The Thai Government announced on 21 January 2014 that a state of emergency will be imposed for 60 days, with effect from 22 January 2014, in all districts of Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani’s Lardlumkaew district and Samut Prakarn’s Bang Pli district (which includes Suvarnabhumi Airport).
Political demonstrations continue in and around Bangkok and in several provinces in Thailand. There have been incidents of violence at protest sites and during protest marches, including bombings and shootings, which led to deaths and injuries. Some of these have occurred near major shopping malls and in areas frequented by tourists which are close to the protest sites.
Protest sites include major intersections at Asok, Pathumwan, Lumpini, Silom, Ratchaprasong, and Chaeng Wattana, some of which are located in the vicinity of shopping malls like MBK, Siam Paragon, Central World and Terminal 21. Protest marches and new rallying points, such as government buildings, could be announced at short notice.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand has published a map for visitors showing where demonstrations are taking place.
View Protest Sites during Bangkok Shutdown in February 2014 in a larger map
The map also includes information marking out the protest spots where violent clashes with police led to a handful of deaths last December.
MFA advises Singaporeans travelling to Bangkok during this period should avoid large gatherings and protest marches, as well as all protests sites and their vicinity during the day and especially at night. The Thai Government has warned that foreigners who join the anti-government protests face risk of deportation. There are reports of people carrying firearms and explosives in the protest sites and surrounding areas. Even demonstrations that are meant to be peaceful can turn confrontational, and escalate into violence without warning. Traffic disruptions, blockages and delays can be expected to be severe.
Singaporeans in Bangkok should monitor local news and developments closely, take all necessary precautions for personal safety, and purchase comprehensive travel and medical insurance. In addition, Singaporeans are encouraged to eRegister with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/ so that the ministry may contact them should the need arise. Singaporeans who are in need of consular assistance while in Bangkok may contact the Singapore embassy in Bangkok or the 24 hr MFA Duty Office at:
Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Thailand
129 South Sathorn Road, Bangkok 10120
Tel: +66-(2) 286-2111 or +66-(81) 844-3580 (24-hours)
Fax: +66-(2) 287-2578
Email: [email protected]
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24-hours)
Tel: 6379 8800, 6379 8855
Fax: 6476-7302
Email: [email protected]
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Transport recommendations
Best mode of transport of getting around would be the skytrain and subway however it may be crowded due to the protest sites being carried out near the stations.
Tourists can also take taxis and tuk tuks but they are advised to hail the vehicles instead of taking one that is awaiting for passengers. Apart from the land transport, tourist can also opt to take the canal and river boat services. Seek advise from the hotel for further information.
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