Thailand Ministry of Health reports 20,289 new COVID-19 cases and an additional 119 deaths since yesterday. The ministry also announced an additional 24,969 patients recovered from the COVID-19 virus.
The government is urging foreigners and locals to abide by the COVID preventive measures during the Songkran period. In Bangkok and Phuket, tourists and locals were found joining water splashing events without any COVID measures in place. The government responded by increasing patrols to supervise places commonly attended by foreigners.
“The government and the CCSA would like to ask for the full cooperation of locals and tourists instead of strictly enforcing the ban as we do not want to ruin the festive spirit,” said government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana.
“We hope to not see anyone splashing water along Khao San Road and any other public spaces.”
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha is concerned about the possible spike in cases after Songkran. Without any measures in place, experts fear it could reach 100,000 a day. This can overload health systems and hamper the plans of the country to ease measures.
Among the plans that are in place is the scrapping of the Thailand Pass and Test and Go scheme to attract more tourists. An increase in local cases could delay these plans by months and the economy will suffer.
Business operators and local governments are advised to inform tourists that water-splashing events are banned. There are other Songkran activities that are allowed but in a designated COVID-controlled area.
“Those who are going to celebrate the festival, especially young people, are advised to carefully observe their health and avoid having close contact with children, elderly people, and sick people when they come back home,” he said.