THE government this afternoon (Jan. 7) clarified that an earlier announcement by the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) on it being compulsory for everyone to download MorChana application or face legal action only applies to those who have smartphones or other phones that can download it with those who do not entitled to submit their travel plans when checked, Siam Rath newspaper reported.
However at 4 p.m. today Dr. Taweesilp Visanuyothin, CCSA’s spokesman, posted a message that the use of MorChana app is being strictly imposed at 28 red zone provinces with Bangkok being among them. However he too confirmed that those who cannot download this app may submit their travel plans.
Prime Minister’s Office spokesman Mr. Anucha Buraphachaisri confirmed that all those who have a smartphone must cooperate and download this app but those who cannot will not be found guilty of breaking the emergency decree as they are entitled to submit their travel plans at checkpoints.
They would only be considered to have violated the emergency decree if they conceal information that could lead to the spread of coronavirus.
Anucha also said people in provinces where tight coronavirus control is imposed, particular five placed under the strictest control, Samut Sakhon, Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi and Trat, may apply for travel permits to leave their province from village headmen and not just at the district office and the provincial city hall.
This is to make it more convenient for them to obtain the required document.
Regulations at the other 49 provinces depend on what the provincial authorities and the local Disease Control Committee considers appropriate.
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Top: Prime Minister’s Office spokesman Anucha talking to reporters today. Photo: Siam Rath
