The whole of August has been all doomed with us all being locked up in strict regulations to contain the worrisome outbreak of coronavirus. Today (August 27), it was reported from the meeting of the Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration led by prime minister Prayut Chan-o-cha that the first phase of lockdown relaxation would be in effect from September.
From the 1st of September, Thailand will start lifting up some of the regulations as the first step of the three-phase lockdown relaxation policy. Here's the overall situation of high-risk areas (ie, Bangkok) will look like during this initial phase:
- Restaurants can reopen for dine-in until 20:00. It is noteworthy that those with AC can open at 50% of their capacity, whereas those not with the system can open at 75%. Restaurant staff needs to be fully vaccinated and a weekly antigen test is required. It is also reported that diners must be vaccinated to eat indoors, but details are still unclear.
- Shopping malls, department stores, and community malls can return to business until as late as 20:00.
- Tutoring schools, cinemas, spas, amusement parks, water parks, fitness centers, public pools, and convention halls located inside shopping centers must remain closed.
- Barbers and beauty parlors can reopen. Meanwhile, massage parlors can open for only foot massage.
- Outdoor sports venues and public parks can reopen until 20:00. Sports competitions can be carried, but no spectators are allowed to participate.
- Domestic travel is allowed with public transports able to run at 75% of the capacity. However, it is only encouraged under necessity.
- The night curfew is still in practice between 21:00-04:00
Source: Prachachat