NEWS BANGKOK THAILAND

Deputy Bangkok Governor Jakkapan Phiewngam says the Green Bridge upgrade in Pathum Wan is 73.94% complete, behind plan due to fuel shortages and materials constraints. Contractors aim to open the 250-metre link informally by May 1, 2026, ahead of the May 11 contract end date.

Family Transport (2002), operator of Saen Saeb canal boats, will increase fares from 11-21 baht to 13-23 baht from March 30, 2026 after diesel B7 jumped 6 baht a litre to 38.94 baht, with another cost review due by April 6.

Chao Phraya Express Boat operator CPX says diesel costs of around 35 baht per litre, coupled with falling passenger numbers, are squeezing operations and could lead to route cuts or service stoppages unless costs ease.

Bangkok’s average PM2.5 measured 32 µg/m³ at 7.00am on March 17, 2026, within the 37.5 standard, but several districts exceeded the limit. The weather is forecast to be very hot, up to 36°C, with a 10% chance of thunderstorms.

Bangkok’s Air Quality Information Centre reported a citywide PM2.5 average of 32.7 µg/m³ at 7:00am on March 14, 2026, with the highest readings in Bang Rak, Prawet and Lat Krabang. The Meteorological Department expects hot conditions, with a high of 34-36°C and a 10% chance of thunderstorms.

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has announced “Phone Off, Learning On”, restricting mobile phones and electronic devices during lessons across 437 Bangkok Metropolitan Administration schools from the next academic year, citing learning, wellbeing and cyber-safety concerns.

The Bangkok Vendors Association says rising fuel, transport and ingredient costs could push street vendors to lift prices for made-to-order dishes by around 5 baht per menu item this month, as margins are squeezed.

Bangkok’s average PM2.5 reached 43.7 µg/m³ at 7.00am on March 13, 2026—above the 37.5 standard—while the BMA warned the heat index is at a “warning” level, urging people to limit outdoor activity.

Time Out has ranked Bangkok 8th best city globally for 2026 and second in Asia, while Chiang Mai placed 32nd worldwide and ninth in Asia—giving Thailand two cities on the list.

From street food and fine dining to culture, nightlife and warm hospitality, Bangkok has once again won over travellers across Asia.

Thailand’s Department of Health Service Support has inspected a Pathum Wan clinic after a 38-year-old man reportedly lost consciousness for days following cosmetic nose and chin surgery. Officials say the clinic is licensed, while findings will be forwarded for further legal review.

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt rolls out 2,800 hydration points and ‘Cooling Centres’ as the capital prepares for a heatwave lasting until mid-May

Makkasan police arrested 93 Vietnamese nationals at a Rama 9 condominium after uncovering an alleged Vietnam-focused online gambling operation, with investigators citing cashflow of more than 100 million baht per day.