‘No winners’ in Thailand’s fresh lockdown offensive against COVID

13 Sept 10:56 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand expanded its semi-lockdown to 29 provinces until at least August 31, severely impacting daily life and businesses amidst a surging fourth COVID-19 wave and fears of prolonged restrictions.
The Public Health Ministry forecasts that continued semi-lockdown and elderly vaccination are crucial to keep daily deaths below 200, preventing the health system from collapsing under a potential surge to nearly 600 daily fatalities without measures.
Experts criticize the government for being "too strict last year, too late this year," attributing the current severe fourth wave, driven by the Delta variant, to delayed lockdown decisions and leading to significant economic contraction forecasts.
KKP Research anticipates extended and possibly stricter lockdowns, projecting minimal economic growth for 2021-2022, and urges the government to enhance transparency, accelerate mRNA vaccine procurement, and provide robust public assistance.

Six injured after car smashes into On Nut shopping mall

Yesterday 22:44 Key points summarised by AI

A 67-year-old woman drove her car through the glass frontage of a Bangkok shopping mall, injuring six people, including a six-year-old girl.
The driver claimed she accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake after being startled, causing the vehicle to surge forward.
She apologized to the victims, promising insurance coverage and additional financial aid, while police continue to gather statements before filing charges.