Visitors to six zoos can marvel at animals for free until end June
In a move to boost local tourism, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa instructed the Zoological Park Association on Friday (June 12) to open six zoos and waive entry fees from June 15 to 30.
In line with the third-phase easing of lockdown measures, the government announced on June 1 that zoos could reopen provided visitors made reservations beforehand.
“The six zoos that will waive entry fee during the said period are the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi as well as those in Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima, Songkhla, Khon Kaen and Ubon Ratchathani,” he said. “All staff and visitors are required to strictly adhere to measures put in place to curb the Covid-19 contagion.”
The measures in place are:
- Tickets must be reserved via telephone or mobile app;
- Visitors must be screened using thermal scanners at all entrances;
- Visitors must check in and out using the ThaiChana platorm;
- Social distancing must be maintained in all areas of the zoo;
- Alcohol gel dispensers must be provided in crowded areas;
- Visitors will only be allowed see animals displayed in open areas;
- All indoor activities, including animal shows, will be cancelled to avoid public gatherings.
“Only 2,000 visitors will be allowed per day to facilitate social-distancing practices,” Varawut said. “During the lockdown period, I had instructed all zoos to undergo a big clean to promote sanitation and ensure the safety of visitors when they open.”