July 15, 2026, 08:57July 15, 2026, 08:57
Thailand’s government wants to fundamentally revise the regulations for entertainment venues after the devastating fire in a bar in Bangkok that killed 30 people. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced that he would comprehensively review laws on permits, operating hours and location requirements. The Bangkok Post newspaper quoted him as saying that many of the current rules are outdated. Anutin also blamed operators’ greed for profit for many problems in the industry.
There was a devastating fire in this bar.Image: keystone
Bangkok is one of the most visited cities in the world and is considered a party metropolis, but there have been several serious accidents like the one on Monday night. The fire at the Rong Beer Na Ladprao pub in the popular Chatuchak district broke out suddenly while a live band was playing. According to initial findings, it could have been triggered by a short circuit in an air conditioning unit above the ceiling.
For many guests there was no escape from the sea of flames and smoke. More than two dozen dead were found that night. Around 70 people were injured, more than 20 of them seriously. Some succumbed to their injuries later.
Nationwide controls ordered
After the disaster, the government ordered nationwide inspections of entertainment venues and public buildings. Within 30 days, authorities led by the Ministry of the Interior should check fire protection systems, emergency exits, the number of visitors permitted and compliance with safety regulations. Businesses with significant deficiencies should be closed for the time being until the concerns are addressed.
At the same time, Anutin emphasized that many problems arise not because of inadequate laws, but because operators ignore regulations in order to achieve higher profits. After the latest disaster, investigators are investigating, among other things, whether employees locked exits to prevent guests from leaving the restaurant without paying their bill. There are also indications of blocked escape routes and a lack of fire protection.
Possible legal action against pub operators
According to previous findings, the venue, known for live music, was licensed as a restaurant, but was apparently operated as an entertainment venue. The investigators are checking whether this circumvented stricter approval and safety requirements. Criminal action may be taken against the operator and his business partners. (hkl/sda/dpa)