Covid or no Covid, October 1 re-opening going ahead – Tourism Minister

There will be no rowing back on the planned October 1 re-opening of Bangkok, Chon Buri, Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and Chiang Mai, despite the Covid-19 crisis. So says Tourism and Sports Minister, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, confirming that the government is sticking to the re-opening date previously announced by the PM. According to a Bangkok Post report, the minister has also stated that another 21 provinces will re-open on October 15.

Phiphat has acknowledged the challenges posed by the ongoing Covid-19 crisis, but has confidence in the ministry’s preparations for re-opening. In responding to questions about the high case rate of 200+ daily infections on the southern island of Phuket, the minister says these infections are being detected through active case finding in communities such as migrant workers.

Meanwhile, in the central province of Phetchaburi, deputy governor Natthawut Phetpromsorn says they’re ready for an October 1 re-opening. He says strict disease prevention measures are in place, with bubble and seal policies implemented at factories and markets. The province has seen a decline in infections and Natthawut is confident this means the October 1 re-opening can go ahead as planned. He adds that tourist destinations such as the district of Cha-am are Covid-free and tourists can feel safe in planning their trips.

According to the Bangkok Post report, Phetchakit Thaensawat from the provincial health office says 54% of the target groups, including those over the age of 60, pregnant women, and people with underlying conditions, have been inoculated. He adds that the rate will increase to 70% – when they get more vaccines.

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SOURCE: Bangkok Post