The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is taking bold steps to shake things up on its tracks. In a spirited move, they plan to propose the lifting of the current ban on alcohol sales on trains at the upcoming Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee meeting. Circle February 21 on your calendar because, on that day, discussions will be flowing just as smoothly as a cold, refreshing beverage. Previously, the committee under the Public Health Ministry took a hard stance against the idea, citing more risks than benefits. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, leading the charge, noted that earlier research echoed concerns over potential negative impacts, tamping down the proposal like a corked bottle of champagne. Yet, undeterred, the SRT is ready to pop the cork on a plan to invigorate local tourism, especially with a tipple-tantalizing proposal for tourist train services. Seeking exemptions at train stations and on the rumbling rails themselves, they argue this move could be the key to boosting travel and local economies.
Enter Doctor Udomsak Sae-Ngow, a prudent scholar at the Centre of Alcohol Studies, who unearthed some revealing statistics. A comprehensive survey conducted in August last year spanned an impressive array of 3,055 train passengers across 25 stations. The outcomes were sobering, though, with 80% of occasional drinkers and 67% of regular drinkers opposing the alcohol sales revival. Their voices raised concerns over travel safety, potential public disorder, and incidents of untoward behavior such as sexual harassment. A staggering 86% of respondents couldn’t shake the haunting memory of the 2017 tragedy involving the horrific crime against a 13-year-old passenger, a pivotal event that fast-tracked the current ban. Photo courtesy of My-Thai.org
Thirapat Khahawong, a passionate coordinator of a network dedicated to minimizing alcohol-related harm, isn’t holding back his criticisms. He implores the committee to put public health in the front seat over what he views as the intoxicating allure of economic gain via alcohol-fueled ventures. Khahawong expressed frustration at the government’s tendency to lean on alcohol sales as a crutch for economic stimulation, given the societal hangover it tends to leave in its wake, at least according to reports from the Bangkok Post.
While the railways carve out their next move, another regulatory storm is brewing as hotels and businesses, the lifeblood of the hospitality industry, lobby to abolish the 2-5pm alcohol sales ban. A relic enacted in 1972 intended to keep civil spirits undisturbed during work hours now seems out of touch with the times. The Thai Alcohol Beverage Business Association steps into the ring, advocating for the lifting of restrictions, including those on religious holidays. With Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra at the helm, directives to overhaul restrictive measures offer a glimmer of opportunity. Such a shift could usher in a treasure trove of 50 billion baht, with the potential to double, benefiting those in the tourism, hospitality, and entertainment realms—boosting livelihoods from contract drivers to waitstaff, to the tune of jubilant musicians.
So, as Thailand stands on the cusp of change, eyes are trained on the horizon, mapping out a journey where tradition meets innovation. Whether it’s through a glass of wine on train travels, or by embracing modern standards in business, Thailand’s story continues to evolve, chapter by chapter, and drop by drop.
I think it’s a terrible idea to lift the alcohol ban on trains. Public safety should always come first. We’ve had incidents in the past, and there’s no guarantee that history won’t repeat itself.
But what about the positive impact on tourism? A glass of wine could make train journeys more enjoyable and attract more visitors.
Tourism shouldn’t come at the cost of safety. There are other ways to make train journeys appealing without introducing risks.
Train rides are already enjoyable. Alcohol isn’t necessary. Have you thought about how uncomfortable it could be sitting next to a drunk passenger?
Lifting the ban sounds good economically, but will the sales actually contribute that much to local economies?
Every little bit helps. If more people choose trains over other transport options, it could lead to more business for local stations.
We should study similar moves in other countries first to see if the economic gain really offsets potential drawbacks.
Considering the past incidents, shouldn’t we focus on other changes like improving train schedules or facilities instead?
Train facilities are definitely a priority, but revenue from alcohol sales might fund those improvements.
Improving services typically costs more than the profit from sales. We need targeted investment, not risky ventures.
As someone who uses trains frequently, I think a controlled sale of alcohol might improve the experience. Most passengers are responsible.
But it’s about those who aren’t responsible that concerns most of us.
Agreed, why not just add an extra security measure to monitor sales and prevent misuse?
Alcohol-induced behavior can lead to harassment and crime. Is no one worried about that?
Those are valid concerns. We need stricter laws and enforcement if this goes ahead.
Sometimes regulations overstep. It’s crucial to strike a balance between freedom of choice and safety.
@GreenEyes, proper oversight is key. These issues arise due to lack of enforcement, not just the presence of alcohol.
This is all about money. Governments shouldn’t prioritize profit over the well-being of citizens.
True, government policy should reflect public interest, not just economic gain.
Remember that relaxation, like having a drink, could tremendously enhance the travel experience.
There are plenty of ways to relax without potentially endangering others. It’s about responsible enjoyment.
I oppose this. The idea of sharing a journey with rowdy passengers is distressing to me.
Focus on sustainable travel and eco-friendly initiatives instead of encouraging alcohol consumption for quick profits.
If alcohol sales are introduced, it should only be for first-class passengers where there’s more control.
Let’s think long term. Quick fixes like this often lead to unintended consequences down the line.
Why not introduce special ‘party carriages’ with alcohol, music, and strict entry requirements?
While the economic argument is appealing, the lesson from past incidents should remind us of our priorities.
Perhaps a registered drink pass linked to ID could control who buys alcohol?
That’s an interesting idea, but how would that be enforced without invading privacy?
This is moving backwards, not forwards. Let’s focus on alternative comforts!
I’ve seen similar systems work in Europe. Maybe we can adopt a similar model?