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Police

Family of Train-Bus Collision Victims Struggling to Accept Loss, Demanding Serious Solutions

Grieving families of train-bus collision victims are demanding accountability and systemic reforms from Thai Railways, criticizing the state agency's lack of responsibility and lax personnel screening that allowed drug-addicted employees to

4h ago Khaosod

On May 19, relatives of one victim, known as Paa Iang, collected documents from investigators at Makkasan Police Station to retrieve her body from the Police Hospital's Institute of Forensic Medicine for a merit-making ceremony at Naam Daeng Temple in Samut Prakan Province.

The family expressed concern about compensation amounts but remained more disturbed by the State Railway of Thailand's defensive responses about personnel management rather than offering assistance or taking responsibility. They questioned why the bus driver parked across the railway tracks and called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances.

Another victim's father, Santi Kheeowvijit, whose son Thanatphipat was on the bus just three stops away from his destination, collected documents to bring his son's body for religious ceremonies at Khlong Nueng Temple in Pathum Thani Province. He revealed that his son was only 19 years old and would have graduated next year, with dreams of becoming an app developer.

Santi criticized both the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority and State Railway of Thailand for organizational failures, noting that while the transit authority showed concern and assistance, Thai Railways showed no apologies whatsoever. He severely condemned Thai Railways' lax personnel screening system that allowed drug-addicted employees to operate trains, and rejected their claims that the train was operating normally when the bus blocked the tracks—arguing that railways bear responsibility for their own personnel systems.

Santi emphasized that public transportation should be the safest system and that no compensation could ever be worthwhile for losing his young son with a promising future.

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Weather

Royal Irrigation Department Continues Water Situation Monitoring Ahead of 2025 Monsoon Season

Thailand's Royal Irrigation Department reports major reservoirs at 57% capacity as of May 19, ahead of the upcoming monsoon season, with rainfall running 27% below normal nationwide.

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The Smart Water Operations Center (SWOC) under the Royal Irrigation Department reported that as of May 19, 2025, major and medium-sized reservoirs nationwide contain approximately 43,621 million cubic meters of water—57% of their total capacity—with additional storage capacity of 33,133 million cubic meters available. The four key dams in the Chao Phraya River Basin (Bhumibol, Sirikit, Khwae Noi Bhumrung Dam, and Pasak Cholasit dams) hold 13,483 million cubic meters of water, representing 54% of combined capacity, with 11,388 million cubic meters of additional capacity remaining.

As of 6 a.m. on the reporting date, water flow at the C.2 measurement station in Nakhon Sawan reached 563 cubic meters per second. Combined with flows from the Sakae Krang River and tributary streams, the total water volume managed above Chao Phraya Dam stands at 577 cubic meters per second, distributed to various irrigation systems as follows: Eastern region receives 189 cubic meters per second (69%) and Western region receives 258 cubic meters per second (55%).

The remaining water released through Chao Phraya Dam maintains a continuous rate of 130 cubic meters per second with no adverse impact on downstream areas. Current rainfall monitoring shows that from January 1 to May 17, 2025, the nation received 212.4 millimeters of rain—78.8 millimeters below normal, representing a 27% deficit. Multiple regions experienced below-normal rainfall, particularly the Eastern Southern region (49% below normal) and Central region (41% below normal). To prepare for potential impacts on residents and farmers, the Royal Irrigation Department continues closely monitoring rainfall and water flow, implementing comprehensive water management plans to maximize benefits while adapting to changing weather and rainfall patterns throughout the season. The department is readying machinery and equipment to assist flood-prone areas during the monsoon and strictly implementing 2025 monsoon season preparedness measures as directed by Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Suryya Juengrungruangkit to minimize impacts on communities.

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Police

Transport Deputy Minister Says Man Struck by Train Due to Trespassing in Railway Zone; Eyes Elevated Rail System to Address Crossing Hazards

A man was struck by a Bangkok-Chachoengsao commuter train near Makkasan-Khlong Toei station after trespassing into the railway zone. Transport Deputy Minister Siripong Angkhaskulgiat said the ministry is studying an elevated rail system to

4h ago Khaosod

At 12:40 p.m. on May 19, 2025, at Government House, Transport Deputy Minister Siripong Angkhaskulgiat held a press conference following a cabinet meeting regarding the incident where Bangkok-Chachoengsao commuter train No. 367 struck a man near Makkasan-Khlong Toei station. He explained this case differed from previous incidents as it occurred on the main track rather than at a junction, despite barriers being in place. The man had trespassed into the restricted railway zone to use a toilet, resulting in the collision. While expressing sympathy, the deputy minister emphasized that railway tracks are not safe for anyone and that legal procedures must be followed.

Siripong noted the train was traveling at normal speed in a non-junction area and the incident happened too suddenly for the train to stop. He urged the public to exercise caution around railway tracks. Regarding concerns that a three-month suspension of trains in inner Bangkok might affect commuter rail users, he stated that the Transport Ministry has given SRT two months to develop a plan with a three-month review period.

The deputy minister clarified this is not a new issue but rather an ongoing study of previous complaints. He emphasized the ministry's principle is to elevate the entire rail system, similar to the Bang Sue-Rangsit line, which has proven effective in solving traffic problems. If elevated crossings are built in the future, the system will be fully elevated. He stressed that no official plan has been submitted yet and all voices must be heard. This proposal remains in the study phase at SRT.

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Community

Da Endorphine Delivers at 'DA ENDORPHINE UPSTAGE Cheeky Concert' - Transforms Venue Into Giant Karaoke Hall of Memories

Da Endorphine transformed Royal Paragon Hall in Ayutthaya into a massive sing-along experience on May 16-17, 2025, with special guests including Christina Aguilera and Bodyslam bringing nostalgic hits to over three hours of emotional perfor

4h ago Khaosod

Da Endorphine delivered unforgettable moments at 'DA ENDORPHINE UPSTAGE Cheeky Concert,' transforming the hall into a nostalgic karaoke space where fans sang every song. If 'concert' seems too ordinary, this was a 'generational reunion phenomenon.' The 'DA ENDORPHINE UPSTAGE Cheeky Concert' turned Royal Paragon Hall into a massive karaoke room and a powerhouse of nostalgia for over three hours on May 16-17, 2025, under the direction of CHANGEshowbiz's concert maven Chod Saithip Montrikul at Ayutthaya, who paid meticulous attention to every detail of this premium production—from sound and lighting to the grandly designed stage reaching every fan in every seat. This special event featured not only Da Endorphine's greatest hits that had the entire hall singing along, but also brought out 'cheeky special guests' who grew up alongside the band through different eras, creating non-stop excitement. These included the Queen of Dance Christina Aguilera, the iconic diva of the 90s, in a 'mom meets mom' moment with dance steps that shook the stage; Off Pongsak, a quality-voiced singer who delivered emotional depth clashing with Da's power; Joey Bhuwasit, a smooth artist who unexpectedly clicked with Da across different eras; and the surprise guest Toon Bodyslam, rock music legend, whose brief appearance sent screams throughout the hall. Every show, every song, every moment was designed to trigger fans' 'release of happiness hormones,' living up to the 'UPSTAGE Cheeky Concert' concept. This wasn't merely Da Endorphine's comeback, but a journey taking everyone back to embrace their own memories with full hearts. The night exploded from the first second when Da Endorphine's powerful vocals hit the opening song 'Cheeky,' instantly triggering fans' endorphin rush at maximum capacity. The energy peaked unexpectedly when the show broke concert tradition by featuring all special guests—Tina, Off Pongsak, Joey Bhuwasit, and Toon Bodyslam—friends, older sister, and close brother, in the song 'This Life Will Be Short Until Death,' igniting the entire hall's adrenaline. Because this was Da Endorphine's concert—artists who know their fans best—they filled the playlist with songs fans had requested from the previous concert, performed at full intensity for singalongs without pause. Songs from both their original catalog and covers like 'Time to Listen,' 'Written in My Heart, Sung in a Song,' 'Want to Hear You Say You Love Me,' 'Don't Do This,' 'Not Loving is Good,' and 'Preserve Your Rights' transformed the entire hall into a space where close friends released their emotions singing loudly together to soothe their longing. When quality-voiced singer Off Pongsak appeared on stage, the entire hall shifted into deep dramatic mode instantly through the song 'Stabbed from Behind Piercing Through the Heart.' Off and Da then alternated releasing powerful vocal duels song after song without compromise through 'From an Old Lover,' 'Won't Ask So I'll Give,' 'This Man Is Running Out of Strength,' and 'You Have Me, Who Do I Have,' where both conveyed emotions so deeply that every lyric hurt. When they entered 'Take Care of Him Well,' the stage emotions peaked—their voices, gazes, and inner power delivered straight to fans' hearts at full force, causing many to sing along at the top of their lungs.

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Police

Military Detains Imam from Ban Gaae Village for Interrogation at Khao Tan Yang Camp

Military forces detained Imam Manaseh from Ban Gaae village in Narathiwat's Chanae district on May 19 for interrogation at an army camp, with no charges or specific allegations disclosed.

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Narathiwat — On May 19, 2025, joint military operations in Narathiwat coordinated an integrated security task force to search the residence of Imam Manaseh (surname withheld) in the Ban Gaae area, Dusongyo subdistrict, Chanae district, Narathiwat province, to bring him in for interrogation and legal proceedings. All operations were conducted according to principles of caution, transparency, and respect for fundamental human rights.

During the operation, local leaders, community figures, and religious leaders from the area observed the procedures closely to build public confidence and ensure the transparency and integrity of the operation. Following his detention, authorities conducted a medical examination at Narathiwat Rajanagarindra Hospital, recorded initial statements at Tan Yang Police Station in Narathiwat, and transferred him to an interrogation center at the 46th Ranger Task Force unit of the Royal Thai Army in accordance with legal procedures.

Authorities brought Imam Manaseh, the religious leader from Ban Gaae village, Moo 5, Dusongyo subdistrict, Chanae district, Narathiwat province, to Khao Tan Yang camp for further questioning.

Manaseh holds significant religious, educational, and social roles in the community, serving as imam of Ban Gaae village mosque, advisor to the Madani Youth Club in Dusongyo subdistrict, president of the Ta Dee Ka Club in Dusongyo, vice president of the Imam Mosque Club in Chanae district, and treasurer of the Chanae Education Foundation.

Authorities have not yet disclosed details regarding the reasons or specific allegations related to his detention and interrogation. Local residents and those close to him are closely monitoring developments in the case.

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Community

Boy-Peeth Delivers an Unforgettable 'PEACEMAKER THE RE:PEACE' Concert After 23 Years

Legendary Thai duo Peacemaker reunited after 23 years for an emotionally charged two-night concert at UOB Live in May 2026, delivering classic hits and special guest performances that moved both artists and fans to tears.

4h ago Khaosod

Laughter and tears filled the hall as Boy-Peeth treated devoted fans to 'PEACEMAKER THE RE:PEACE CONCERT 2026,' bringing complete happiness after a 23-year wait. The legendary duo—Boy Anuwat Songwansaksatpakdi and Peeth Peerawat Asvavochirwit—held their grand concert on May 16-17, 2026 at UOB Live, Emsphere, produced by Master Peeth & Co. Ltd, delivering complete satisfaction through artistic production, stunning lighting, live vocals, and meticulously designed performances in every scene and song.

Both Boy and Peeth held nothing back, treating fans to their classic Peacemaker hits including 'I Miss You,' 'She's Mine,' 'Don't Even Think,' 'Until Heaven Has Time,' 'What Am I Worth,' 'I Never Asked,' and 'Excess.' Following heartfelt interactions with fans, they performed solo sets, including Boy's dramatic entrance from a floating mini-stage descending to the center and Peeth's intimate performance.

The show featured special highlights including a mashup performance where both singers performed their own songs simultaneously, with intricate musical direction by Jak Chawwin, who also surprised audiences with a guitar solo performed from the control booth. Guest appearances ranged from Pat Wai Klai, Ja Nong Panee, Nai Naphatt, and Pop Ponggul with Ott Pramoht—who delivered a sultry rendition of 'I'm Lonely'—to legendary Poo Pongsit joining them for an emotional duet.

Boy closed out the fun segment with an unprecedented dance performance, dancing intimately with fans in all sections before ending with emotional Peacemaker classics like 'The Last,' 'Lonely,' and 'I Miss You.' As fans sang in unison with overwhelming force, Boy was moved to tears by the profound love and longing the audience conveyed.

PEACEMAKER THE RE:PEACE CONCERT 2026 was more than just a nostalgia-filled evening—it was a night that perfectly fulfilled the hearts of both artists and music lovers through genuine love, longing, and giving. With 50 baht from each ticket contributing to a charitable cause, the concert helped support newborn patients at Thammasat University Hospital's neonatal fund, bringing hope to families.

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Community

Chatchayavat Posts Farewell to True Bangkok After Four Years, Says He Was Very Happy with the Team

Thai striker Chatchayavat Srirnawong has left True Bangkok United after four years, thanking the team and fans for their support in an emotional farewell post.

4h ago Khaosod

Chatchayavat Srirnawong, a Thai striker for True Bangkok United, has posted a farewell message to the club, thanking fans and wishing the team success. The 33-year-old forward joined True Bangkok from Samut Prakan City in 2023 before recently announcing his departure. In his post, Chatchayavat expressed that over the past four years he was delighted and very happy with the club. He thanked his teammates and all the fans who continuously supported and cheered him on, hopes to see everyone again in the future, and wishes True Bangkok success in achieving their goals. He also asked fans to continue following him.

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National

Urgent! Cabinet Approves October 16 as Special Holiday in Bangkok; Three Days of Work-from-Home for Government Employees, Private Sector Urged to Cooperate

Thailand's Cabinet declared October 16 a special holiday in Bangkok and ordered government work-from-home for three days to ease traffic during the World Bank and IMF annual meetings expected to draw over 15,000 global finance leaders.

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Government spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek announced on May 19, 2026, that the Cabinet approved the restructuring of a national-level committee to prepare for the 2026 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund. October 16 will be declared a special government holiday exclusively in Bangkok. Bangkok government agencies will operate remotely on October 12, 14, and 15. State enterprises, financial institutions, educational institutions, and private businesses in areas surrounding the conference venue are asked to implement appropriate measures suited to their locations and operations. Agencies with essential services or pre-scheduled public appointments may continue operations if cancellation would cause harm or service disruption. These measures aim to alleviate traffic congestion, facilitate travel, and ensure maximum security. The meetings are expected to draw over 15,000 finance ministers, central bank governors, and global leaders from 190 countries to exchange views on global economic and financial challenges.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

War Impact Exceeds Expectations; GDP Target Maintained at 1.2-1.6% as Energy Restructuring Investment Proposed

Middle East conflict is dampening Thailand's economic outlook, with the business sector revising 2025 GDP growth to 1.2-1.6% and calling for accelerated renewable energy investment to reduce oil import dependence.

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Pimjai Leeissaranukul, chairman of the Thai Industrial Confederation (FTI), chaired a meeting of the Joint Private Sector Committee bringing together three major business organizations alongside Pojanachai Aramwattananont of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and Vorakrit Charuwongpuk, secretary-general of the Thai Bankers Association.

Pimjai revealed that the Middle East conflict has dragged into its third month with no visible end in sight. The Strait of Hormuz remains unable to resume normal operations, while energy infrastructure damaged by recent attacks requires extended repair periods. Concerns about physical damage continue to keep energy prices elevated.

Economic impacts from supply shortages are already visible in the aviation sector, affecting tourists traveling on flights from the Middle East to Thailand. Given the unpredictable situation in the Middle East, risks to Thailand's economy may be higher than apparent. The committee therefore projects Thailand's 2025 GDP growth at 1.2-1.6%, with exports declining between -1.5% and -0.5%, and inflation rising to 2-3%, up from previous forecasts of 0.2-0.7%.

The economy faces continued challenges requiring monitoring of Middle East conflict impacts on raw material prices and business sector supply shortages, which could develop into new problems. Thailand should accelerate investment in energy restructuring, increase renewable energy production, reduce dependence on oil and gas imports, and expedite investments under the Reinvent Thailand initiative to support future economic growth.

The committee agreed to present proposals to the Prime Minister and Labor Minister for rapid consideration and implementation. Thailand's first quarter 2025 economy grew 2.8%, though gains concentrated in specific sectors, driven by strong private investment, accelerated public spending, and robust export growth in digital technology and AI products—tech exports expanded over 45% with 12 consecutive quarters of growth. However, exports remain concentrated and haven't broadly benefited manufacturing sectors.

The Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council, Commerce Ministry, and the committee's estimates project Brent crude oil averaging $90.3 per barrel this year, with domestic fuel prices floating, inflation's lower bound at 2%, and an expected 50% reduction in oil excise tax from current rates.

Pimjai further called on the government to urgently address severe labor shortages in labor-intensive industries, balancing security, economic, and social dimensions. The committee views the government should accelerate both short and medium-term labor measures, with foreign worker permit renewals for current residents and workers constituting essential immediate action to prevent workforce loss from the system.

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Police

Barcode Ballot Case Postponed Again: Court Sets August 11 Hearing for Eight Election Commission Officials

Eight Election Commission officials face a rescheduled court hearing on August 11 over accusations they added unnecessary barcodes to ballot cards in a scheme that allegedly compromised voting confidentiality and inflated printing costs.

4h ago Khaosod

The Special Criminal Criminal Court has postponed the indictment hearing for eight Election Commission (EC) officials in the ballot barcode case for the second time after the EC submitted clarifications and supporting evidence. The hearing was originally scheduled for May 19, 2569 at the Special Criminal Court on Railway Lane. The case, docket number Ot. 31/2569, was filed by attorney Yongyut Saowkaewsathit against EC Chairman Niran Kalawarintr and seven other officials.

The accused face charges of official misconduct or corruption under Criminal Code Section 157, read with the Election Commission Act B.E. 2562 Section 83, the House of Representatives Election Act B.E. 2561 Section 149, and the Anti-Corruption Act B.E. 2561 Section 172. According to the charges, all eight officials allegedly conspired to order the addition of QR codes to green ballot cards for constituency elections and barcodes to pink ballot cards for party-list elections, allegedly intended for verification purposes in a manner that lacked integrity and transparency. The plaintiff claims this unnecessary addition increased printing costs and compromised the confidentiality of the voting process.

During today's hearing, the court informed the plaintiff that the EC office had submitted written clarifications along with supporting evidence. The plaintiff was given 15 days to review the documentation and file any rebuttals, with failure to respond considered acceptance. The court has rescheduled the judgment hearing to August 11, 2569 at 9:30 a.m. This marks the second postponement; the hearing was previously moved from March 17 to May 19 before being delayed again to August.

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Community

News Update: Commemorative Medal for Luang Pho Ruay's Ecclesiastical Rank - Wat Tako

Luang Pho Ruay Pasatiko, a revered Buddhist monk from Wat Tako, was honored with commemorative medals marking his ecclesiastical advancement in 1970, becoming famous nationwide for his amulets and spiritual guidance before his death in 2017

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Luang Pho Ruay Pasatiko, also known as Phra Mongkolsitthajarn, was a distinguished Buddhist monk and scholar from Wat Tako in Don Yai Nang subdistrict, Pachi district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, renowned for his expertise in Buddhist scripture and meditation. Born in December 1907 to parents Mi and Sinla Sritit, he grew up like typical rural children, helping his parents with agriculture and animal husbandry. At age 16, he ordained at Wat Tako under Phra Somulbunchuy and dedicated himself to studying Buddhist doctrine, eventually achieving first-class ecclesiastical academic certification.

At age 20 in 1941, he received his full ordination at Wat Tako with Phra Kru Sunthorathammawidit (Luang Pho Chuean) as his preceptor. He continued his studies in Buddhist texts and by 1944 had achieved advanced academic ranks. After completing his doctrinal studies, he turned his attention to meditation practice and sought instruction from renowned masters including Luang Pho Chuean of Wat Pachi and Luang Pho Chaem of Wat Daeng Nuea, who generously shared their knowledge of Buddhist mystical sciences.

He served as abbot of Wat Tako from 1949 and as district sangha leader from 1953. Known for his strict adherence to monastic discipline, simple lifestyle, and equal compassion for all who sought his blessings regardless of social class, he became a leading ecclesiastical figure. His amulets and sacred objects, particularly his wriststrings and talismans, were highly sought after for their spiritual power. In 2015, he was honored with an ecclesiastical rank of Phra Ratchakana (third class) and given the title Phra Mongkolsitthajarn.

He produced amulets beginning before 1969, with significant production from 1970 onward across many batches that became highly popular and valuable. As a leading national monk, he was regularly invited to preside over amulet consecration ceremonies. His name, considered auspicious, led believers to trust that those who made merit with him would prosper. He passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 19, 2017, at Vichaiyut Hospital in Bangkok at age 95 after 75 years of monastic life.

His most renowned amulets are his wriststrings, but equally popular are his first-edition medals created on April 18, 1970, commemorating his elevation to the ecclesiastical rank of Phra Kru Sannyabat (second class). The medal features a relief portrait and bears an inscription with his name.

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