Chiang Rai running out of air purifiers as pollution increases

14 Sept 01:52 Key points summarised by AI

Chiang Rai faces a severe shortage of air purifiers as residents, particularly wealthier ones, rush to buy them to combat choking air pollution.
The pollution is caused by extensive, uncontained forest and farm fires burning for days across local and cross-border areas, exacerbated by dry weather.
Local authorities are struggling to control the persistent fires, leading to village evacuations and a full deployment of resources with limited success.
A medical specialist from Chiang Mai criticized the government's inaction, urging citizens to take personal measures for their health given the severe air quality and the right to clean air.

Cabinet approves same-sex cohabitation bill

22 Oct 09:40 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's cabinet approved a landmark bill to legalize cohabitation for intersex couples, potentially making it the first Asian nation to formally recognize LGBT partnerships.
The proposed law grants registered intersex couples significant rights, including collective financial management, inheritance, medical consent, and the ability to arrange funerals.
This legislative move aims to rectify the existing legal framework that only recognizes heterosexual marriage, aligning Thai law with human rights principles and the reality of intersex couples living together.