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THAI.NEWS - Thailand Breaking News

Jetsada Kengrungruangchai’s Hazardous Cadmium Crisis: A Toxic Tale in Thailand’s Heartlands

In a captivating turn of events that reads like a thriller novel, Jetsada Kengrungruangchai, the enigmatic director of J&B Metal Co, found himself in a rather precarious situation. The scene unfolded on a seemingly ordinary Thursday, within the stark walls of the police Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division, where Jetsada, with a stern expression, was flanked by authorities and flashing cameras. The reason? A whopping 13,800 tonnes of cadmium tailings, a substance as dangerous as it sounds, discovered sprawled across various locations in Thailand, from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the industrial heartlands of Samut Sakhon, and even the picturesque shores of Chon Buri. This hazardous adventure began when J&B Metal, under Jetsada’s direction, ventured into the murky waters of hazardous waste management, purchasing cadmium waste from a landfill nestled in the verdant province of Tak. Cadmium, known for its starring role in the manufacture of rechargeable…

Skytrax’s Top Airports of 2023: From Changi’s Crown to Suvarnabhumi’s Ascent

In the grand theatre of air travel, where the world’s airports are the magnificent stages on which the drama of international voyages unfolds, the plot thickens year by year as these transportation hubs vie for the coveted titles bestowed by Skytrax. The year 2022 saw Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar, basking in the limelight, proudly holding the title of the crown jewel in the realm of airports. Yet, as with any great drama, the throne was destined for a new monarch. The following year, the crown passed to Singapore’s Changi Airport, a haven of tranquility and innovation, proving yet again that in the world of aviation, fortunes can shift as swiftly as the winds. As we peel back the curtain on Skytrax’s prestigious list for this year, we encounter a pantheon of high-flying sanctuaries that transcend the mundane to offer something magical. Let’s embark on a journey through these…

Pimphattra’s Quest Against Cadmium Crisis: Unveiling a Hazardous Legacy in Tak and Samut Sakhon

Imagine stumbling upon a modern-day treasure hunt, but instead of gold or jewels, the bounty is 13,000 tonnes of cadmium waste—far from glamorous, yet intriguingly hazardous. This tale begins in the serene district of Muang in Tak, where a seemingly dormant site, previously operated by the enigmatic Bound and Beyond Plc, has sparked an environmental thriller that could rival any blockbuster movie. The company, having ceased operations years ago, left behind a legacy not many would envy—a vast quantity of cadmium waste, long buried and forgotten, until now. Our story unfolds with officials unraveling this grim treasure map, only to discover that the stash had been craftily relocated. The journey to trace the waste led them to an unsuspecting factory in the bustling province of Samut Sakhon, housing a mere fraction of the loot—2,500 tonnes of cadmium. This factory, akin to a magician in a circus, had performed a disappearing…

Lawan Sangsanit Tackles Estate Tax Loopholes in Thailand: A Push Towards Fairness and Efficiency

Welcome to the riveting world of finance and taxation where the topic today drifts towards Thailand’s estate tax dynamics—a subject sparking discussions and amendments. Picture this: it’s 2015, a new law rolls out intending to fortify the nation’s revenue through estate taxes. Yet, the journey since has been less about filling coffers and more about navigating the labyrinth of loopholes and exemptions. Enter Permanent Secretary Lawan Sangsanit, a pivotal figure from the Ministry of Finance, shedding light on the ongoing saga of underwhelming tax collections. It appears the ministry, under Lawan’s guidance, is not content with playing the spectator as millions in potential taxes slip through the cracks. The initial phase of estate tax collection was marked by leniency, a perhaps too-gentle approach towards the wealthy citizens’ earthly departures and their subsequent financial legacies. However, whispers of change are in the air. Lawan hints at a future where exemptions might…

Srettha Thavisin’s Strategic Cabinet Reshuffle Sparks Political Intrigue in Thailand

In the whirlwind halls of political power, whispers of change were becoming thunderous announcements, even before an official word had been uttered. The corridors of Thailand’s government were abuzz with speculation and intrigue as rumors of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s Cabinet reshuffle danced through the air, much like the leaves swirling in the autumn wind. Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew, caught by reporters in the anticipatory hours before a Cabinet meeting on Thursday, shared his stance with a calm demeanor, despite not having been formally briefed about the rumbling changes. “Although the whispers of the media have reached my ears, I’ve advised my team to continue their dedication to their roles. Concerns about the morale of my stalwart officials linger in my mind, yet we remain undaunted,” he conveyed, his resilience clear. Cholnan’s possible departure from his post was a vibrant thread in the tapestry of rumors. Yet, amid queries…

Thailand Welcomes Kazakhstan: A New Era of Visa-Free Travel and Booming Tourism Connections

As the golden sun kisses the pristine beaches of Thailand, a burgeoning love affair between Kazakh travelers and the Land of Smiles is taking flight, quite literally, with Air Astana dramatically increasing its wingspan to accommodate the surging skies of wanderlust. The heart of this growing connection? An insatiable appetite for the exotic allure that Thailand offers, a haven for families and couples seeking solace in its tranquil beach resorts, indulging in 14-day stays that whisper tales of adventure, relaxation, and unparalleled hospitality. In a landmark move that speaks volumes of the strengthening ties between these distant lands, the Thai cabinet, in a flourish of diplomatic camaraderie, has extended a hand of timeless welcome to the Kazakh people. Thursday heralded the news that would echo across the tourism industry: “Tourists from Kazakhstan, you are forever our honored guests.” This declaration of a permanent visa waiver for Kazakhstan nationals serves as…

Suriya Champions 20-Baht Train Fare in Bangkok: A Visionary Leap Towards Sustainable Urban Mobility

In a bustling city like Bangkok, where the hum of the daily commute forms the backdrop to millions of stories, an intriguing development is unfolding—a bold move that could shift the narrative of urban transportation. This tale revolves around the audacious pledge of the Pheu Thai Party, a promise that once seemed as whimsical as a fairy tale: capping the train fare across the capital at a flat rate of 20 baht. A notion that Suriya, a key figure in this unfolding drama, championed with fervor in response to skepticism from corners of the political arena. It was during a heated debate that Surachet Pravinvongvuth, a voice from the opposition Move Forward Party, cast doubt over this ambitious plan, suggesting it was a fantastical dream at best. However, Suriya, armed with facts and unwavering determination, promptly rebuffed these claims, painting a vivid picture of a future where the throes of…

Songkran Festival 2023: Thailand’s Celebration Shadows with Road Safety Concerns

Imagine the vibrant hues and joyous laughter filling the air, as vehicles adorned with jubilant revelers and overflowing water containers form a lively procession along the road beside the enchanting Kwai River in Kanchanaburi province. This isn’t just any day—it’s the Songkran festival, Thailand’s most celebrated water festival, a time when the entire country throws open its windows to welcome the Thai New Year with splashes of water and immense joy. However, amidst the celebrations, a shadow looms over the festivities, reminding everyone of the importance of road safety. Last Wednesday marked the climax of a fervently observed road safety campaign week, orchestrated by the government in light of the Songkran festivities. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul unveiled some sobering figures on Thursday, highlighting that the joyous escapades weren’t without their toll. The week witnessed 287 souls lost and 2,060 individuals nursing injuries from traffic accidents, encapsulated in the startling tally…

Traveler Alert: Embassy Issues Safety Advisory Amid Rising Criminal Activities Abroad

Imagine embarking on an adventure, exploring new horizons, and delving into the rich tapestry of diverse cultures. Now, picture doing all of that with the comforting knowledge that your safety net is just a call away. This is the peace of mind the embassy aims to provide as it rolls out essential advice for travelers, shining a light on the importance of safeguarding one’s passport. In a world where adventure awaits at every corner, the embassy hotline at (+32) 470 859 667 stands as a beacon of hope, ready to assist wanderlust-filled souls who find themselves in a pickle. On a rather serious note, a recent announcement made on Wednesday has captured the attention of travelers and globetrotters. The trigger? A noticeable spike in criminal activities in two countries that have historically been a magnet for tourists from across the globe. From the adrenaline-inducing narratives of gang-related showdowns to the…

Pichit Chuenban Amid Speculation of Cabinet Role and Yingluck’s Potential Return: Thailand’s Political Chess Game

Imagine a world where political maneuverings play out like an intricate dance of chess, with each move meticulously planned and executed. In the heart of this complex web stands Pichit Chuenban, a figure being whispered about in the corridors of power for a potential role in Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s Cabinet. Why, you might ask? His strong connections with the influential Shinawatra family could be his ticket into the political limelight. But when confronted with the buzzing speculation that Yingluck Shinawatra, Thailand’s former Prime Minister, might end her self-imposed exile and return home this October or perhaps later in the year, Pichit plays his cards close to his chest. “I really don’t know. I know nothing about the timeframe. I’m only taking care of her case,” he states, keeping the world in suspense. His comments come on the heels of a revelation by Yingluck’s brother, Thaksin Shinawatra — himself a…