Thailand is experiencing another attack of isolation and restrictions as authorities declare a seven-hour night curfew in Bangkok. Nine more provinces have been included where restrictions will be imposed to stop the spread of the virus.
The country is currently experiencing a third wave of coronavirus, and 9,276 new cases and 72 deaths are reported daily. After hours of high-level meetings, the government announced new restrictions. According to them, people have to work from home, and the curfew from 21:00 to 04:00 will be in effect from Monday. A statement from Apisamay Shrirangson, assistant spokesman for the working group, said: “We apologize for the hardship of people living in the most restricted areas, but it will contribute to effective disease control. Thailand will win.”
It is important to note here that the Thai authorities have also stated that non-urgent travel will also be prohibited.
The Thai government is already facing criticism for the slow introduction of vaccines and the low number of tests. The country’s economy has been hit hard, becoming one of the worst since the 1997 Asian economic crisis.
The new restrictions were introduced at a time when the country is seeking to rediscover tourism, which accounts for almost 20 percent of its national income. Undoubtedly, as you know, the pandemic has seriously affected the country’s tourism industry. However, Phuket has reopened to vaccinated travelers, as reported last week.