Myanmar’s junta. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

World’s second-worst deep-fried delight a blessing? by Samantha Rose Photo courtesy of The Nation In the bustling Saturday night market of Phiman subdistrict, Satun’s Mueang district, a fried silkworm vendor stands proudly behind her sizzling cauldron of the world’s second-worst dish. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320377-world’s-second-worst-deep-fried-delight-a-blessing/

In the bustling Saturday night market of Phiman subdistrict, Satun’s Mueang district, a fried silkworm vendor stands proudly behind her sizzling cauldron of the world’s second-worst dish. The vendor, Patcharee Thongprasom, revealed that since the TasteAtlas verdict hit the headlines, it’s been raining customers. “Before, I’d shift around 2 kilogrammes a night. Now? Doubled to a whopping 4 kilos!” For just 20 baht a spoonful, patrons are lining up to sample this unconventional delicacy. One enthusiastic customer attests to its crispiness, tantalising taste, and pleasant aroma. On February 8, TasteAtlas dropped a bombshell: their list of the 70 worst-rated deep-fried dishes in the world placed Cambodia’s fried spider (A-ping) at the dubious summit, with Thailand’s fried silkworms trailing closely behind, reported The Nation. According to the website, once fried, these silkworms undergo a miraculous transformation – turning crunchy and greasy, with a flavour profile sometimes described as mildly bitter. Yet, amidst the scepticism, these Hon mhai silk worms are hailed for their protein-rich goodness and even believed by some to possess medicinal properties. In related news, a Singaporean TikTok user documented her gastronomic adventure at the night markets of Bangkok on January 14 when her intrigue in freshly fried insects landed her in hospital. In a 30-second video, Nicolette Wee enthusiastically showcased her purchase of a bag of grasshoppers. Undeterred by her insect escapade, the Singaporean tourist revisited the stall for more, this time opting for a bag of silkworm larvae. However, it seems her digestive system wasn’t prepared for this exotic feast, suffering what she described as a culture shock. In other news, a Thai food vendor sparked a debate on social media after giving free food to a foreign backpacker in the southern province of Surat Thani. Many netizens hailed the vendor’s gesture while others said the foreign woman just took advantage of Thais’ kindness. The vendor explained that she was preparing food on the table for her son. However, her son was too busy with customers and did not have time to eat. The foreign backpacker thought the food was leftover and asked if she could eat it, which the vendor allowed. by Samantha Rose Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s EGAT targets biomass, hydrogen to cut CO2 emissions by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Liden Cogen Power Plant The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is endeavouring to combat climate change by adopting alternative fuels to replace coal in its power plants. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320376-thailand’s-egat-targets-biomass-hydrogen-to-cut-co2-emissions/

The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is endeavouring to combat climate change by adopting alternative fuels to replace coal in its power plants. Partnering with the Forest Industry Organisation, a study is underway to identify fast-growing plants suitable for conversion into biomass fuel. This initiative falls within EGAT’s strategy for long-term CO2 reduction, as confirmed by Chaiwut Lakmuang, the assistant governor for sustainability management at EGAT. Chaiwut emphasised the importance of obtaining international standard certification for biomass fuel to ensure its effectiveness as a coal substitute. The collaboration between the two government agencies has resulted in a signed memorandum of understanding in their joint effort to pinpoint ideal locations for growing these plants. The Mae Moh power plant in Lampang, a northern province of Thailand, is targeted by EGAT to have 2% of its coal replaced with biomass fuel. This will significantly contribute towards reducing CO2 emissions, explained Chaiwut. The growth of plants not only absorbs CO2 but also creates job opportunities and additional income for local communities, reported Bangkok Post. EGAT’s subsidiary, Electricity Generating Plc (EGCO), has also been exploring sustainable alternatives by using hydrogen as a fuel source for its Linden Cogen Unit 6 power plant in the United States. The 172-megawatt plant in New Jersey has adopted a hydrogen blending programme that utilises a combined combustion of natural gas, hydrogen, and refinery off-gas, which is a by-product of crude oil refining. This method of utilising off-gas containing hydrogen from a nearby oil refinery, blended with natural gas, improves operational efficiency and reduces CO2 emissions by approximately 10% annually, announced Thepparat Theppitak, president of EGCO. National oil and gas conglomerate PTT Plc has also shown interest in hydrogen as a sustainable fuel source. The company has signed a memorandum of understanding with EGAT and ACWA Power, a Saudi Arabia-based renewable energy specialist, to co-develop green hydrogen. This green hydrogen, produced by using renewable energy to split water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen, can be used to power generation and manufacturing processes. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Liden Cogen Power Plant Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Alcohol and airports, more changes to both in Thailand - Tim Newton Today - Feb 20 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320374-alcohol-and-airports-more-changes-to-both-in-thailand-tim-newton-today-feb-20/

Thailand news - So the 2-5pm alcohol ban stays in place, but there are some other pressures to change the alcohol laws emerging, more changes at Thai airports as well as the introduction of new technology is aiming to make things faster and easier... we'll see, Singapore Air Show had an interesting announcement about SAF, more charter flights on the way from key tourism feeder markets. Masha Bucha Day is this Saturday, Burmese people flocking to immigration offices to get out of the country with the new military conscription laws. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.

Pollution turns Nonthaburi canal water pink by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of The Nation Reports revealed strange pink canal water in Nonthaburi on Valentine’s Day last week as scientists scrambled to uncover the truth behind the sudden rosy hue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320373-pollution-turns-nonthaburi-canal-water-pink/

Reports revealed strange pink canal water in Nonthaburi on Valentine’s Day last week as scientists scrambled to uncover the truth behind the sudden rosy hue. Experts from the Department of Science Service (DSS) embarked on an investigation uncovering startling findings that could change the way we see pollution. The case, discovered in Khlong Bang Phraek near the Big C department store on Tiwanon Street, sparked urgent calls for action. Armed with the compound light microscope, the Mobile Rapid Response Scientific Team (DSS Team) delved into the heart of the issue. Their investigations revealed a culprit lurking beneath the surface: purple sulfur bacteria, thriving in the stagnant waters of the Khlong Bang Phraek canal. Rungruang Kitpathi, the DSS Director-General explained that the anaerobic bacteria don’t need oxygen to wreak havoc; they feast on organic acids and hydrogen sulfide, turning the water into a sea of pink, reported The Nation. In the wake of this alarming discovery, Rungruang issued a stern warning to the public, advising against using canal water for domestic purposes and urging caution when coming into contact with it. “Immediate cleaning with water and soap is advised.” Rungruang proposed solutions to combat the canal’s oxygen deficiency, suggesting the installation of air-based aeration systems or reducing organic pollution discharge. “As we move forward, collaboration with relevant agencies is crucial to implement corrective measures.” In related news, the escalating issue of PM2.5 pollution in Thailand led the government to encourage the public to utilise public transportation, particularly in the most polluted areas. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin called for the public’s cooperation in the battle against the country’s increasing air pollution, which has seen a significant rise in recent days. In other news, in a move to tackle the global scourge of air pollution, NASA launched a series of missions aimed at revolutionising the way we forecast and combat this deadly threat. With millions of lives hanging in the balance each year due to air pollution-related illnesses, the need for accurate identification and tracking of pollutants has never been more pressing. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of The Nation Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Live animal smuggler caught at Bangkok airport A Mongolian man was arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Saturday, as he attempted to smuggle live protected animals out of the country, said Customs spokesperson Phantong Loykulnanta today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320372-live-animal-smuggler-caught-at-bangkok-airport/

A Mongolian man was arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Saturday, as he attempted to smuggle live protected animals out of the country, said Customs spokesperson Phantong Loykulnanta today. The suspect was about to board a flight to Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, when officials found 46 fish, two Komodo dragons, six Indian star tortoises, six iguanas, five pythons and a boa constrictor inside his luggage, which was to be loaded into the plane’s cargo hold. They are all protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).The suspect will be charged with a ttempting to export untaxed goods and with the smuggling of protected species, he added. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Ang Puang Thung Kham Cross Country Race returns for its second edition to support forest conservation By Online Reporter The second edition of the Ang Puang Thung Kham Cross Country Race will take place on March 3, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320370-ang-puang-thung-kham-cross-country-race-returns-for-its-second-edition/

The second edition of the Ang Puang Thung Kham Cross Country Race will take place on March 3, 2024. The event, known for its commitment to environmental preservation, aims to raise significant funds for forest conservation efforts while promoting health and tourism in the region. In a press conference held on February 16 at the Hua Hin Market Village shopping center, key figures including Mr. Polkrit Puangwalaisin, District Chief of Hua Hin, and Mr. Kaew Kongwong, District Chief of Cha-am, alongside Dr. Narong Tiemmeg from the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, and others, unveiled the plans for the “Ang Puang Thung Kham Cross Country Race 2nd Edition Net Zero Emission”. The race will take place around the scenic areas of Ang Puang Thung Kham and Huai Mai Tai reservoirs, both of which were developed as part of a royal initiative. By Online Reporter Full story: HUA HIN TODAY 2024-02-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand gears up for 4 expressway projects worth 120 billion baht by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iStock The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) is set to launch four expressway projects amounting to approximately 120 billion baht (US$3.3 billion). The projects, once approved and operational, are anticipated to stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities across the nation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320369-thailand-gears-up-for-4-expressway-projects-worth-120-billion-baht/

The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) is set to launch four expressway projects amounting to approximately 120 billion baht (US$3.3 billion). The projects, once approved and operational, are anticipated to stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities across the nation. Surachet Laophulsuk, the head of EXAT, revealed that the four proposals are ready for submission to the Cabinet for approval. Following the Cabinet’s consent, the projects will be open to bids for construction. Laophulsuk emphasized that the projects are well-researched and represent significant investments. They are anticipated to contribute positively to the nation’s economy while fostering job creation. Breaking down the projects, the first one involves the extension of the Chalongrach expressway from Chatuchot to Lam Luk Ka. This 16.2-kilometre extension comes with a budget allocation of 19 billion baht (US$525 million). The second project is a 17-kilometre double-deck expressway running from Ngam Wong Wan to Phaya Thai to Rama IX, which is earmarked at approximately 34 billion baht (US$940 million), reported Bangkok Post. The third expressway forms a part of the northern expressway. This project will link Prasert-Manukitch Road to the Bangkok Eastern Outer Ring Road over an 11.3-kilometre stretch. It carries a budget of 16.96 billion baht (US$469 million). The final project encompasses the first phase of a Phuket expressway, stretching 3.98 kilometres from Kathu to Patong with a cost of 14.67 billion baht (US$405), and its second phase extending 30.62 kilometres from Muang Mai to Koh Kaew to Kathu, which will require investment of 42.63 billion baht (US$1.17 billion). Laophulsuk indicated that the first project to be opened up for bids will be the Chalongrach expressway extension from Chatuchot to Lam Luk Ka. EXAT is in the final stages of drafting its Terms of Reference (TOR) for contractors. The construction of this project is projected to commence by the end of the year and is expected to be completed by 2027. In terms of funding, EXAT has already discussed the 19-billion-baht budget for this project with the Finance Ministry. According to Laophulsuk, there are no foreseeable hurdles as the agency has consistently yielded positive outcomes. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iStock Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

South Korea reaffirms commitment to Thailand amidst immigration controversy by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post South Korean ambassador to Thailand, Park Yong Min, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations amidst the recent controversy involving the alleged mistreatment of Thai travellers by South Korean immigration officials. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320368-south-korea-reaffirms-commitment-to-thailand-amidst-immigration-controversy/

South Korean ambassador to Thailand, Park Yong Min, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations amidst the recent controversy involving the alleged mistreatment of Thai travellers by South Korean immigration officials. Speaking to the Bangkok Post at the South Korean embassy in Bangkok, Park expressed his ambition to further economic cooperation between the two nations during his tenure. Thailand was among the first countries to support Korea during the Korean War in 1950, even before the formal establishment of diplomatic ties in 1958, Park stated. This act of solidarity has cultivated a deep-seated gratitude within Koreans. Last year marked the 65th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations between the two nations, a milestone celebrated with a summit held in September at the UN General Assembly. South Korea will continue to support the Mekong sub-region’s security, environmental and economic development under the Republic of Korea-Mekong cooperation framework. This cooperation has flourished since its inception in 2011, notably elevated to a summit in 2019 and culminating in a strategic partnership in 2020. The collaboration across the Mekong region has become more focused following the announcement of Seoul’s Indo-Pacific Strategy and the Korea-ASEAN Solidarity Initiative (KASI) in November 2022, reported Bangkok Post. Park also shared South Korea’s plan to double its annual contribution to the Korean-Mekong Cooperation Fund from US$5 million in 2022 to US$10 million in 2027. Furthermore, South Korea intends to join the Mekong River Commission (MRC) as a development partner. On the topic of soft power, the ambassador shared that South Korea’s success in promoting cultural arts was partly due to the government’s support of cultural content promotion policies in the 1990s. Government initiatives, including the establishment of a cultural industry department to nurture the industry, proved fundamental. Startup ventures Financial and tax assistance for startup ventures, particularly in the visual arts industry, played a significant role. The establishment of major cultural facilities, such as the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, the National Theater of Korea, the National Gugak Center, and the Korean Academy of Film Arts, has also greatly contributed to the nation’s soft power development. Park expressed confidence in the continued growth of Thai soft power policy, highlighting the country’s rich traditions. He looked forward to increased collaboration between South Korea and Thailand, with support from the South Korean embassy, the Korean Cultural Center, and the Korea Creative Agency Bangkok Center. Addressing the #banKorea controversy, sparked by reports of mistreatment of Thai tourists by South Korean immigration officials, Park assured that both governments are actively working to resolve the issue. Measures include increasing the availability of Thai interpreters at major points of entry and improving cultural sensitivity training for officials. Park also addressed concerns over illegal Thai workers in South Korea, stating that illegal stays distort the labour market and undermine the rule of law. While asserting that even illegal residents are entitled to protection under the law, Park emphasized the necessity to drastically reduce illegal stays, requiring collaborative efforts from both the Korean and Thai governments and their citizens. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Navy officer critically injured in Chon Buri road accident by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of SiamRath A navy officer was severely injured after his pickup truck crashed into a utility pole and flipped onto its roof on a road in Chon Buri province, trapping him inside the vehicle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320367-navy-officer-critically-injured-in-chon-buri-road-accident/

A navy officer was severely injured after his pickup truck crashed into a utility pole and flipped onto its roof on a road in Chon Buri province, trapping him inside the vehicle. The incident occurred at around 9.20pm yesterday on Highway 3126 in the Sattahip district, near the Navy’s fuel depot. Emergency services had to use hydraulic rescue tools to extricate the 48 year old officer, Waiwit Phakdisriphaeng, from the wreckage. Photo courtesy of SiamRath As soon as the distress call was received, rescue teams from Sawang Rojanathammasathan Foundation, alongside medical personnel from the Apakorn Kiartiwong Hospital and a disaster relief unit from the Udomsak Municipality, rushed to the scene. They found the bronze Toyota Vigo overturned, with its wheels pointing skyward and the driver trapped inside. It took the rescue team more than twenty minutes to carefully free him from the severely damaged vehicle, reported KhaoSod. Photo courtesy of SiamRath Waiwit Phakdisriphaeng, a navy official stationed in the Sattahip area, was in critical condition following the accident. He was immediately rushed to the Queen Sirikit Naval Hospital for urgent medical attention. His wife, who arrived at the scene after being informed of the accident, stood by in tears as she watched the frantic rescue efforts. Photo courtesy of SiamRath Preliminary investigations suggest that Waiwit lost control of his vehicle due to high speed, which led to the fatal crash against the street light pole, resulting in the truck overturning. Officers from Plu Ta Luang Police Station have documented the scene and are conducting further inquiries into the cause of the accident to proceed with legal action. A similar event was reported in Chon Buri just a week ago. A BMW lost control, crashed into a bridge pillar, killing a passenger and critically injuring the driver. Witnesses reported excessive speed as a contributing factor. by Nattapong Westwood Top Photo courtesy of SiamRath Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand braces for intense heat with temperatures soaring by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of พยากรณ์อากาศประเทศไทย Facebook Thailand is bracing for a severe heatwave, with weather maps turning a deep red, verging on black, indicating extreme temperatures are on the way. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320365-thailand-braces-for-intense-heat-with-temperatures-soaring/

Thailand is bracing for a severe heatwave, with weather maps turning a deep red, verging on black, indicating extreme temperatures are on the way. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts this year to be hotter by approximately 1.2 degrees Celsius compared to the previous year. Some areas may experience highs of up to 44.5 degrees Celsius. The five provinces expected to be hardest hit are Mae Hong Son, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Tak, and Udon Thani. A recent release from the Thai Weather Forecasting page highlighted weather conditions for the week of February 19 to February 25, specifically at 1pm each day. The charts showed a consistent trend into the red to black zones, symbolising intense heat. During such hot conditions, the public is advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak sun hours and to stay hydrated, reported KhaoSod. While many are already feeling the increased heat, this transition period at the end of the cool season typically brings variable weather, including possible rainfall in some regions next week. In related news, a powerful weather front is currently affecting Thailand, with the TMD issuing a severe weather warning for 17 provinces. Eastern regions are expected to bear the brunt of the storm, with 30% of the area predicted to experience heavy thunderstorms, strong gusts of wind, and possible hail. The warning comes as a new high-pressure system from China covers the upper part of Vietnam and is forecast to extend its influence over the northeastern part of Thailand. Areas in the lower northeast, and the lower central region, including Bangkok and its vicinities, the east, and the upper south, are affected by a combination of southerly and southeasterly winds. This convergence is causing thunderstorms with strong winds and hail in some areas initially, followed by a temperature drop. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of พยากรณ์อากาศประเทศไทย Facebook Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-20 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Disciplinary action looming for ex-Kaeng Krachan park chief over misconduct by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The former head of Kaeng Krachan National Park in Phetchaburi, Chaiwat Limlikit-aksorn, is facing potential disciplinary action following a misconduct investigation by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320361-disciplinary-action-looming-for-ex-kaeng-krachan-park-chief-over-misconduct/