Archived
On 23 March 2010, the Thai Cabinet approved the extension of the use of the Internal Security Act, B.E. 2551 (2007) until 30 March 2010 but with much reduced area coverage to three provinces, namely, Bangkok; Pak Kred and Muang Districts, Nonthaburi Province; and Bang Boh, Bang Phli, Bang Sao Thong, Phra Pradang and Muang Districts, Samut Prakan Province. Earlier, the Government had decided to use the ISA from 11 to 23 March covering Bangkok, Nonthaburi and certain districts in six other provinces. The decision was taken in view of the declared intention by the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) to continue their rallies.
The use of the ISA is aimed to enable security agencies – police, military and civilian – to more efficiently integrate their effort and take measures provided for under the Act and applicable laws to prevent and mitigate, as much as possible, undue disruptions, disturbances or impact on the safety of the general public. The Act does not prohibit peaceful demonstrations, and measures implemented have not and will not unduly affect the people’s daily routine nor business activities.
Additionally, in order to provide security for the scheduled parliamentary meetings on 24 March, the Centre for the Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO) has announced additional measures prohibiting unauthorised vehicles from entering certain roads around Parliament building. Police officers are also on stand-by to facilitate traffic flows in the area concerned.
For tourists visiting or planning to visit Thailand, it should be noted that the demonstrations have not affected popular tourist destinations, particularly those outside of Bangkok, nor the safety of foreign tourists as foreigners have never been targeted in the on-going political conflict. The country's transportation system, including all its airports, operates normally. Meanwhile, the Government will continue to monitor the situation closely and step up measures, as necessary, to ensure safety of the public, including foreign visitors.
Nevertheless, members of the public are advised to remain vigilant, particularly in areas where protesters may gather, and occasional traffic congestions could be expected in certain parts of Bangkok. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has a 24-hour English language hotline at 1672 to provide tourists with further information. The tourist police can also be reached at 1155.
In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has a 24-hour operation centre, which can provide foreigners with further information at +662-575-1023, +662-981-7225, +66-88-022-1540 or +66-88-022-1541.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
