Bangkok, Thailand -- The Public Health Ministry has
ordered public health offices throughout the country to coordinate with
police and other authorities to make sure the ban on thje sale of
alcohol is strictly observed on July 15 and 16, an important Buddhist
holiday.
Violators are liable to a six-month jail sentence and/or a 10,000 baht fine.
A Prime Minister's Office's order issued in 2009 bans sale of all kinds
of alcohol on four important days of for Buddhists - Makha Bucha Day,
Wisakha Bucha Day, Asanha Bucha Day and the Buddhist Lent Day.
This year, the Asanha Bucha Day and the Buddhist Lent Day fall on July 15 and 16.
Dr Siriwat Thiptaradol, the deputy permanent secretary for Public
Health, said the ban does not cover hotels which are properly
registered.