The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has said it will follow the decision by the Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) on Songkran celebrations and prohibit water-splashing during the Thai New Year holiday period.
The Association of Business Operators on Khao San Road had previously requested that the CCSA reconsider its decision and allow fully-vaccinated revelers to participate in water-splashing activities along the famous street.
According to Khachit Chatchawanit, deputy permanent secretary for BMA, the CCSA decided to allow Songkran celebrations this year, but prohibited the consumption of alcohol, foam parties, water fights and powder-smearing to help prevent further COVID outbreaks.
Khachit said the BMA would issue more guidelines on Songkran celebrations following this week’s communicable disease committee meeting. The rules are set to go into effect on Friday (1 Apr).
The BMA official emphasized the importance of preventing disease outbreaks after the holidays, urging revelers to observe traditional Songkran celebrations, such as water blessing ceremonies for the elderly, and refrain from participating in water-splashing or water fights that involve large crowds.
Seniors have also been advised to get vaccinated as soon as possible or before participating in family activities at the upcoming festival.
According to the BMA, event organizers who plan to hold Songkran events with fewer than 1,000 participants must receive permission from their local district office, while events with more than 1,000 participants must seek approval from the BMA’s Health Department. (NNT)
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