Thailand-
The following is our weekly feature in which we ask our readers a news topical question and get their insight and opinions. We then share their feedback a week later and pick a variety of diverse and interesting responses.
This week we are going to ask you:
Do you think the Thai government should consider making mandatory new restrictions or measures for Songkran next week to protect against Covid-19?
This question follows concerns from doctors and government officials around new cases of Covid-19 that have stemmed primarily from entertainment venues in Bangkok, causing concern ahead of Songkran. Keep in mind, however, the country has had dozens of cases a day for months, primarily from markets, migrant camps, Immigration detention centers, some restaurants, house parties, and other events and only now, with about the same number of cases but a holiday approaching are some suggesting additional restrictions or measures. To be fair, Songkran is also the biggest holiday in Thailand and the single mass movement period of the year.
The Thai Government, led by the Center for Covid-19 Situation Administration, previously banned “fun” activities that draw large crowds like concerts, water fights, non-religious parades, foam parties, etc. in an attempt to control Covid-19 this year. Only traditional activities, such as wearing traditional Thai outfits, giving respect to elders, and religious activities are permitted this year. Travel is also permitted. That being said, many people seem to think based on social media comments that outside of major tourism areas people will still throw water or party in provinces and rural areas.
However, some medical experts are questioning new possible restrictions.
Thai Government officials stated earlier today that rumors about a renewed curfew during Songkran were false and was not being considered, although it is possible other things may be reviewed, especially around entertainment venues like bars and nightclubs. Critics of further restrictions, however, state that if authorities close or highly restrict these places people will simply party at their homes or private locations with no social distancing and allowing them to go to places with control measures and the watchful eye of authorities would be better. Critics also state that since so many people go to the rural provinces during Songkran to see family that cracking down on places like Bangkok or Pattaya would only hurt business owners and workers and domestic tourism.
Anyways, we want to know what you think. Should there be additional measures, restrictions, or rules? How would they be enforced? What should the measures be? Keep in mind, as some comments say, simply “canceling” the whole thing is nearly impossible as it is basically Thailand’s Christmas or Thanksgiving and their biggest and longest holiday yearly. It was only canceled last year due to draconian restrictions like nearly every business closed except essential ones, road checkpoints, domestic travel shutdown, alcohol sales banned (a very unpopular decision), fear of the virus which has subsided with many people, a nighttime curfew, etc. Most of this is unfeasible and won’t happen this year. So, what can they do? And, if they choose to shut business or do a short “restriction period” during the festival, should they find a way to compensate business owners and employees, which would be millions of people, over what is normally one of, if not the, busiest weeks of the year? It’s clearly not an easy decision.
Let us know in comments, on our social media, or mail us at Pattayanewseditor@gmail.com. we look forward to hearing from you and will publish the results next week.
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