Floods and landslides kill hundreds in AsiaーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS
Torrential downpours are battering countries across South and Southeast Asia. Let’s go to Tiraatia Kawson in our Bangkok studio for the latest. The death toll is climbing across nations pummeled by heavy rains over the past week. A cyclone swept across Sri Lanka, forcing the country to grapple with one of its worst weather disasters in recent years. Disaster management officials said Friday morning that at least 56 people were killed in landslides and flooding. The cyclone system is expected to maintain strength over the weekend, moving north along the country’s eastern coast. Indonesia has also been battered by heavy rains intensified by a separate storm. The cyclone caused severe damage to the archipelago’s western island of Sumatra. Officials said at least 174 people have been killed as of Friday evening and dozens remain missing. And in southern Thailand, extensive damage from recent flooding is becoming more visible as the water starts to recede in areas including the worst hit city of Hatai. Roads and buildings are seen covered in mud and debris with many vehicles washed up on the main street. Authorities are stepping up relief and recovery efforts. The death toll reached 145 on Friday. A major motor show kicks off on Saturday near Bangkok. Japan’s top automakers long dominant in the Thai market and their rising Chinese counterparts will showcase their latest vehicles and technologies. Thailand’s International Motor Expo brings together 42 global automakers. Japan’s giant Toyota is showcasing the first full remodel in 10 years of its bestselling pickup truck in Thailand. Visitors can see both its EV and diesel engine models. Toyota plans to manufacture the trucks in Thailand for export in Southeast Asia and Australia. China’s Chan automobile unveys unveils its lineup of new EVs developed in collaboration with other companies including telecom equipment maker Huawei. Some Chinese makers are appealing to Thai consumers with attractive campaigns. Leading Chinese EV maker BYD is temporarily reducing prices of its major models by up to about $6,200. Japanese automakers grip on the Thai market is slipping. 5 years ago, it had a nearly 90% share of the market. But with the emergence of Chinese makers, it has dipped to under 70%. Now to Myanmar, where the ruling military is gearing up for general elections next month. Many civilians have reportedly been arrested as the Hunter ramps up its crackdown on critics. Voting is set to start on December 28th. Most of the partis participating parties share close ties with the military while pro-democracy groups are excluded. The HUNA says it will prevent obstruction and disruption of the process under a law enacted in July, tightening control over speech about the poll. A local human rights group says 86 people have been arrested so far. An independent media outlet says three people were sentenced from 42 to 49 years in prison for violating the new law, including displaying anti-election posters. The military seized power in a coup in 2021, claiming that there had been fraud in previous general elections that led pro-democratic party NLD and its leader OnSuchi to a landslide victory. Since then, the military has been fighting with pro-democracy forces and armed ethnic minority groups. Voting is suspend suspended in some areas under fierce fighting. Ha leaders claim the upcoming polls are part of the process for shifting to civilian rule, but pro-democracy camps are calling on the international community not to recognize its results. And that wraps up our bulletin. I’m Traan in Bangkok.
November 28 NEWSROOM TOKYO Bangkok Live Lineup:
00:10 Floods and landslides wreak havoc in Asia
01:29 Thai motor expo unveils latest from Japan, China
02:53 Myanmar military silences critics ahead of election
More stories on Asia: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/tags/58/
Please subscribe HERE: http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSPEjw8F2nQDtmUKPFNF7_A?sub_confirmation=1