The annual Songkran festival will be allowed to go ahead next month, to stimulate tourism and the economy, but celebrations must comply with disease control measures, Bangkok Post reported.
Songkran is from April 13-15 this year.
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha on Wednesday signalled further easing of travel restrictions to stimulate the economy, saying the Songkran festival could be celebrated fully, but only if social distancing rules are respected.
He gave an interview at Government House on the government’s relaxation of Covid-19 measures for Songkran.
He said he expected it was likely travel curbs would be further eased, which could further boost spirits at festival time.
“The government is in the process of considering what can be allowed, whether to permit some activities or all of them. But if the virus spreads [because of it], the government might be blamed for it,” Gen Prayut said.
“So I call for your understanding. Easing restrictions is not an easy call to make since the government has to take responsibility for the whole country.”
Meanwhile, Culture Minister Itthiphol Kunplome said the ministry decided to permit Songkran activities this year, but insisted disease prevention measures must be strictly maintained.
“Chief among the measures are social distancing and capacity limits,” he said.
Organisers of Songkran celebrations, particularly those at famous venues such as Khao San Road, were allowed to decide for themselves whether to organise any activities this year, he said.
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) governor Yuthasak Supasorn said the Songkran festival “has to proceed as usual”.
Read more at Bangkok Post