Thailand’s authorities have moved to assure tourists that the country is operating as normal after a massive 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck neighbouring Myanmar on Friday (28 March) and was felt as far away as Bangkok.
With its epicentre in northwest Myanmar, the quake was the largest to hit the nation in more than a century, officials say. Along with Thailand, tremors were felt in parts of Bangladesh, Vietnam and China.
According to CNN, at least 1,700 people are now confirmed dead in Myanmar, but experts warn the true toll may take weeks to emerge.
In Bangkok, where the quake damaged buildings and bridges, at least 17 more deaths have been recorded, Al Jazeera reported late Sunday evening.
Normal service resumes
In an update on Sunday, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) said that “Thailand, particularly Bangkok, has returned to normal after the earthquake centered in Myanmar”.
“The government is actively monitoring the situation, conducting inspections and implementing safety measures,” it stated.
“Visitors can confidently continue their travel plans and enjoy all that Thailand has to offer.”
TAT reports that “key services, including transportation, tourism and public facilities, remain largely unaffected”.
This includes major shopping malls, restaurants and attractions. Airports have also returned to normal.
“All Bangkok airports remain operational. All public transportation systems at [Suvarnabhum] airport are fully operational, and the situation has returned to normal,” it adds. It’s also business as usual at Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport.
In addition, Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) announced that all six of its airports across the country, including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai International Airport, Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport, Phuket International Airport and Hat Yai International Airport “have resumed normal operations”.
Major carriers Thai Airways International, Bangkok Airways and AirAsia also reported that flights are operating normally, although Thai Airways’ contact centre and sales office, including its headquarters “will be temporarily closed”.
Elsewhere, Bangkok’s BTS Skytrain & SRT Red Line are running as usual, while the MRT Blue & Purple Lines are also operational, according to TAT. Long-distance trains and state railway services have also resumed.
For the latest updates, TAT recommends travellers visit www.mots.go.th.
Songkran unaffected
In another positive update for Thai tourism, TAT and Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports announced that the country’s major Maha Songkran Festival will take place as scheduled.
The famous water festival will be held from early to mid-April across every region of Thailand.
DFAT advice
According to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), “there’s damage to some buildings and infrastructure in Bangkok and assessments are ongoing”.
“Check with your accommodation provider. There may be local transport disruptions. Avoid affected areas. If you’re in the area or planning to travel there, follow the advice of the local authorities and monitor local media updates,” it states on its Smartraveller website.
“Australians needing emergency consular assistance should contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas.”
Myanmar update
Following the quake, a state of emergency has been declared in Myanmar.
“There continues to be aftershocks. There’s significant damage to buildings, roads and infrastructure in Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw, as well as surrounding regions,” DFAT states.
“Yangon international airport remains operational, but Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw airports are closed to commercial aircraft.
Avoid affected areas and monitor media for updates. Australians needing emergency consular assistance should contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas.”
Overall, the Australian Government advises against travel to the Southeast Asian nation as “Violence, including explosions and attacks, can occur anywhere and anytime, including in Yangon”.
“We continue to advise do not travel to Myanmar. Attacks may be planned against locations that foreigners frequent, including public spaces and civilian infrastructure.
“Attacks are unpredictable in their location and intensity. Remain aware of the security environment at all times. Minimise movement, especially on anniversaries and days of national significance, and monitor media closely. There’ve been widespread detentions, including of foreigners.”
Australians may be at risk of arbitrary detention.
Intrepid appeal
Meanwhile, Intrepid Travel has launched an emergency appeal for Myanmar through The Intrepid Foundation in the wake of the devastating quake.
Donations will fund medical aid and relief efforts through a trusted local NGO, with Intrepid matching donations up to AU$100,000.
“The impact of the earthquake in Myanmar is severe. After years of ongoing civil war in the region, this earthquake proves devastating for the people and communities who were already facing a humanitarian crisis,” The Intrepid Foundation General Manager Biheng Zhang said.
“Although Intrepid does not currently run trips in Myanmar, the country continues to hold a special place in our heart. I appeal to the global travelling community – who may have been to Myanmar in the past or who have simply visited the region. Your support at these times can bring critical aid to the thousands of families at a time they need it the most.
“The most significant impacts of the earthquake were felt in Myanmar and Intrepid’s trips in neighbouring Thailand continue to run.”
