Heavy rain forces closure of highway linking Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai

21 Sept 06:10 Key points summarised by AI

Heavy rainfall from tropical storm Bebinca caused flash floods, damaging Highway 118 between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai and forcing its closure.
Travelers are advised to use three alternate routes: Highway 11 (350km), Highways 1001/1150 (250km), or Highways 107/109 (280km).

Italy sends troops, toughens security laws after Milan clashes

Today 07:58 Key points summarised by AI

Italy deployed 500 troops to Milan and enacted stricter security laws, including easier detention for minors and new penalties for violent protest participation, following weekend riots and looting.
Nationwide fuel price protests, particularly in southern Italy, severely disrupted vital supply chains, forcing major pasta producers like Garofalo and Rummo to halt or scale back production.
The protests led to food shortages in southern supermarkets, prompting Transport Minister Salvini to pledge €480 million to address the fuel crisis, though some unions continue blockades.
Prime Minister Meloni condemned the violence, emphasizing that "destroying and stealing is not protest, it is crime," as the government faces upcoming elections dominated by economic, security, and immigration concerns.