by Natthaphon Sangpolsit

    

BANGKOK (NNT) - The government has said water splashing events for this year’s Songkran Festival will be allowed at some venues, but not in open areas.

 

Government Spokesperson Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said authorities will allow splashing events under strict precautionary measures in order to prevent COVID-19 transmissions. Such events must be held at dedicated venues without allowing for the consumption of alcohol or the use of talcum powder. Water splashing in public areas is also prohibited this year.

 

Thanakorn added that Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha had expressed concern about potential COVID transmissions during the long holiday, as a large number of people are expected to travel back to their home provinces.

 

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He urged the general public, particularly senior citizens, to get vaccinated for their safety. People who plan to reunite with their families are meanwhile encouraged to adhere to personal protective measures and to take an antigen test prior to traveling.

 

Additionally, business operators at popular walking streets in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Pattaya will request that the Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) allow water splashing at their venues.

 

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Sanga Ruangwattanakul, president of the Khao San Business Association, said the proposal will include event plans and safety measures such as screening and capacity control.

 

No talcum powder??? Not a fan, but why?

 

I guess it is because you are getting close and touching people?

".....authorities will allow splashing events under strict precautionary measures in order to prevent COVID-19 transmissions."

 

Either <deleted> clueless or they're just throwing the towel in and giving up.

1 hour ago, Will B Good said:

No talcum powder??? Not a fan, but why?

 

I guess it is because you are getting close and touching people?

If it gets any hotter I might just join in!!!

2 minutes ago, vandeventer said:

If it gets any hotter I might just join in!!!

On 'free' air in a resort for the last seven weeks....haven't moved more six feet from a steady  stream of cool air......555

3 hours ago, webfact said:

Government Spokesperson Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said authorities will allow splashing events under strict precautionary measures in order to prevent COVID-19 transmissions. Such events must be held at dedicated venues without allowing for the consumption of alcohol or the use of talcum powder. Water splashing in public areas is also prohibited this year.

Safe to take a shower in my own home then... thank the lord.

Khao San roads screwed though.

20 hours ago, Will B Good said:

No talcum powder??? Not a fan, but why?

 

I guess it is because you are getting close and touching people?

Thais think it a hoot to smear this paste across car windscreens.  Then again they think wearing helmets on motor bikes is not sensible.

No alcohol in these venues?  From what I have seen over the years in Songkran in Pattaya, that goes hand-in-hand as part of the merriment. 

 

If the designated water splashing zones (let's face it, it is always just a mad water fight) are too sanitized with registration, ATK tests to enter, alcohol free, rules about conduct, intimidating security guards, etc., then I cannot see too many people bothering to attend. 

 

The fun and atmosphere just won't be there IMO. 

Business has one the day.

 

Having been here for close to 11 years I have to say I won't be participating, a simple case of been there, done it, got the T shirt, but good luck to all those that enjoy the mayhem ???? have a fun time & enjoy safely ????????