Chiang Mai Tightens Regulation on Sky Lanterns Ahead of Yi Peng Festival

[snoop1130]

 

The Thai city of Chiang Mai has amplified safety protocols surrounding the annual release of sky lanterns during the forthcoming Yi Peng Festival. Authorities have reinforced strict limitations in specific high-risk zones to ensure unhampered air traffic and public safety.

 

Deputy Governor of Chiang Mai, Siwa Thamikanont, in collaboration with local officials and the Chiang Mai Provincial Industry Office, are working closely with lantern vendors to ensure stringent adherence to safety principles. Regular inspections at key locations have been set in motion as part of the city's preparedness for this year's Yi Peng Festival.

 

"Our foremost commitment is to the safety of the public during the festival," Siwa reassured. Authorities are educating local lantern vendors on the importance of these protective measures which include designated air safety zones where the release of sky lanterns is strictly off-limits.

 

 

Particular areas, such as all subdistricts within Mueang Chiang Mai and Hang Dong and specific subdistricts in other areas like Saraphi, San Sai, and San Pa Tong, fall within these designated zones owing to their proximity to aviation routes. In areas beyond these designated zones, prior approval is required from district officials to release lanterns, a process that must start 30 days in advance.

 

A 2020 provincial ruling stipulates that lanterns can only be sent skyward on two specific days, between 7pm and 1am. Constructed from natural materials, their sizes must also meet specified standards. Unauthorized releases could result in severe penalties, including up to five years imprisonment and a fine of up to 200,000 baht. These repercussions escalate if a lantern causes a fire.

 

Chiang Mai authorities are attempting to weave a delicate balance between maintaining traditional observances and ensuring public safety and smooth air traffic. The spectacle of myriad lanterns lighting up the night sky continues to attract both local and international attention, hence necessitating additional safety measures to mitigate potential accidents this Yi Peng Festival.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-11-13

 

 

[hotchilli]

13 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Deputy Governor of Chiang Mai, Siwa Thamikanont, in collaboration with local officials and the Chiang Mai Provincial Industry Office, are working closely with lantern vendors to ensure stringent adherence to safety principles.

Best of luck with that