New Ride-Hailing Regulations Start in October

A major road collapse near Vajira Hospital in Bangkok's Dusit district has severely damaged a 1,200mm water main, disrupting tap water supply to 31 streets across the capital. The incident occurred during construction of the MRT Purple Line, affecting areas from Samsen Road to the tourist hub of Khao San Road. The Metropolitan Waterworks Authority has deployed water tankers to provide emergency supplies to hospitals and residents while repairs are underway. Vajira Hospital has suspended outpatient services for two days, redirecting patients to other facilities. Officials have not yet provided a timeline for restoring full water service, urging residents to conserve water and monitor updates.

Business owners in Pattaya have raised alarms after witnessing foreign adults using young children, some as young as one year old, to sell roses to tourists on Walking Street in the early morning hours. The children reportedly pressure tourists by clinging to their arms, leading to uncomfortable encounters and forced purchases of 100-baht flowers. Local operators warn this practice is damaging Pattaya’s reputation as a family-friendly destination and taking opportunities away from Thai vendors. Despite previous police crackdowns, the groups continue to operate, leading to calls for more consistent enforcement. Residents are urging authorities to take stronger action to protect both children and the city’s tourism image.

A hit-and-run incident in Chon Buri occurred when a speeding black Isuzu D-Max crashed into a Ford Ranger on Chaipornwithee Road, forcing the victim off the road. The at-fault driver fled the scene at high speed, pursued by police and locals who later found the damaged pickup abandoned in a cassava field. The driver had escaped on foot before authorities arrived, leaving behind the vehicle with significant front-end damage. Police seized the abandoned truck and are reviewing CCTV footage that captured the fleeing vehicle sparking along the road. Investigators suspect the driver may have been concealing illegal items and have launched a search while urging public assistance.

Bangkok Airways has received a 5-star sustainability award from the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s STAR programme, recognizing its leadership in eco-friendly aviation and responsible tourism. The airline was evaluated across four key areas—governance, socio-economic responsibility, cultural impact, and environmental performance—aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals. This marks the second consecutive year Bangkok Airways has achieved top ratings, reflecting its commitment to emissions reduction, community engagement, and fair employment practices. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool praised the airline for demonstrating that sustainability is an actionable framework for long-term benefits. The award reinforces Bangkok Airways' role in supporting Thailand’s vision to become a world-class quality destination that balances tourism growth with environmental and social responsibility.

A special task force raided the "24 BAR" in Suphan Buri, detaining 415 patrons who tested positive for drug use after authorities sealed the venue and conducted mandatory urine tests on all 1,042 people present. The operation uncovered narcotics and knives on the premises, along with nearly 50 minors—including some as young as 15—35 of whom had used drugs. The bar operator now faces multiple charges related to underage service, illegal alcohol sales, and permitting drug use. Authorities are recommending a five-year closure of the venue, with senior officials praising the raid as part of a broader crackdown on illicit entertainment venues. The success of this operation signals potential further inspections in other provinces as the campaign intensifies.

Wat Roi Phra Phutthabat Phu Manorom is a well-known temple located on Phu Manorom hill in Mukdahan province, Thailand. The temple is famous for its large and impressive Buddha statue, called Phrachao Yai Kaeo Mukda Sitrairat, which stands 84 meters tall. This giant statue, built to celebrate King Rama IX’s 84th birthday, can be seen from far away and shows the Buddha in the posture of subduing Mara. The temple’s location on a hill offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors.

Another highlight of Wat Roi Phra Phutthabat Phu Manorom is the grand Naga statue named Phaya Si Mukda Maha Muni Nilapala Nakkharat. Stretching 122 meters long and 20 meters high, this colorful serpent-like statue appears to slither along the ground beside the path to the Buddha statue, raising its head to look over the Mekong River. The Naga is believed to be a guardian of the temple and is highly respected by both locals and visitors.

Inside the temple grounds, there are also other important religious items, such as a replica of the Buddha’s footprint made from sandstone, and a small golden Buddha statue called Phra Angkhan Phen. The temple combines beautiful religious art, peaceful natural surroundings, and deep spiritual meaning. It is a popular place for both pilgrims and tourists, offering a unique and memorable experience in northeastern Thailand.

Typhoon Ragasa’s influence will intensify monsoon conditions across Thailand tomorrow, bringing heavy to very heavy rainfall to northern, northeastern, central, and eastern regions, including Bangkok. Strong southwest winds over the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand will generate waves of 2–3 meters, exceeding 3 meters in stormy areas, prompting warnings for fishermen to avoid sea travel. Residents in hilly, low-lying, and flood-prone areas should remain alert for potential flash floods and overflowing rivers.

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The value of the Thai baht dipped slightly compared to several major foreign currencies as of September 24. The Thai baht's rates against other top currencies are as follows: