Bangkok bans airborne lanterns for Loy Krathong

– Thailand news selected by Gazette editors for Phuket’s international community

PHUKET: The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has banned airborne lanterns for the upcoming Loy Krathong festival – on November 6 – in areas around the capital.

The ban will cover areas such as the Grand Palace and its vicinity, historical venues, tall buildings, airports, and important temples around the capital. It will be in effect for 24 hours.

The move came after city officials met yesterday. The BMA will also set up an ad-hoc centre, beneath the Rama VIII Bridge, to assist people who want to float lantern on rivers, canals and ponds.

City officials have inspected all piers along the Chao Phraya River and various canals and declared 262 of them safe for use during the festival, when people like to pay homage to the river spirit. Some 21 piers were declared unsuitable and will be closed, with nearby residents informed of this.

All of Bangkok’s 50 districts will be placed on special alert in order to effectively deal with possible incidents along the river and canals.

As for fireworks, Wallop Suwandee, chairman of BMA advisers, said only six purveyors hold legal licences to sell fireworks in the capital and those without a licence would not be allowed to sell fireworks.

The Interior Ministry will also ensure festival areas are free of sales of alcohol.

— Phuket Gazette Editors