Tiger time
Worshippers wearing tiger costumes join a two kilometre-long parade to pay homage to the Chinese deity Jao Por Thap in Samut Prakan on January 17.
Airport link
Phuket gets a new tram
A light rail system worth more than 2 billion baht will be constructed between Phuket International Airport and Chalong intersection to boost the country's tourism in the south, authorities said on January 17.
Transport permanent secretary Chartchai Thipsunawee unveiled details of a 60 kilometre rail tram which will have a top speed of 100 kilometres per hour and 23 stations along its route.
The Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA) will be commissioned to supervise the project, Chartchai said.
Water woes
Army battles against drought
The army has joined the government's new battle against drought by helping develop 30 kaem ling or catchment areas in five northeastern provinces to store water before it runs into the Mekong River.
The operation came after soldiers were asked by the Royal Irrigation Department to help expand and build areas to store water as part of state efforts to deal with a looming water shortage.
Army resources will be needed to make sure all 30 catchment areas are completed within the deadline.
EASY NEWS FOR M1-3
Purple train
Transport network expands
The Purple Line electric train will be officially launched on August 12. Officials reported the news on January 14. The line will be operated between Bang Sue in Bangkok and Bang Yai in Nonthaburi.
Vocabulary
- commission (v): to officially ask somebody to write, make or create something or to do a task for you
supervise (v): to be in charge of somebody or something and make sure that everything is done correctly or safely
catchment area (n): the area from which rain flows into a particular river or lake
