Restrictions tighten nationwide, Bangkok and 5 other provinces now “dark red” zones

Disease control restrictions are tightening nationwide. Bangkok and 5 other provinces with a high number of Covid-19 infections are now classified as “dark red” zones under the highest control to combat the spread of the coronavirus, according to the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration.

Under the new zoning measures, the dark red provinces include Bangkok, Chon Buri, Chiang Mai, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, and Samut Prakan. Those provinces have reported more than 100 Covid-19 cases per day. Regulations in those areas include:

• Events or gatherings of more than 20 people are prohibited.
• Dine-in services at restaurants and cafes are prohibited, but takeaway services until 9pm are allowed.
• Stadiums, gyms, fitness centres are closed except for sports facilities that are in open areas. Those facilities must close by 9pm.
• Shopping centres can stay open until 9pm. Arcades and entertainment activities must close until the Covid-19 situation improves.

45 provinces are classified as “red” zones,” or maximum control areas. Regulations in those areas include:

• Events and gatherings of more than 50 people are prohibited.
• Restaurants can offer dine-in services until 9pm and takeaway services are allowed until 11pm. Alcohol sales are prohibited.
• Shopping malls can stay open until 11pm.

26 provinces are classified as “orange” zone, or controlled areas. Regulations in those areas include:

• Restaurants can offer dine-in services until 11pm. Alcohol sales are prohibited.
• Shopping malls can stay open until 11pm.

Alcohol is not allowed to be sold at restaurants nationwide. There is now a nationwide order requiring face masks to be worn in public places. Most provinces have already set local orders requiring masks to be worn.

The new zoning goes into effect at midnight Saturday.