City Hall has introduced strict measures, including securing a permit for holding large parties, to control the spread of Covid-19 during the Songkran festival next month.

Religious events typically associated with the festival such as rod nam dam hua (the seeking of blessings from the elderly) are exempt. Organisers are required to obtain permission from the district office if participants exceed 300 people, according to Bangkok governor Aswin Kwanmuang. For other celebratory events such as banquets and fairs, a permit must be obtained from a district office if there are more than 100 people attending.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) also wants such events held in open, well-ventilated areas rather than in an air-conditioned environment.

No celebrations, including water splashing activities, concerts and foam parties, are to be held where many people would be crowded in one place, which increases the chance of disease spreading.

Pol Gen Aswin said the Bangkok disease control committee on March 19 approved the measures to contain Covid-19 transmission during the Songkran holiday from April 10-15.

The government has designated April 12 as a special holiday, making the Songkran festival an extended long break from April 10 to 15 to stimulate local tourism. Violations of the regulations under the health-control emergency degree are punishable by up to two years in prison, a maximum fine of 40,000 baht or both.

Khao San Road, one of the most popular Songkran water splashing locations in Bangkok, may also be closed during the festival, Culture Minister Itthiphol Kunplome said last week. Only traditional activities will be allowed including sprinkling Buddha images and paying respects to senior people.

 

 

Bangkok Post