Use of fireworks, lanterns, balloons to be strictly controlled during Thailand's Loy Krathong Festival

BANGKOK, November 16 (TNA) - As people from all walks of life in Thailand, including international visitors, are welcome to celebrate the Loy Krathong Festival 2018 next week, authorities will strictly control the use of fireworks, crackers, lanterns and floating lanterns, as well as balloons and other mischievous materials for the sake of public safety. Interior Minister General Anupong Paochinda told journalists on November 15 that he has instructed governors of Thai provinces across the country to take best care of people in their respective areas during this year's Loy Krathong Festival by, among others, strictly controlling the use of all the materials at risk. Besides, the provincial governors have been ordered to have all piers, boats and water sources in their areas thoroughly checked to ensure their proper functions and all entertainment venues and terminals of public transport to be closely watched out. The minister stated that his instruction, aimed to prevent or limit untoward incidents, casualties and damages to public assets, was in response to an earlier order issued by Thai Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-ocha, in his capacity as the head of the Thai-army led National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO). "The use of fireworks, crackers, lanterns and floating lanterns, as well as balloons and other mischievous materials will be allowed during the upcoming Loy Krathong Festival only in areas approved by authorities of each district", said the interior minister. According to the minister, authorities in all Thai areas are assigned to announce or disseminate the official order through all channels, including community leaders, local media and public relations (PR) systems, in which an official warning on legal punishment of up to a 60,000 baht-fine and a maximum three-year jail term against each violator of the order are also required to be included. Although Thailand's Loy Krathong Day 2018 falls on November 22, the tightened measures will be implemented during November 21-23, considered as this year's Loy Krathong Festival when a large number of Thai people and foreign visitors travel to celebrate the annual festivity to be organized in areas and tourist destinations nationwide. (TNA)