Thailand’s PM defends further extension of national state of emergency

13 Sept 05:51 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's PM, General Prayut Chan-o-cha, defended extending the national state of emergency until the end of July, citing a high risk of a second COVID-19 wave despite entering the 5th phase of lockdown relaxation.
The PM credited public cooperation and the emergency decree for effectively containing the pandemic, enabling swift government action like border closures, while dismissing criticisms regarding civil liberties.
The CCSA approved the reopening of pubs, bars, karaoke bars, massage parlors, and internet/game cafés under strict conditions, including social distancing and operating hour limits.
Convenience stores can now operate 24/7, and shopping malls until 10 pm, with specific age and time restrictions applied to internet and game cafés for minors.

Flooding persists in Bangkok and 22 provinces

Today 16:00 Key points summarised by AI

Persistent flooding continues across Bangkok and 22 Thai provinces, though water levels are gradually receding in many affected areas.
Over 604,000 families, impacting approximately 1.83 million people, are still grappling with the widespread flood conditions.
The national flood death toll has reached 80 since mid-September, with fatalities reported across various provinces.
Major regions like Pathum Thani, Ayutthaya, and Bangkok report significant numbers of affected households, with hundreds of thousands still in trouble.