Lantern ban in 6 districts

Written by Writer on Tuesday, October 28th, 2008

CHIANG MAI

Lantern ban in 6 districts

The Transport Ministry has banned the floating of hot-air lanterns in six districts of Chiang Mai province to prevent aircraft accidents.

Transport Minister Santi Prompat said yesterday that authorities had agreed to ban the traditional releasing of lanterns into the sky in Mae Rim, San Sai, Muang, Hang Dong, San Patong and Saraphi districts, as they are in the flight path of aircraft using Chiang Mai airport.

Transport authorities will also ask people in the North where the tradition originated not to release floating lanterns before 9.30pm between Nov 11 and 14. The period covers Thailand’s Loy Krathong festival, when northerners traditionally release floating lanterns.

The Transport Ministry also requires people planning to release lanterns to seek approval from the authorities of local airports in advance.

There are already restrictions in place governing their size and use, the minister said.

They should not exceed 90 centimetres in diameter and 140 centimetres in height and their fuel must burn out within five minutes.

They must not be attached to any fireworks or other objects.

Bangkok Post
Tuesday October 28, 2008