Health Ministry to propose “green zones” where bars, nightlife could re-open

Bars and entertainment venues are demanding the right to re-open for business, with reports the Public Health Ministry could allow this in some provinces it would designate as “green zones”. The Bangkok Post reports that owners of nightlife venues will meet with Supoj Malaniyom from the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration today.

According to Khathawut Thongthai from the Association of Entertainment Professionals, business owners are grateful for the relief measures and state aid received during the pandemic, but he points out that such measures are not sustainable and it’s now time to move on.

“With daily Covid-19 infections having declined and the national vaccination campaign extended to cover all age groups, it is now time to ease curbs on nightspots and allow the industry to get back on its feet.”

Nightlife operators have been piling the pressure on for some time now, originally calling for businesses in tourist provinces – the so-called “blue zones” – to be allowed to re-open from June 1, following the cancellation of Test & Go on May 1.

According to the Bangkok Post report, the Public Health Ministry plans to review this zoning, with the intention of classifying some provinces as “green zones”. The country is currently divided into 12 blue zones and 65 yellow (high surveillance) zones.

Reports suggest that the government may allow nightlife venues in the new green zones to re-open, with a proposal expected to go to the CCSA tomorrow.

SOURCE: Bangkok Post