THE INTERIOR MINISTRY has instructed all governors around the country to strictly control the popular but |dangerous practice of releasing floating lanterns and firing traditional rockets into the sky in their provinces.

"This trend has already caused fires, with social and economic losses. Also, they have posed a threat to aircraft in flight," permanent secretary Wiboon Sanguanpong said |yesterday.

Early this year, a floating lantern was found stuck on a plane.

Firemen at Chiang Mai International Airport in the North also told the media that 206 sky lanterns were collected from airport grounds during New Year's Eve and the following |morning.

Speedy passage

Wiboon said officials would have to communicate with members of the public to be sure they understood the risks and complied with laws related to the use of floating lanterns and traditional Thai rockets.

"Also, we will try to push for the speedy passage of the bill governing firearms, ammunition, explosives, fireworks and imitation firearms," he said.

His ministry's move was in line with an agreement that it signed with other government agencies on January 3 that focused on curbing the problem of lanterns and interference with aviation systems and local communities.

Among these agencies were the Transport, Defence, Sports and Tourism, Education and Culture ministries.

Supporting the agreement were the National Police Office and the Public Relations Department.

Govt orders tough stance on floating lanterns - The Nation