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Military coup in Thailand

Thailand’s protestors ‘Shut Down’ Bangkok

Protest action paralyzing city's transport planned to span over 20 days

© AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn

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Bangkok protests leave Russians’ demand for trips to Thailand unaffected

BANGKOK, January 13. /ITAR-TASS/. Members of the Thai opposition plans to completely paralyze automotive transportation in Bangkok, home to several million people; activists demand immediate resignation of the current government and political reforms.

The Shut Down Bangkok protest action partially began on Sunday, January 12. Oppositionists have occupied at least three busy intersections in the city: they have erected barricades on the roadway using sandbags. One of the leaders of the opposition said that the ‘false start’ of the action, planned for January 13, was motivated by concern that the authorities could disrupt the event before it began as they knew about it beforehand.

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Demonstrators fire shots in Bangkok

The opposition expects the shutdown to last for 20 days. Seven key transportation hubs were chosen by demonstrators; they will also encircle over 20 buildings housing governmental bodies and will try to shut off power and water supply. If the shutdown succeeds, public transit will become the primary mode of transportation in the city: buses, subway and river taxis.

City authorities have announced increase in capacity with which municipal transport will work throughout the blockade. Thailand Airports company stated that an alternative route for passengers transiting through different Bangkok’s airports, has been created: representatives suggest using railway services. The opposition previously stated there were no plans to block operation of airports.

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