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In view of the flooding situation in Bangkok and other provinces, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today (October 25) has raised the Outbound Travel Alert (OTA) for Thailand (flood-hit areas including Bangkok) to red. Residents intending to visit these areas should consider adjusting their travel plans and avoid non-essential travel to areas seriously affected by flooding. Those who are already there should pay attention to announcements by local authorities, particularly on developments of the flooding situation, exercise caution and attend to their personal safety.
According to the Thai authorities, 28 provinces have been affected by flooding. The local authorities have opened some floodgates in northern Bangkok to drain the floodwater. Some districts of Bangkok are experiencing flooding. Flooded areas may face disruptions to fresh water and electricity supplies and transport services, bringing inconvenience to travellers. The local authorities have declared October 27 to 31 special holidays in some provinces including Bangkok. Hong Kong residents should monitor the developments closely during this period.
At present, Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport is operating normally. Airline services from Bangkok to Hong Kong remain normal. Hong Kong residents in Thailand who need assistance may call the 24-hour hotline of the Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit of the Immigration Department at (852) 1868 or contact the Chinese Embassy in Thailand (Tel.: 66-854833327).
Residents may obtain details from the Security Bureau's OTA webpage (www.sb.gov.hk/eng/ota).
The Security Bureau will continue to closely monitor the situation and issue updates through the media and the OTA webpage.
Ends/Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Issued at HKT 19:40
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