Bangkok Governor Plans BTS Fare Hike, Government Transfer

Bangkok's governor plans to meet with the prime minister to discuss raising BTS fares from 17-45 baht to 20-25 baht and transferring the Green Line to government control to reduce operational costs.

2h ago Khaosod

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced on July 9 that he will meet with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on July 13 to discuss several issues, including adjusting BTS fares and transferring the Green Line to government control. The current government-set fare of 17-45 baht has increased ridership, prompting consideration of a new rate of 20-25 baht. If the government assumes control of the Green Line, it could reduce costs for residents. The governor also plans to pursue simpler initiatives first, such as tree-planting in areas facing green space scarcity and addressing street vendors and mobile traders, which he believes align with government priorities.

When asked about mega-projects, Chadchart said two to three proposals are under consideration: a river crossing bridge, a public plaza project, and a civic or administrative center on the Thonburi side. However, budget constraints remain a concern, as funds must cover the BTS's annual 5-billion-baht deficit. Regarding anti-corruption efforts, the governor acknowledged that external agencies with broader authority, such as the National Anti-Corruption Commission, would be needed. He also clarified the distinction between foreign traders selling goods and Chinese nationals operating as street vendors, noting that foreign traders fall under his jurisdiction, while Chinese vendor issues require coordination among multiple agencies through joint investigations.

No. 01 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Police

Police Investigate Missing Gold Amulets After Woman's Collapse

An 86-year-old woman's death in Rayong has sparked a police investigation after her family discovered valuable gold amulets and jewelry worth hundreds of thousands of baht were missing from their home.

2h ago Khaosod

An 86-year-old woman named Nang Eam collapsed suddenly at her home and was transported to hospital by emergency responders, but later died. While the family initially focused on her medical emergency, they subsequently discovered that several items had gone missing: a one-baht gold necklace, closed-eye Luang Pu Tim amulets, tamarind powder amulets, candies, and Luang Pu Tim sacred water that had been collected since 1974, with a combined value of hundreds of thousands of baht.

On July 9, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., the deceased woman's 87-year-old husband Nai Sumet, along with their daughter and son-in-law, filed a report with investigator Police Lieutenant Wittaya Kulbun at Ban Khai Police Station. They brought photographs showing the woman wearing the gold necklace while still alive as evidence.

Family members confirmed that the elderly woman always wore the gold necklace and never removed it, except occasionally to hang it on a nail by the house pillar—a location well known within the family. However, given the sudden collapse, no one had the chance to notice when it disappeared.

Ban Khai Police Superintendent Pol. Colonel Pramod Kongkahlai stated that upon receiving the complaint, he immediately ordered investigators to inspect the scene and establish a timeline of events while interviewing all relevant persons. Police are preparing to conduct a thorough search of the house once the family is ready, as they are currently grieving and occupied with funeral preparations at Bung Ton Chan Temple in Ban Khai District, Rayong Province.

"We now have preliminary information about who entered and exited the scene, including municipal officials and rescue workers who arrived first," the superintendent said. "We will gather all evidence to clarify this case and ensure justice for all parties involved."

No. 02 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Police

Worker Killed When Pile Driver Collapses On Rama II Road

A pile driver collapsed on Rama II Road in Samut Sakhon on July 9, killing a worker at the scene and causing major traffic delays while authorities investigated.

2h ago Khaosod

A fatal accident occurred on Rama II Road outbound near a company facility at the Khlong Luang U-turn bridge in Samut Sakhon province on July 9, 2569, according to reports from JS100 Radio's Facebook page. A pile driver collapsed and struck a male worker who was performing his duties, resulting in one death at the scene. Police from Bang Torad Station, along with rescue teams and related agencies, immediately responded to investigate the area, conduct an autopsy, collect evidence, and determine the cause of the accident. Officials coordinated efforts to remove the pile driver and reopen the area as quickly as possible. The accident disrupted traffic flow, forcing authorities to temporarily close the area to facilitate operations and site clearance. This resulted in continuous traffic congestion on Rama II Road outbound in the affected section. Authorities are requesting public cooperation to avoid the area. Those who must pass through are advised to exercise special caution and closely follow official announcements for safety and travel convenience.

No. 03 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Community

Lucky And Unlucky Days: Romance For Singles, Communication Warnings

Singles may find romantic fortune this week, but those in relationships face communication challenges and potential deception in personal matters.

2h ago Khaosod

Lucky And Unlucky Days Friday, July 10, 2026 By Bussaphan

Aries Today you may experience unexpected expenses from multiple sources. Money may slip away or you may need to spend due to your own carelessness. Be very cautious when communicating with foreigners about work matters. This period requires exceptional focus and patience in your work.

Taurus Today you will improve your workplace or make home renovations suited to your family's needs. Capable staff will benefit you greatly, but afterward you should monitor their work closely, as they may behave differently in public and in private.

Gemini Today you may engage in joint business ventures and trade with foreign speakers, or experience romantic interest from a foreigner. Your home or workplace will flourish—perhaps with new entertainment venues. Real estate work during this period will be especially promising long-term.

Cancer You will develop close relationships with knowledgeable people and scholars who may enhance your well-being. What you truly seek now is a peaceful life, which offers good opportunities for learning. The main challenge is relationship and communication issues that may become complicated.

Leo You should not have family members travel with others today. Previous social conflicts will intensify. Do not rush when ordering goods from distant places, as you may be deceived. Entertainment and romantic matters will increasingly involve deception.

Virgo You will be happy among coworkers and may take short trips together. Relatives working in other provinces will return with rare gifts. Soon you will receive a lump sum of cash that is not a loan. Romance may face obstacles, but single people may find love with someone who brings good fortune.

Libra Today you enjoy good fortune from work and love. You will meet old and new coworkers with mutual appreciation. No obstacles exist in personal or public matters. If you lack cash or your guardian doesn't allow spending, you will receive unexpected money without any risk involved.

Scorpio Today exercise may result in minor accidents like tripping or cuts. If annoyed by morally weak neighbors, you may struggle to control your emotions. Life and work generally have no significant obstacles. Your children may consider studying abroad.

Sagittarius Today you may lose items or need to discard something from your life. Staff may be stubborn or disappoint you, and friends may not visit as before. During this period, avoid dwelling on worries, as they will naturally resolve when the time comes.

Capricorn You will feel unhappy at home or your residence, especially if you live in employee housing, as inconsiderate neighbors create tension. Whatever you do well, the community is indifferent. If household members speak unkindly, conflict will escalate.

No. 04 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Politician Fires Back At PM Over Parliament Attendance

Pheu Thai MP Nattapong Ruengpanya criticized Prime Minister Anutin for poor Parliament attendance after the PM claimed not to recognize him during questioning over a controversial 400-billion-baht loan decree. Nattapong argued the governmen

2h ago Khaosod

On July 9, 2025, at Parliament, Nattapong Ruengpanya, a Pheu Thai list-based MP and party leader, commented on Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Interior Minister saying he didn't know Nattapong after being questioned about opposition calls for accountability over the 400-billion-baht loan decree allegedly breaching the Constitution.

Nattapong stated: "The PM may not attend Parliament very often, so he doesn't remember MPs' faces. I understand that. If he wants to remember other lawmakers, he should answer parliamentary questions more frequently to refresh his memory."

When asked about the PM's position that the National Security Council cannot be dissolved because it has been with Thailand a long time, Nattapong said each government agency must review its origins and purpose, since domestic security agencies have diverse functions with significant overlaps. He cited Vietnam's example of streamlining and consolidating provincial administrations, arguing that reviewing which agencies could be merged or dissolved would ultimately benefit citizens and save the nation's budget.

No. 05 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Senate Approves Clean Air Bill After Three-Day Debate

The Senate overwhelmingly passed a comprehensive Clean Air Management Act on July 9 with 145 votes in favor, though senators flagged concerns about enforcement complexity and potential corruption risks.

2h ago Khaosod

The Senate passed the draft Clean Air Management Act with 145 votes in favor, 4 opposed, and 11 abstentions on July 9, 2569, following a three-day review period from July 6-9. The special committee, chaired by Senator Wuttichart Kalyanamit, completed its second-reading deliberation with substantial amendments to the 273-article bill based on feedback from the House of Representatives. The legislation will now return to the House for consideration of whether to approve the Senate's modifications in the next parliamentary session, as the current session closes July 11.

The Senate also approved supplementary notes expressing concerns about the law's complexity and potential impact. Senator Ratchaneekorn Thongtip noted that the legislation is intricate in its committee structure and penalties, warranting periodic impact assessments once enacted. She warned that enforcement could affect individuals and private businesses alike, while the discretion granted to officials may increase opportunities for corruption.

No. 06 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Democrats Accept Court Ruling On 400 Billion Baht Loan

The Democrat Party accepts a Constitutional Court ruling that a 400 billion baht emergency loan decree is constitutional, but warns the decision could set a dangerous precedent allowing routine government borrowing during normal economic ti

2h ago Khaosod

On July 9, 2569, at Parliament, Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva stated that the party, as part of the petitioners, acknowledges and respects the Constitutional Court's ruling that the 400 billion baht emergency decree does not violate the constitution. However, the party has not yet seen detailed reasoning since today's announcement was only a summary of the verdict.

Abhisit expressed concern that this ruling could set a new precedent allowing governments to borrow during normal economic conditions if budget allocations are insufficient, potentially undermining fiscal discipline frameworks established by successive constitutions. Thailand has avoided such borrowing problems for decades, he noted.

Regarding the second tranche of borrowed funds for energy projects, Abhisit pointed out that even the Constitutional Court's ruling contained dissenting opinions questioning whether the funds met constitutional conditions. He called on the government to clarify the project details and allow all parties to participate in reviewing projects for efficiency and transparency.

Abhisit acknowledged that the court likely exercised caution to avoid hindering executive function, and that the current constitution limits the court's authority to assess urgent necessity while allowing interpretation of economic security concerns. He stressed the need for the government to present clear medium and long-term fiscal plans, including revenue increases and spending cuts, to avoid future borrowing needs.

On the energy projects financed by the second tranche, Abhisit expressed concern that while the government claims economic security justification based on oil import dependency, the current budget review process shows no detailed project information or clear vetting mechanisms.

No. 07 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Thai Dance And Arts Shine At Netherlands Festival

Thailand's Bunditpatanasilpa Institute showcased traditional Nora dance, Thai costumes and performing arts at the Thailand Grand Festival 2026 in The Hague, captivating Dutch and international audiences from July 2-6.

2h ago Khaosod

THE HAGUE, Netherlands — The Bunditpatanasilpa Institute (BPI) showcased Nora dance, traditional Thai costumes and creative performing arts, captivating Dutch and international audiences at the Thailand Grand Festival 2026 in The Hague, the Netherlands.

Thailand's BPI under the Ministry of Culture continues to advance its mission of promoting Thai arts and culture internationally. By showcasing expertise in traditional Thai dance, music, performing arts and cultural heritage, the institute brings these cultural treasures to both the Thai diaspora and international audiences. The initiative aims to reflect Thailand's cultural identity, raise global awareness and enhance the value of Thai cultural arts worldwide.

Assistant Professor Dr. Somkiat Poomipak, President of the BPI, assigned the Faculty of Performing Arts to lead a troupe of performers at the festival. The event, held from July 2-6 at Lange Voorhout in The Hague and organized by the Royal Thai Embassy, attracted strong interest from Dutch and international audiences, earning praise for the elegance and beauty of Thai performing arts.

Performances featured traditional and contemporary productions, with highlights including Nora, the southern Thai dance-drama inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021, alongside traditional Thai costumes. The program opened with "Charm of Siam" followed by traditional Nora dance and creative productions including "The Flight of Kinnaree and Nora Sacrificial Dance," "The Rhythm of Isan Wooden Castanets," "The Graceful Fan Dance," and "The Bouquet of Thai Arts." All performances received warm reception from audiences.

On July 5, the Faculty of Performing Arts also organized a cultural workshop in The Hague for Thai diaspora members, introducing them to fundamentals of Thai performing arts and the creative performance "Puen Thai." The session aimed to promote learning about Thai cultural arts while strengthening connections between overseas Thais and their heritage.

The BPI continues its role as Thailand's leading educational institution for arts and culture, preserving and promoting Thai performing arts internationally while fostering cultural exchange and strengthening ties between Thailand and the global community.

No. 08 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Tourism

Japan Extends Visa-Free Travel for Thai Tourists

Japan has extended its visa-free travel scheme for Thai passport holders through June 2027, allowing stays of up to 15 days without a visa.

2h ago Khaosod

Japan has extended its temporary visa exemption scheme for holders of ordinary Thai passports by another year, allowing Thai tourists to enter the country without a visa for stays of up to 15 days per visit.

The Thai Department of Consular Affairs confirmed on 8 July that the visa-free measure remains in effect from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027.

Thai authorities reminded travellers to strictly comply with Japan's immigration rules by not overstaying their permitted period of stay and not engaging in employment without the appropriate authorization.

Under the current arrangements, Thai passport holders can travel visa-free to 35 countries and territories, with the permitted length of stay varying by destination. Thai citizens may stay for up to one year in Georgia without a visa.

Countries allowing visa-free stays of up to 90 days include Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, South Korea, Peru and Haiti. Visa-free stays of up to 60 days are available in Samoa, Panama and Cambodia.

Thai passport holders may stay for up to 30 days without a visa in China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Laos, Macau, Mongolia, Malaysia, Maldives, Philippines, Russia, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, Tajikistan, Timor-Leste, Turkey, Vietnam and Kyrgyzstan.

Visa-free stays of 14 to 15 days are available in Japan (15 days under the temporary scheme valid from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027), Taiwan (14 days until 31 July 2026), Myanmar (14 days for arrivals via international airports only), Brunei and Oman.

No. 09 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Community

JAS Hosts World Cup Watch Party at Bangkok Rail Park

JAS and MONO are hosting a free FIFA World Cup Fan Park at Bangkok's Rail Park on July 12, 2025, featuring the Argentina vs. Switzerland quarterfinal on giant screens with pre-match analysis from Thai football commentators.

2h ago Khaosod

JAS, the exclusive broadcaster of FIFA World Cup 2026 in Thailand, partnering with the Monomax application under MONO, is hosting a new fan experience at "FIFA WORLD CUP FAN PARK THAILAND 2026: LIVE THE GAME, SHARE THE MOMENT." The green space in central Bangkok will bring football fans together to cheer the World Cup quarterfinals with entertainment and lifestyle activities for everyone on Sunday, July 12, 2025, from 6:00-10:00 a.m. at Vachirabenjatas Park (Rail Park) in the Caterpillar Plaza area.

The event embraces a "New Sport Lifestyle" concept, blending world-class sports viewing with relaxation, exercise, and quality time in a green environment, transforming an ordinary Sunday morning into a celebration for football fans and families. The live broadcast on large LED screens will feature the World Cup quarterfinal match between Argentina and Switzerland, kicking off at 8:00 a.m. Before the match, fans can enjoy a Pre-Match Talk session diving into key tactical points with famous Thai football commentators and analysts: Games-Suphawut Srakwan (Games), Kuay-Nattapol Damrongratchavattana (Tan Kuay), Yak-Jitakorn Srikamkruea (Yak Doi Daeng), and Je-Warapat Arunphakdi, who will discuss tactics and team preparations to enhance the viewing experience.

Admission is free. Fans can watch the live broadcast in a relaxed atmosphere on Sunday, July 12, 2025, from 6:30-10:00 a.m. at Vachirabenjatas Park (Rail Park) in the Caterpillar Plaza area. For more details, visit the JAS Group Facebook page.

No. 10 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Police

Police Bust Birth Certificate Fraud Ring Using Fake Thai Fathers

Police dismantled a birth certificate fraud ring that used a fake Thai father to register 164 Chinese children over five years, arresting a hospital broker and district official who facilitated the scheme for 70,000 baht per case in the Tho

2h ago Khaosod

On July 9, 2026, Deputy Police Commissioner Samran Nualmma, along with National Police Office Commander Nopsit Poolswat, launched Operation 'Scale of the Dragon' to arrest a man using the alias 'Thipaya' who was hired to register false births for foreign nationals. He worked in collaboration with hospital staff from a private hospital in the Thonburi area and local district office officials.

Simultaneously, Bangkok Metropolitan Police investigation chief Colonel Chotiwat Leungvilai and his team arrested Ms. S., a medical records officer at a private hospital in Thonburi, identified as a broker for the 'Chinese children' operation. She coordinated the arrangement of Chinese clients seeking delivery services at the hospital, with package fees of 70,000 baht, earning 20,000 baht in commission for arranging paperwork. The scheme had been operating for over five years.

Medical records review revealed 164 Chinese nationals who used the same Thai father for birth registration over approximately five years. Hospital records showed no prior pregnancy records under this Thai father, yet birth certificates were subsequently issued with him retroactively listed as the father.

Colonel Chotiwat read the arrest warrant and charges including misconduct in office and corruption. A district official identified as Ms. S. was also arrested for registering and issuing birth certificates to Chinese children. Both suspects were taken to Bangkok Metropolitan Police Division 8 for further questioning and investigation.

Police are currently executing search warrants on the homes of the Thai parents of Chinese children involved in the scheme.

No. 11 of ∞ Read at source → Next