Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will allow some “non-essential” businesses and public venues to reopen in May after the month-long city-wide lockdown which is expected to lift on 30 April.
Pongsakorn Kwanmuang, BMA spokesperson has announced the City Hall has accepted the initial plan to ease the lockdown allowing eight categories of businesses and venues, including restaurants, markets, exercise venues, public parks, barbers and hair salons, pet clinic, health clinic and golf course, to open.
Restaurants will be allowed to open for dine-in service but must arrange a 1.5-meter distance between seats and will be prohibited from serving alcoholic beverages. Markets and flea markets can now open as usual.
Sports facilities and public parks can now reopen. However, team sports such as basketballs and footballs are prohibited. The ease of lockdown does not apply to fitness studios. Gathering in big groups is restricted in the public park.
Hair salons can only provide haircutting, blow-drying, and hair-washing. Pet grooming service can cater to one animal per one owner.
The date of the ease of lockdown to be enforced will be announced later by the Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration.