The Stop-Drink Network Thailand has raised strong objections to a new regulation that permits alcohol sales at major international airports during Thai religious holidays. Teera Watcharapranee, the network’s manager, criticized the move, emphasizing the impact on five significant Buddhist holidays. The National Committee on Alcohol Beverage Policy has approved measures allowing alcohol sales at all six major airports operated by Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) during these religious days. This affects Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai airports, allowing alcohol sales on Asarnha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Makha Bucha, Buddhist Lent, and the end of Buddhist Lent days.
Teera contended that this decision aligns with a broader, profit-driven government agenda, which includes relaxing alcohol restrictions and extending bar hours until 4 AM. Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, who presided over the committee meeting, suggested the move is aimed at generating additional income from travelers. However, the policy’s implementation date remains undecided as it awaits amendments to a related announcement by the Prime Minister’s Office.
Teera referenced studies by Dr. Kamnuan Ungchusak, chair of the Working Group under the Alcohol Beverage Control Committee, highlighting that longer bar hours correlate with increased accidents and fatalities. He underscored the significant health and social consequences of treating alcohol like any other product. Furthermore, Teera pointed out the broader public health implications, noting that approximately 1.8 million people in Thailand require treatment for alcohol-related issues, and over 20,000 deaths are annually attributed to alcohol-related accidents and illnesses.
Teera argued that such policies aim to attract tourists but incur high social costs. He cited Sweden’s strict alcohol sales bans on Sundays as an example of prioritizing public health and safety. The committee has also postponed a proposal from the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) to resume alcohol sales at railway stations and on trains. This suggestion will undergo further examination to assess its economic viability and public health impacts. The SRT has banned alcohol sales at its facilities and onboard since 2015, following an incident where a former employee assaulted a passenger after consuming alcohol.
The Stop-Drink Network also expressed concern about potential future expansions of this policy. The State Railway of Thailand has proposed allowing alcohol sales at train stations and on trains to boost domestic tourism. Teera referred to a tragic 2014 incident where a railway officer, intoxicated, assaulted and killed a young girl on a Surat Thani to Bangkok train, which led to stricter alcohol controls in such settings.
As the debate continues, the Stop-Drink Network and various advocacy groups are calling for a re-evaluation of the policy, prioritizing societal well-being over financial gains. The issue has garnered significant attention, with numerous officials and public figures attending meetings and discussions on the matter.
