“The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is considered one of the oldest and most beautiful traditions held on the island. The objective of the festival is to promote purity of the mind and body and to discourage any public nuisance,” said Phuket Vice Governor Chokdee Amornwat in a release issued yesterday (Sept 22).
In order to make, order, sell or even “import” of any fireworks during the festival required a permit from a local district office in Phuket, V/Gov Chokdee announced, in accordance with preserving the “traditional” sincerity of the festival.
“Also, large fireworks such as Ba Jang, ‘Chicken Eggs’ and rockets are banned during the festival,” he said.
Phuket Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Teeraphol Thipjaroen issued a notice that he had received the order and confirmed that police will enforce the ban.
“The only fireworks permitted during the festival are firecrackers. According to Section 47 of the Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives, Fireworks, and the Equivalent of Firearms Act BE 2490 (1947), the penalty for selling or setting off fireworks in public places without permission is between six months and five years in prison and/or a fine of up to B1,000 or both,” Gen Teeraphol said.
V/Gov Chokdee also urged the public to keep a safe eye on children when using fireworks.
“Safety first, and light firecrackers only where it is suitable to do so – and observe the law,” he said.
“Do not cause a nuisance or disturbance to others. If you find anyone disobeying the law, please notify your local district chief or call the police,” he added.
The ban on large fireworks announced yesterday follows the Tourism Authority Of Thailand (TAT) Phuket office announcing the release of the official programme of events for the upcoming Vegetarian Festival Friday (Sept 16). (See story here.)