Bangkok ready for Loy Krathong tomorrow

BANGKOK, Nov 13 (TNA) –Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, is preparing for its annual Loy Krathong festival, while the public is urged to avoid entertainment and encouraged to use “krathong”, or floating baskets, made of natural materials rather than foam to protect the environment. Deputy Bangkok Governor Jakkapan Pieungam said this year’s Loy Krathong Day falls on Nov 14, and traditional events will still be organized as usual across the capital. However, the public is urged to refrain from any entertainment activities to mourn the recent passing of His Majesty late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The main event hosted by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports’ Tourism Authority of Thailand will take place at Santi Chai Prakan Park, where people can enjoy a scenic view of the Chao Praya River, in the capital from 4pm to midnight. Loy Krathong is considered one of the most important days for Thai citizens who will celebrate the festival by floating decorated baskets, or so-called “krathongs”, to pay respect to river goddess. Nonetheless, the use of krathongs, particularly those made of foam, is blamed for causing water pollution. Mr Jakkapan said officials collected a total of 825,614 krathongs from waterways last year, most of which, or 754,587 krathongs, were made of natural materials, while the rest was made of polystyrene foam, widely known as Styrofoam. He expects to see fewer polystyrene foam krathongs this year thanks to the launch of the “anti-foam krathongs” campaign. (TNA)