The Department of Disease Control (DDC) assures us that by the end of July, these havens for smokers will stand ready, with plans to kick off testing in August once all safety evaluations are completed. “The rooms must ensure no impact on other passengers,” emphasizes Dr. Chayanan Sitibut, Director of the Tobacco Product Control Division.
Currently, smokers are ushered towards designated zones positioned outside the terminal buildings. These are typically at exits and entrances, making it a tad inconvenient for the traveler with a time crunch. This lack of interior options has turned some travelers into stealthy—even if unintentional—lawbreakers, sneaking drags in restrooms and secretive nooks. This unapproved puffing not only breaks airport laws but also exposes innocent bystanders to unwanted secondhand smoke.
A special note goes out to the transit passengers, the real victims of this current set-up. Without the luxury of time to step outside, they’ve been left with virtually no option to satisfy their cravings. It’s their plight that has led the Airports of Thailand (AOT) to champion the cause for dedicated indoor smoking sanctuaries, thereby not just curbing illegal smoking, but also enhancing safety and overall traveler experience.
The grand plan? Introducing one smoking chamber in the SAT-1 terminal and another three on the fourth floor of the departure terminal. But don’t fret, outdoor smoking areas will persist on the second floor for those who fancy a breath of Bangkok’s ambient air with their cigarettes. Furthermore, the National Tobacco Products Control Committee offered their nod of approval, suggesting that future terminal designs across the country incorporate indoor smoking areas from the get-go.
On the matter of safety and design, Dr. Chayanan insists these won’t be your run-of-the-mill lounging areas. To avoid secondhand smoke issues, every room will have double doors, a negative air pressure system, and state-of-the-art ventilation. “The design will mirror quarantine rooms, prioritizing the health of all airport users,” he articulates. Once operational, rigorous monitoring will ensure the effectiveness and the faithful adherence by users, with results closely scrutinized for potential expansion to other Thai airports.
In the world of Thai news, it would seem there’s never a dull moment. Whether it’s a mob causing chaos at an Indian restaurant in Pattaya or a mum caught in a scandalous business involving a baby in a backpack, Thailand continues to be a hotspot buzzing with lively and sometimes eyebrow-raising happenings. Meanwhile, tourists in Patong deal with unexpected perils, and those who meddle with the wrong crowd might find themselves scammed or facing legal battles over joint ventures. It’s an exciting mix of stories, with Suvarnabhumi’s new indoor smoking rooms merely another chapter in the ever-unfolding beauty that is Thailand’s multifaceted narrative.
This is an absurd move! We’re encouraging smokers instead of promoting healthier airports. What’s next, a bar next to children’s playgrounds?
I disagree. It’s not about encouraging smoking, but rather managing it. Imagine an airport where people are puffing away in the toilets!
Managing smoking by giving them designated rooms feels like enabling to me. Education should be the key, not compromise.
Don’t get too upset. These rooms mean smokers don’t light up outside of designated areas, which ultimately benefits everyone’s health.
As a frequent traveler and smoker, I’d welcome this move. Airport stress is real, and quick access to a smoking room can be a lifesaver.
But don’t you think it’s a slippery slope? What’s the stopping point? Why not just ban smoking completely from social spaces?
Banning only leads to rebellion. It’s about realistic solutions. Smoking won’t disappear overnight.
Exactly, Mike. Completely banning it doesn’t work. Let’s focus on minimizing harm instead.
Secondhand smoke in confined areas is a danger. Despite the tech promises, are we really safe in the waiting areas?
The technology they’re talking about is solid. If designed right, there’s minimal leakage. Trust the engineers!
Minimal leakage isn’t no leakage. Close proximity to any smoke defeats its purpose. Remember, some people have allergies!
I do believe in the freedom of choice but not at the expense of public health. Was there any survey of passenger opinions?
FDA and health boards usually rely on research. However, passenger feedback is underrated and often untapped.
Smoking rooms are the least airports can do. Especially for transit passengers who can’t leave the terminal.
Why should a minority dictate the amenities? We should be demolishing these habits.
Dictate or not, it’s a matter of practicality for a global airport. When in Rome and all that.
Will these smoking rooms be compatible with vapers? Or are we leaving them out in the cold?
Good question! Vapes are practically smokeless. Why not allow them more freedom?
Promoting smoking in such spaces goes against modern health movements. Time to start thinking long-term.
Working inside these environments, any reduction in illegal smoking and disturbances will make our jobs easier.
I can’t even imagine working shifts with smokers ignoring rules. You have my sympathy.
All this effort for a dying practice? We shouldn’t be investing resources in this direction.
Until smoking is legally outlawed, this is just a sensible adaptation.
More like a step backward. We’ve come too far to start accommodating these habits again.
I feel for the families with kids who have to traverse near these rooms. What measure ensures they aren’t exposed?
Although the setup will be high standard, proximity is a valid concern. Spaces should be allocated far from high footfall zones.
Does anyone else see this as catering to tourists instead of protecting local health concerns?
Considering tourists are a major economy aspect for Thailand, it wouldn’t surprise me.
Will there be a special fee or access code? Or are they open to all nicotine lovers indiscriminately?
Good point. A small fee could fund the maintenance of these rooms.
Just a thought—more regions should consider ‘smoking passports’ where habitual countries have unified rules and structures.