New Crack Monitored at Bangkok Sinkhole Site

Thai police have cracked down on an illegal migrant labor network operating construction projects on Koh Pha Ngan, arresting several Myanmar nationals. The group was found working on a luxury housing project funded by an Israeli investor who provided 6 million baht for labor costs. Investigations revealed financial transactions totaling nearly 9 million baht linked to their unauthorized construction activities. Additional charges were filed against workers operating beyond their permits and for illegal entry into Thailand. Authorities are now pursuing the foreign investor and Thai facilitators involved in the illicit operation.

A coalition of doctors and civic groups has submitted an open letter urging the Public Health Ministry to revoke the 2022 order that removed cannabis from the narcotics list. They argue that shifting policies have created public confusion and increased health risks, including rising hospitalizations and cannabis-induced psychosis. The group opposes recent proposals to ease regulations, warning they would effectively legalize recreational use. They specifically want to prevent cannabis purchases without prescriptions and reduce quality control for growers. The coalition is calling for cannabis to be returned to the narcotics list and strictly regulated as a medical substance only.

The Department of Rural Roads will illuminate Bhumibol Bridge I and II on October 13, 2025, from 7 PM to midnight in honor of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. This tribute commemorates Navamindra Maharaj Day, which marks the anniversary of the beloved monarch's passing in 2016. The lighting ceremony reflects deep loyalty to King Rama IX, who dedicated his life to improving the wellbeing of the Thai people. Both bridges were constructed under his royal initiative, symbolizing his vision for national infrastructure development. Beyond honoring his legacy, the illumination is expected to enhance Bangkok's tourism appeal while allowing the public to appreciate the bridges' scenic beauty.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is constructing the Lumphini Hawker Centre on Ratchadamri Road, scheduled to open in early 2026 as part of its plan to formalize street vending. The open-air facility will accommodate 88 vendors per shift operating in two daily rotations from 5am to midnight. Priority for stalls will be given to displaced Sarasin Road vendors who are Thai nationals earning below 180,000 baht annually. This Singapore-inspired model aims to improve food safety while addressing sidewalk congestion issues in the city. The project reflects ongoing efforts to balance street food culture with public space management, following a 2016 campaign that displaced thousands of vendors.

Pattaya police arrested a heavily intoxicated driver early yesterday morning after he was discovered asleep at the wheel of his pickup truck. The incident occurred around 3:30 AM when the stationary vehicle blocked a north Pattaya intersection, ignoring green traffic signals. Officers and bystanders spent over 20 minutes attempting to wake the disoriented man, estimated to be 30-35 years old. Inside the vehicle, police found beer bottles and confirmed the driver showed no signs of medical emergency but was severely impaired by alcohol. The unidentified man was detained at Pattaya City Police Station to face driving under the influence charges.

The Bhumibol Bridges, also called the “Mega Bridges,” are two large cable-stayed bridges in Thailand. They connect the busy industrial area of Samut Prakan with the Port of Bangkok. These impressive bridges have diamond-shaped pylons and long spans that let them cross the Chao Phraya River twice. Together with high-level roads called viaducts, the bridges and connecting roads stretch for about 5 kilometers. The Bhumibol Bridges are a key part of the 13-kilometer Industrial Ring Road, which helps connect southern Bangkok with Samut Prakan province.

Each bridge has its own special name given by King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The northern bridge is called Bhumibol 1, and it connects the districts of Yan Nawa in Bangkok and Phra Pradaeng in Samut Prakan. The southern bridge is known as Bhumibol 2, linking Phra Pradaeng City and Samrong Tai Sub-district. Both bridges were designed to carry a lot of vehicles, with three lanes each way and an extra climbing lane for the main approaches. These bridges help thousands of people travel quickly between important industrial areas, avoiding busy city roads and reducing traffic jams.

The Bhumibol Bridges are known for their modern engineering and beautiful design. Their tall pylons and strong cables support the decks high above the river, and there is even a large interchange between the two bridges, suspended 50 meters off the ground. Opened in 2006, the bridges have made travel easier and safer for drivers, although motorcycles are not allowed to use them. The bridges are not only important for transport, but they have also become landmarks of Bangkok. There is even a statue of King Bhumibol Adulyadej in nearby Lat Pho Park, showing the deep respect Thai people have for their late king and his contributions to the country.

A significant surge in rainfall is expected across Thailand tomorrow as an easterly wave moves across the country and the southwest monsoon strengthens. Heavy downpours are forecast for the lower Northeast, Eastern, and Central regions, including Bangkok, with the potential for flash floods and runoff in risk areas.

As of October 13, 2025, the Thai baht's rates against other top currencies are as follows: