The business resumption sub-committee, under the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA), will propose a plan for the relaxation of disease control measures in 54 provinces, up from the current 35.
Apisamai Srirangson, spokeswoman for the CCSA, yesterday said the sub-committee's proposal will be submitted to the administration on Monday for approval.
The sub-committee is aiming to list 54 provinces as surveillance (green) zones. These provinces include Kamphaeng Phet, Chai Nat, Nakhon Ratchasima and Nakhon Sawan, provinces currently listed as yellow (close surveillance) zones.
The number of yellow zones would decline from 17 to 14 provinces, while control (orange) zones would fall from 20 to eight provinces, if the plan is approved by the CCSA.
Under the plan, Samut Sakhon would be the only province to remain in the dark red (maximum control) zone.
Dr Apisamai said the Public Health Ministry has noticed an improvement in the Covid-19 situation since Feb 10, and felt restrictions should be relaxed.
In dark red zones, markets are allowed to open, but with a cap on the number of customers and social distancing rules, while restaurants are required to close at 9pm and not serve alcohol.
Shopping centres and department stores must close at 9pm, while daycare centres and elderly care centres are only for residents, Dr Apisamai said.
In orange zones, entertainment places can reopen, she said, but dining-in and the sale of alcohol must cease at 11pm. Musical performances are allowed but dancing is prohibited.
Also, restaurants and bars can open with social distancing measures, but the consumption of alcohol must end at 11pm, she said.
In the yellow zone, entertainment venues can open until midnight. Restaurants must observe social distancing rules and close at midnight.
Shopping centres and convenience stores can reopen but the number of participants in activities must be limited. Massage parlours can reopen with a limited number of customers.
In the surveillance zone (green zone), entertainment places can reopen, organise music performances and allow dancing with social distancing.
Dr Apisamai went on to say that everyone in Thailand -- Thais and foreigners -- will have access to quality Covid-19 vaccines in the future.
"Vaccinations will include expatriates and migrant workers. The government intends to offer equal protection," she said.
