The Thai Government has imposed a 60-day State of Emergency in Bangkok and neighboring provinces, beginning on Wednesday January 22nd 2014, to cope with the political unrest and protests.

The emergency decree has been imposed in order to maintain peace and order as well as to provide safety and security for the general public, foreign visitors and the demonstrators, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

A statement from the organisation said: “It should be stressed that the emergency decree only covers Bangkok and some parts of nearby provinces as stated above and not any other destinations in Thailand. In addition, There is currently no curfew in place in Bangkok or any other parts of Thailand. Local residents and international visitors can continue to travel within Bangkok and other destinations in the country as usual.”

The major rally sites have blocked six downtown intersections and nearby streets – Pathumwan, Ratchaprasong, Silom (Lumpini Park), Latphrao, Asoke and the Victory Monument roundabout. Other major rally sites are at the Government Complex on Chaeng Wattana Road, Phan Fa Bridge on Ratchadamnoen Avenue and Chamai Maruchet Bridge on Phitsanulok Road.

The anti-government demonstrators’ daily marches may also cause traffic disruptions on other roads at certain times.

Tourists are still advised to be vigilant and avoid the demonstration areas for their own safety and security, however “it should be stressed that tourists have not been targeted in the ongoing anti-government demonstrations”.

In addition, despite the closure of major intersections and streets in downtown Bangkok, tourist and emergency vehicles are still allowed to pass freely.

Mr. Wit Kitchathorn, Thai Airways International (THAI) General Manager for UK & Ireland comments: “Thai Airways wishes to reassure all passengers / tourist’s travelling to Bangkok that Thailand’s capital remains a safe place to travel. Our advice would be to avoid any areas where protests are taking place.

“THAI is still operating a normal service throughout the demonstrations but we do suggest to all passengers to arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport at least four hours prior to their scheduled flight departure time.”
 
While the demonstrations are taking place in the central Bangkok areas, life in the most parts of the Thai capital and throughout Thailand continues as per normal, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand.