Close watch of entertainment venues after Bangkok cluster

THE Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is ensuring that entertainment venues and restaurants in the Thai capital are strictly following regulations on opening and closing hours to curb Covid19 from spreading further after a new cluster of cases was found relating to entertainment venues earlier this week.

Bangkok governor Aswin Kwanmuang announced on April 5 the closure of all entertainment venues in Khlong Toei, Wattana (Thong Lor and Ekkamai) and Bang Khae districts until April 19, after 118 people who visited entertainment venues in these areas tested positive for the virus.

BMA permanent secretary Silapasuay Raweesangsoon said: “We have been dispatching officials to inspect restaurants and entertainment venues such as pubs and bars in other districts to make sure they close at 9pm.

“Owners must also employ Covid-19 preventive measures, including installing thermal screening checkpoints, enforcing the wearing of face masks, providing hand sanitising gels or a washing station, cleaning public surfaces regularly and maintaining social distancing practices.

“The BMA inspected 14,166 restaurants, pubs and bars in the province from March 1 to April 1.

“During the Songkran Festival [April 10-15], we will increase the frequency of inspection at bus terminals to ensure that people travelling to and from their hometowns follow Covid-19 preventive measures,” she added.