Caution ordered for fair in historical park

Ayutthaya - The Red Cross Fair's light and sound show, to be held from February 10-19 in the Ayutthaya historical park, will be sited 10 metres away from the world heritage site and there would be no firework lighting, Culture Minister Sukumol Kunplome said Tuesday.

A 10-metre section of Wat Mahathat's ancient wall collapsed after the devastating flood last year. Sukumol said the authority was finding Bt4 million to fix the wall, and is awaiting a full report from the Fine Arts Department. She has instructed the department to closely monitor the situation and find innovative construction and restoration methods to fix and strengthen the ancient sites.

As for the upcoming fair, Sukumol had discussed with the province ways to prevent further damage. They agreed to have the stage moved 10 metres away from the site while the speakers were also moved and turned outwards, she said.