Wear a mask outside, Thailand, or pay THB20,000 (or maybe do pushups)

Faced with a surge in COVID-19 deaths – 11 in recent days – nearly 50 provinces nationwide including Bangkok have mandated mask-wearing in public and imposed a hefty THB20,000 (US$636) fine for violators.

Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Chiang Mai, Chonburi and Phuket are among the 48 provinces nationwide so far to threaten to fine anyone who goes unmasked outside their residences. 

On Saturday, a few motorcycle taxi riders in Nonthaburi province were busted by cops for not wearing masks. They told police they didn’t have THB20,000 to pay, so they were ordered to do pushups on the spot, instead. 

Effective yesterday through at least May 2, closing time moved up an hour at most retali outlets. All shopping malls and department stores in Bangkok and 17 other “red zone” provinces will only open 11am to 8pm, while food sellers within and without may remain open until…