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Procession brawl in Chiang Mai leads to hefty 75,000 baht fines by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of chiangmainews Chaos erupted during a traditional procession in Chom Thong, Chiang Mai, when a violent brawl broke out among participants, undeterred by the potential for a hefty fine of 75,000 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325051-procession-brawl-in-chiang-mai-leads-to-hefty-75000-baht-fines/

Chaos erupted during a traditional procession in Chom Thong, Chiang Mai, when a violent brawl broke out among participants, undeterred by the potential for a hefty fine of 75,000 baht. The incident took place yesterday, April 15, as 19 groups paraded the sacred Bo tree supports into Wat Phra That Si Chom Thong amid loud music and a large crowd. The clash is believed to have started over a simple misstep during a dance, leading to a chase across the street and causing alarm among onlookers. Before the procession, community youth groups and the Chom Thong Subdistrict Municipality held a meeting to discuss the event’s organisation and emphasise the importance of maintaining peace. The resolution set hefty penalties for any form of violence, with fines of 75,000 baht (US$2,000) and the promise of a 5,000 baht (US$135) reward for video evidence submitted after case closure. Additionally, all musical bands were required to install CCTV for security purposes. Warning signs were also displayed. “If you don’t have money, don’t act tough!! No weapons allowed or face a 75,000 baht fine breaking down the allocation of the fine among various stakeholders, including the videographers of any incident.” The altercation disrupted the otherwise festive atmosphere of the procession, which resumed shortly after the incident with no reported injuries, reported KhaoSod. In related news, residents in a Chon Buri community acted swiftly to detain a heavily intoxicated man who, after becoming agitated during a Songkran celebration, returned home to fetch a gun and threaten his companions. The incident, which took place on April 13 at around 5.30pm, saw local law enforcement led by Police Colonel Navin Sinthurat, the superintendent of Bang Lamung Police Station, along with his deputies, Police Lieutenant Colonel Suphawat Lattapreecha and Police Lieutenant Colonel Suchat Dusadee, responding to a radio centre alert during a routine patrol for the festive period. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of chiangmainews Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai lottery fever spikes as lucky numbers circulate ahead of April draw by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod The excitement is palpable as the Thai lottery draw for April 16, approaches, with lottery enthusiasts eagerly seeking out lucky numbers in anticipation of becoming the next millionaire. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325050-thai-lottery-fever-spikes-as-lucky-numbers-circulate-ahead-of-april-draw/

The excitement is palpable as the Thai lottery draw for April 16, approaches, with lottery enthusiasts eagerly seeking out lucky numbers in anticipation of becoming the next millionaire. The draw, set to take place at the Government Lottery Office in Nonthaburi, has sparked a frenzy among the public, with special attention to numbers associated with various auspicious signs and popular figures. One such revered source is Pu Khaew at Pu Khaew Khamnod, whose devotees believe in the mystical power of numbers associated with him. In a recently held event, a coin featuring the likeness of Pu Sri Suttho and Mae Ya Sri Prathumma was revealed, enchanting attendees with numbers 17 and 71 hidden within the Naga scales design. The Chinese calendar, too, has its share of followers who keenly inspect it for hints of winning numbers. With the latest edition highlighting numbers 387, 23, 252, 327, and 692, lottery enthusiasts are left speculating which of these could turn their fortunes. An accident involving a container truck in Pak Chong has sparked a different kind of interest, as superstitious individuals rush to purchase lottery tickets with numbers 67-7795 and 67-1493, the truck’s registration numbers, hoping for a stroke of luck. In Nakorn Pathom, worshippers at Luang Phor Somwang’s shrine fervently seek blessings and lucky numbers, with the recent Seamsi shaking revealing favored numbers 25, 19, and 22. A lucky escape from a king cobra encounter in a local’s bedroom has turned into an opportunity for gamblers, who have derived numbers 514, 415, 154, 541, 451, and 145 from the house number where the snake was found. Lucky numbers Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s vehicle registration number, กล 9 from Nakhon Si Thammarat, has also caught the public’s eye as a potential source of good luck, while Luang Phor Hamjon of Wat Mai Samakkhi in Phetchabun has inspired the numbers 523 after his followers reported winning prizes following their visits. Devotees of Thao Wessuwan, from as far as Ranong, seek blessings in Nakhon Pathom, resulting in numbers 11, 13, and 17, while the revered Luang Pu Heng in the northeast has generated excitement with number 391 from a ceremonial candle. A 21 year old jewellery store owner from Ang Thong has sparked interest with her dance offerings to Thao Wessuwan, resulting in numbers 831 and 59. In the north, Chiang Mai’s lottery numbers are particularly sought after this season, with predictions including 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 413, 414, 415, 567, and 386 among others. The numbers complement the numerology provided by Ploy Pailin, who advises on numbers based on astrological readings, suggesting pairs like 13, 58, 59, 10, and 09 for the upcoming draw. In Phayao, a giant candle at a sacred water tank has given lottery players numbers 618, 108, and 10 to consider for their next wager, while the Wat Sawang Arom ceremony in Nakhon Pathom has yielded numbers 246 and 134. Lastly, a homeowner’s chance encounter with geckos has led to the number 953, and a water tank at the hermitage of a sage has revealed numbers 4, 5, 7, 3, 6, and 8, all adding to the rich tapestry of potential lottery-winning numbers, reported KhaoSod. As the draw date looms, hope and superstition blend into a unique cultural phenomenon, with countless individuals dreaming of turning their luck into fortune with the right combination of numbers. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Minivan passengers pass out from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning By Peter Roche PHOTO: Thai Rath Five out of six people travelling in a passenger minivan fell ill and lost consciousness due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325049-minivan-passengers-pass-out-from-suspected-carbon-monoxide-poisoning/

Five out of six people travelling in a passenger minivan fell ill and lost consciousness due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. Nation Thailand reports that on Sunday, April 14, the minivan was travelling between the north-eastern provinces of Mukdanah and Yasothon when 5 passengers passed out in their seats. By the time the van arrived at its final destination of Yasothon bus terminal, at around 3.45 pm, some passengers were vomiting. It’s understood a number of motorbike taxis initially offered the passengers their services, but when they declined due to their ill health, the taxi drivers called the emergency services. By Peter Roche PHOTO: Thai Rath Full story: PhuketGO 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Four arrested in Phuket with over 12,000 methamphetamine pills seized by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Thalang Police Four individuals have been apprehended by Thalang Police in Phuket on charges related to drugs, with over 12,000 methamphetamine pills, locally known as ya bah, confiscated in the process. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325048-four-arrested-in-phuket-with-over-12000-methamphetamine-pills-seized/

Four individuals have been apprehended by Thalang Police in Phuket on charges related to drugs, with over 12,000 methamphetamine pills, locally known as ya bah, confiscated in the process. The arrests were carried out across three distinct operations yesterday. Among those apprehended was Duean Jarachit, a 42 year old resident of Moo 1, Mai Khao. She was taken into custody on a road in Baan Yamu, Moo 7, Pa Khlok, and discovered in possession of 398 ya bah pills. Alongside the drugs, her mobile phone was also seized by the officers. Next to be arrested was Samart Mankarn, a 50 year old from Ao Luek, Krabi. He was apprehended in front of a Moo 8, Thepkrasattri residence, with 360 ya bah pills and two grammes of crystal meth in his possession. Finally, 48 year old Suchart ‘Sak’ Roengsamut, and 32 year old Teeraphon ‘Rusdeen’ Laolang, were taken into custody following a search of Suchart’s Moo 9, Thepkrasattri residence and then Teeraphon’s house in Moo 8, Thepkrasattri. These searches led to the seizure of 11,810 ya bah pills. In addition, a pack of plastic bags and two mobile phones were seized as evidence, reported The Phuket News. The four individuals were subsequently transported to Thalang Police Station, where they were officially charged with the illegal possession of a Category 1 narcotic with intent to sell. In related news, Bangkok police have successfully dismantled a major drug operation following the arrest of two individuals caught with an extensive haul of methamphetamine pills and a considerable sum of cash. The operation, which took place late at night in the capital, led to the seizure of 190,000 methamphetamine pills, approximately 400 grams of ketamine, and over 1.3 million baht (US$ 36,000) in cash and bank account assets. The arrests were made in two separate locations in Bangkok. The first individual, 24 year old Jirayu, was apprehended in the Sasiwimon 2 Village in the Bang Khae district, while the second, 24 year old Thanapol, was detained in the parking area of an apartment complex in Nong Khaem district. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Thalang Police Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chinese firms eye EV supply chain in Thailand’s Smart Park by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of JUICE, Unsplash Chinese companies have shown keen interest in the EV supply chain and energy sectors of the Smart Park Industrial Estate, situated in Rayong, Thailand. This estate is due to open by the end of the current year, according to the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325045-chinese-firms-eye-ev-supply-chain-in-thailand’s-smart-park/

Chinese companies have shown keen interest in the EV supply chain and energy sectors of the Smart Park Industrial Estate, situated in Rayong, Thailand. This estate is due to open by the end of the current year, according to the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT). The companies aim to establish factories manufacturing EV components to cater to the burgeoning Thai EV market. They also have plans to venture into energy development, revealed Veeris Ammarapala, the governor of IEAT. “We have taken this group of investors to visit Smart Park,” he stated. “They are interested in leasing large plots of land and are gathering data to conduct feasibility studies on their new businesses.” Smart Park gives particular importance to the digital sector, with digital technology playing a crucial role in supporting several businesses, including EV assembly. The Thai government offers incentive packages to global EV manufacturers to invest in Thailand, with the broader objective of establishing Thailand as a regional hub for EV production. As per an EV roadmap for the period between 2022 and 2030, authorities intend for battery EVs to constitute 30% of total car manufacturing by 2030. This includes the production of 725,000 zero-emission cars, 675,000 electric motorcycles, and 34,000 electric buses and trucks. Amidst these developments, the IEAT plans to further encourage investment at Smart Park by offering a one-year waiver on land rental costs and an exemption on fees for operating facilities at the industrial estate for the same duration. With a focus on targeted industries and supporting a drive towards carbon neutrality, Smart Park is situated in the Map Ta Phut area, covering 1,383 rai of land. The estate also supports the aviation and logistics, medical devices, and robotics sectors, in addition to the digital sector. Smart Park’s construction is currently 82% complete. “We expect Smart Park to create 7,459 jobs and generate 1.3 billion baht (US$ 35 million) a year for the economy,” said Veeris, reported Bangkok Post. In a bid to combat global warming, the IEAT recently announced its partnership with six Thai and Japanese companies. The collaboration will involve a joint study on hydrogen fuel at the Map Ta Phut and Smart Park industrial estates. This project aligns with Thailand’s carbon neutrality target and supports investors interested in using clean-energy-based electricity and transport. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of JUICE, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai authorities plan for potential energy cost surge amid Israel-Iran conflict by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of engin akyurt, Unsplash Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce has issued directives to state bodies to devise strategies to mitigate potential surges in energy costs in the event of an escalation in the Israel-Iran conflict. Fuull story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325042-thai-authorities-plan-for-potential-energy-cost-surge-amid-israel-iran-conflict/

Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce has issued directives to state bodies to devise strategies to mitigate potential surges in energy costs in the event of an escalation in the Israel-Iran conflict. The directive follows Iran’s missile and drone assault on Israel, a retaliatory move against Israel’s alleged attack on Iran’s consulate in Damascus earlier this month. This marked the first direct attack by Iran on Israel in a longstanding shadow conflict, typically characterised by Iran launching assaults on Israel via terror proxies. In response to the escalating situation, Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced that he had tasked the ministry, the International Trade Promotion Department, the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, and foreign commerce diplomats with assessing potential impacts on Thai trade. Phumtham also called for diligent monitoring of activities in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route for oil and natural gas exports for numerous Middle Eastern nations, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Qatar, and Kuwait. The strait sees a daily traffic of around 21 million barrels of oil. Should the conflict intensify to the point of disrupting this key trade route, the implications could be severe. The disruption could significantly hinder oil procurement, leading to hikes in transport costs and global energy prices. Phumtham stressed the need for state bodies to examine the potential negative outcomes of such scenarios and devise strategies to mitigate impacts on Thailand and its export sector. The National Economic and Social Development Council previously expressed concerns that the Israel-Hamas conflict could impact the Thai economy via fuel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices should the situation worsen. The assessment indicated that the country’s capacity to stabilise fuel prices seems to be diminishing, while LPG prices may continue to rise given the rapid depletion of the oil fuel fund, reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of engin akyurt, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Krabi’s Phi Phi islands tackle severe freshwater shortage by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Ao Nang OrBortor The Phi Phi Islands, a prominent tourist attraction in Krabi, are grappling with a severe shortage of freshwater. The local authorities are exploring potential solutions, with two options under consideration – a pipeline bringing water from the mainland or the production of freshwater from the sea, according to the Ao Nang Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1324864-phi-phi-islands-tackle-critical-water-shortage/?do=findComment&comment=18846348

Krabi’s Phi Phi islands tackle severe freshwater shortage by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Ao Nang OrBortor The Phi Phi Islands, a prominent tourist attraction in Krabi, are grappling with a severe shortage of freshwater. The local authorities are exploring potential solutions, with two options under consideration – a pipeline bringing water from the mainland or the production of freshwater from the sea, according to the Ao Nang Tambon Administration Organisation (OrBorTor). Phankham Kittitorakul, President of Ao Nang OrBorTor, highlighted the recurring lack of tap water during the dry season. This period coincides with the tourist high season, exacerbating the situation over the past few years. To address this, Ao Nang OrBorTor has received funding to investigate these two possible solutions. The urgency of the situation is underscored by the fact that Water Hill Co Ltd, a private company providing tap water to households, businesses, restaurants, hotels, and resorts on the Phi Phi Islands, is on the verge of exhausting its water reserve. The company anticipates that its capacity to provide water to customers will cease by tomorrow. Following this, it will distribute water for two hours a day until its reserve is replenished by rainfall or completely depleted, necessitating further adaptations. Adding to the crisis, the artesian well and water reserve of Ao Nang OrBorTor, which supplies raw water to private companies for tap water production, are also depleted. Consequently, water prices have skyrocketed to 200 baht (US$5.4) per cubic metre. This situation is expected to hit households and small businesses that lack private artesian wells the hardest. However, larger hotels, resorts, and businesses on the islands appear to be unaffected by the water shortage, as they possess their artesian wells. These wells are expected to provide sufficient tap water to visitors. The water shortages in Krabi are escalating, according to Ittichai Tanbutr, Vice President of the Pattana Krabi (Krabi Development) group. He disclosed that the Provincial Waterworks Authority’s office in the province has been compelled to reduce water pressure and limit water distribution in many areas since April 11, reported The Phuket News. Ittichai urged the government to systematically and sustainably address the water scarcity problem. The Phi Phi islands, comprising Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Lay, and several smaller islets, are amongst the province’s most frequented tourist destinations. Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s CPPD calls for collective action against youth vaping by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Matichon A plea has been made by the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) for collective action to safeguard Thai youngsters from the adverse health effects of e-cigarettes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325041-thailand’s-cppd-calls-for-collective-action-against-youth-vaping/

A plea has been made by the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) for collective action to safeguard Thai youngsters from the adverse health effects of e-cigarettes. Police Major General Wittaya Sriprasert, CPPD chief, has stressed the need for educators, school personnel, parents, and relatives of young children to collaborate in imparting knowledge about the health hazards linked with vaping. In addition, he emphasised the necessity for young people to understand the legal repercussions of infringing laws that ban the sale and possession of such devices in Thailand. Reflecting on CPPD data, he mentioned that the incidence of illegal sales and possession of e-cigarettes and their cartridges has seen an upward trend in recent times. In 2022, law enforcement officers confiscated vapes and cartridges to the tune of two million baht from 31 vendors. In the past year, they seized products worth 10.14 million baht (US$ 280,000) from 25 vendors. As of this month, CPPD officials have seized merchandise amounting to 2.7 million baht (US$ 73,000) in 42 cases. Forty two year old Khin and 25 year old Hhyo, both Myanmar nationals, were apprehended recently, on April 13, for vending vapes and cartridges along Sukhumvit Road in Watthana district. A significant amount of e-cigarettes were found in their possession. The CPPD chief disclosed that a study has been conducted to discern the reasons behind the rapid popularity of e-cigarettes among Thai youths, despite their illegality under Thai law. The study revealed that most consumers were enticed by the appealing designs of the devices and the extensive range of flavours and varieties available. He noted that online marketing strategies and other advertisement methods employed by e-cigarette manufacturers and traders to attract young people have contributed to the surge in the popularity of vapes. Furthermore, the study discovered that because e-cigarettes cost less than traditional cigarettes and can be used repeatedly, many perceived them as providing good value for money, reported Bangkok Post. However, he concluded that the level of awareness among Thai youths about the real health impact of e-cigarette use remains relatively low. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Matichon Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Lone thief snatches 210,000 baht gold necklace in a daring mall heist by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A bold theft occurred yesterday at 7pm when a lone robber seized a 5-baht weight gold necklace valued at over 210,000 baht from the Aurora gold shop located inside a shopping mall in Bang Kaeo, Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325039-lone-thief-snatches-210000-baht-gold-necklace-in-a-daring-mall-heist/

A bold theft occurred yesterday at 7pm when a lone robber seized a 5-baht weight gold necklace valued at over 210,000 baht from the Aurora gold shop located inside a shopping mall in Bang Kaeo, Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan Province. The thief, under the guise of examining the jewellery, snatched the necklace and fled the scene, leaving the shop staff and police in shock. At the scene on the second floor of the shopping mall, police cordoned off the vicinity of the Aurora gold shop and promptly began their investigation. Surveillance footage revealed the suspect, a tall man with dark, reddish skin, entering the shop at 6.32pm, wearing a floral shirt, white shorts, and a face mask. He appeared to have planned the heist meticulously, carrying a black bag as he approached the employees under the pretence of interest in the gold necklace. The staff, unsuspecting of the impending crime, showcased four necklaces from the display, but as one of the employees reached for a mirror at the suspect’s request, he seized the opportunity to grab a necklace and made a swift escape. The stolen item, weighing 5 bahts, is approximately 210,000 baht (US$ 5,700) in value. Shocked by the sudden turn of events, the employees recounted that the man did not specify the type of necklace he wanted, prompting them to present four different styles. The police are now closely examining the crime scene and reviewing additional CCTV footage from the surrounding area to track the escape route taken by the perpetrator. In related news, in a brazen daylight heist, a young man robbed a gold shop in Kamphaeng Phet Province, making off with two baht-weight gold necklaces valued at 74,300 baht (US$2,000). The robbery took place at approximately 3.30pm on March 1, when the suspect, feigning a regular purchase, snatched the jewellery and fled on a motorcycle. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Post-Songkran travel surge leads to heavy traffic into Bangkok by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of matichon Traffic swelled on the roads heading towards Bangkok as the long holiday season drew to a close, with authorities opening additional lanes to manage the influx. Yesterday, citizens began returning to the capital in droves after celebrating the Songkran festival. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325038-post-songkran-travel-surge-leads-to-heavy-traffic-into-bangkok/

Traffic swelled on the roads heading towards Bangkok as the long holiday season drew to a close, with authorities opening additional lanes to manage the influx. Yesterday, citizens began returning to the capital in droves after celebrating the Songkran festival. The Mittraphap Road, a major thoroughfare connecting the northeastern region of Thailand to Bangkok, experienced significant congestion, particularly at the 39-kilometre mark descending from Khao Khlang Dong in Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. Authorities from Nakhon Ratchasima’s Highway Police implemented special traffic measures extending from Pak Chong to Saraburi Province to help ease the gridlock. Specifically, between Muak Lek District and Kaeng Khoi District, they opened extra lanes from the 30-kilometre mark in Muak Lek to the 17-kilometre mark in Thap Kwang, Kaeng Khoi. These measures facilitated the movement of vehicles into Saraburi city centre, with every lane packed with traffic. In Saraburi Province, both the Highway Police and the Department of Highways worked tirelessly to provide convenience for those travelling back to Bangkok. On Phahonyothin Road, which leads into the capital, the flow of vehicles was relatively smooth, with traffic maintaining speeds of around 60 kilometres per hour around the 99-kilometre mark in Mueang Saraburi District. However, by 9pm, due to the heavy volume of traffic, authorities took the extraordinary step of opening eight inbound lanes towards Bangkok from the 99-kilometre mark to the 71-kilometre mark in Wang Noi District, Ayutthaya Province, reported KhaoSod. Depending on the volume of vehicles, this expanded passage could extend to the 54-kilometre mark in Bang Pa-in District, Ayutthaya Province. Motorists heading to Saraburi were advised to use parallel routes to avoid delays. In related news, Phuket International Airport is once again reminding those scheduled to fly out of the island to factor in additional travel time to reach the airport. This advice, which was initially issued for the new year period, has been reiterated due to persistent heavy traffic on the island’s main roads. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of matichon Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fisheries reform: Bangkok risks backtracking on exploitation by Steve Suwannarat Under pressure from local businessmen, Parliament wants to relax stringent regulations on the protection of the sea and working conditions on fishing vessels, which are often linked to human trafficking. The current law had been passed in 2015 under pressure from the European Union, which threatened a ban on local fish products. But now, with industrial production in crisis, Thailand hopes to catch up by 'liberalising' the sector. Bangkok (AsiaNews) - The Thai parliament is preparing to examine several bills that would lead to a substantial revision of the laws governing the fishing industry. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325037-fisheries-reform-bangkok-risks-backtracking-on-exploitation/

Under pressure from local businessmen, Parliament wants to relax stringent regulations on the protection of the sea and working conditions on fishing vessels, which are often linked to human trafficking. The current law had been passed in 2015 under pressure from the European Union, which threatened a ban on local fish products. But now, with industrial production in crisis, Thailand hopes to catch up by 'liberalising' the sector. Bangkok (AsiaNews) - The Thai parliament is preparing to examine several bills that would lead to a substantial revision of the laws governing the fishing industry. The fear of many is that the result could set the employment situation back by years in a sector where conditions of exploitation and violence against labour, especially foreign labour, have been denounced with more frequency and determination. In this case, the fallout on the country's image, which has long been under scrutiny, could also be substantial. The changes so far proposed to the 2015 law - despite the differences expressed by the various parties - tend to overcome a situation considered too restrictive and unfavourable to entrepreneurs and ship owners. In fact, there would be the liberalisation of destructive fishing tools such as bottom trawls, the return of the transhipment of fish between offshore vessels, wider meshes regarding the capture of protected marine species and, finally, a reduction in the penalties currently provided for illegal or irregular fishing. For the latter, fines could be reduced by as much as 98%, while prison sentences would be abolished altogether. by Steve Suwannarat Full story: ASIA NEWS 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tak’s disposal pits scrutinised ahead of cadmium tailings relocation by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Tak Provincial Industry Office The disposal pits in Tak are under tight scrutiny by the Industry Ministry and local agencies, as they prepare for the relocation of cadmium tailings from Samut Sakhon. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325036-tak’s-disposal-pits-scrutinised-ahead-of-cadmium-tailings-relocation/

The disposal pits in Tak are under tight scrutiny by the Industry Ministry and local agencies, as they prepare for the relocation of cadmium tailings from Samut Sakhon. The permanent secretary for industry, Nattapol Rangsitpol, confirmed he had discussions with Tak governor Somchai Kitcharoenrungroj about the readiness of the province to handle the relocation. In collaboration with several local agencies, the Industry Ministry is ensuring the robustness of disposal pits. This includes inspecting the cement structure, drainage system, and machinery, as required by an environmental impact assessment. The safety of the surrounding environment will also be evaluated before the cadmium tailings are moved into the pits. The Public Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Act’s Section 29 has been invoked by the province to limit access within a 100-metre radius of the seven disposal pit sites and warehouses for the next 90 days. Nattapol is also collaborating with the Bangkok governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, to examine factories suspected of involvement throughout the capital. Similar inspections will be carried out in various provinces with the assistance of the Industrial Works Department and provincial industry offices. So far, no additional cadmium tailings have been reported, with the current total remaining at 12,535 tonnes. The burial site for the tailings is less than one kilometre away from the Ping River, in tambon Nong Bua Tai of Mueang district. More than 1,000 households are located nearby, and many residents have expressed concerns about the potential health and environmental impacts of relocating the tailings to their area. The Move Forward Party MP for Tak, Karit Pannaim, relayed the villagers’ request for health checks to be conducted on all individuals in nearby communities before the relocation, reported Bangkok Post. Yesterday, the Provincial Waterworks Authority assured that water samples from Tak, Samut Sakhon, and Chon Buri were free from cadmium contamination and safe for use. The authority has increased its water quality surveillance, regularly testing water supplies from its 234 branches. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Tak Provincial Industry Office Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chiang Mai battles extensive forest fires and severe air pollution by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of bangkokbiznews Chiang Mai, a city in the northern region of Thailand, is currently combating an alarming number of forest fires, with over 15 fires reported, some of which have been persisting for three days. As per the local authorities, 17 out of 153 hotspots were detected in the city yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325035-chiang-mai-battles-extensive-forest-fires-and-severe-air-pollution/